Why Choose Our Program?
At SDSU, we believe our Creative Writing program is uniquely situated to provide writers with an exciting, informative, personalized—and affordable—path to attaining their MFA.
Inspired by Experiences
Inspired by our place in the world, the program provides a rich and diverse experience that goes beyond the classroom.
A Beautiful Location
Our campus is situated in the heart of San Diego, the site of early Californian history, and only minutes from the U.S./Mexico border.
A Global Approach to Writing
Our international approach is reflected in our course work and faculty expertise.
A History of Excellence
Established in 1989 by Poet Sandra Alcosser, SDSU became the second MFA Creative Writing program in California.
Named one of the best MFAs in the U.S. by Wiley University Services.
In the Spotlight
Erin Rodoni
Erin Rodoni is the author of three poetry collections: Body, in Good Light (2017) and A Landscape for Loss (2017, winner, the Stevens Award), and And if the Woods Carry You (2021, winner, Michael Waters Poetry Prize). She teaches at the Writing Salon in San Francisco, and lives with her husband and two young daughters in San Rafael, CA.
Living Writers' Series
The Hugh C. Hyde Living Writers' Series at SDSU is one of the longest continuously running series in the nation. The series has featured an impressive slate of award-winning authors, many of them who are alumni of our program. All of the events are free and open to the public.
Matt de la Peña
Matt de la Peña is the New York Times Bestselling, Newbery Medal-winning author of seven young adult novels (including Mexican WhiteBoy, We Were Here, and Superman: Dawnbreaker) and six picture books (including Milo Imagines the World and Last Stop on Market Street). He teaches creative writing at San Diego State University.
Take Note
Poet Sarah B. Marsh-Rebelo (‘12, English and Comparative Literature) was awarded the 2024 SDSU Alumni Awards of Distinction for the College of Arts and Letters. Sarah is a long-time supporter of the regional
art community, served as board chair for the San Diego Museum of Art, and has been
Honorary Life Director of the San Diego Opera for more than 30 years. As a passionate
supporter of the College of Arts and Letters, she hosts an annual Rebelo Scholar Tea
to celebrate scholarship recipients in SDSU’s MFA in Creative Writing Poetry program.