Deanna Said:

What is the value of a MA or an MFA in Creative Writing?

We Answered:

If you're going to pursue an academic degree for creative writing but are doing it only "partially for [your] own benefit," you might want to think twice.

I have an MFA in creative writing from the Iowa Writers' Workshop. It hasn't made me millions, or even thousands ... but I didn't pursue the degree in order to get wealthy. That is, "marketable value" wasn't an issue--except for something to laugh about. But you say you are interested in creative nonfiction, which may have more money-making potential than poetry.

Plenty of nonfiction writers make money. I'm sure you know this. And they fall into different categories: Those who are in it for the cash and prestige vs. those who are in it because they would write anyways, paid or unpaid.

I just personally get a little edgy when people talk about "career moves" and "marketable value" when discussing creative pursuits, so I'm a little biased that way. I mean, I imagine Vincent Van Gogh sitting around deliberating on his financial portfolio's prospects before deciding to become a painter. In many cases, it just doesn't work that way. Painting decided to use Vincent Van Gogh, if you know what I mean. In other words, if you are an artist--if it has decided you, and not vice versa--then thinking about the dollar payoff is a little goofy.

But anyway, an MFA doesn't have much marketable value, unless you want to teach. But, you could learn plenty in grad school that would improve your writing, which could increase your chances of publications and book deals and grants and such.

The short answer--after this confusing long wind--is: It's a gamble either way. Even if you are talented, you could find your work not being accepted for one reason or another. I wouldn't pursue an MFA in order to get rich. Go to business school or something. The odds are better.