Applying to Study Creative Writing at UNT

The PhD in English with a concentration in Creative Writing at UNT is one of the most dynamic and rigorous programs in the country. We are committed to helping our students become accomplished writers, thoughtful scholars, and engaged teachers who are prepared for a range of careers both inside and outside academia.

Our program is unique for its dual emphasis on creative and scholarly excellence: you will develop a strong foundation in literary and critical theory while deepening your craft in fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. Students work closely with nationally and internationally recognized faculty who are dedicated to mentorship and collaboration.

We are also home to a comprehensive professionalization program. From your first semester, you will receive guidance on navigating the job market, applying for fellowships and residencies, developing competitive application materials, and preparing for careers in publishing, editing, teaching, and arts leadership.

The program fosters a lively literary community—hosting visiting writers, readings, workshops, and symposia—and offers opportunities to work on nationally recognized literary journals and series. Our students publish widely, present at major conferences, and build networks that carry them into their post-graduate careers.

UNT PhD in English & Creative Writing prepares you not just to write a dissertation, but to build a sustainable, intellectually rich writing life supported by scholarship, community, and professional success.

Program Snapshot

What You’ll Receive & Expectations

Funding / Stipend

Most PhD students are supported through teaching fellowships of 20,050 per year and university health insurance. The selective Voertman-Ardoin Fellowship, awarded to outstanding candidates, offers approximately $22,700 per.

Teaching Load

• Years 1–3: 2/2 (two courses per semester)
• Year 4: 1/1 (one course per semester)
• Students may also apply for a competitive fifth-year teaching fellowship if additional time is needed to complete the degree.

Tuition & Benefits
Fellowship support includes tuition and fees. The University’s Tuition Benefits Program typically covers most tuition for Teaching Fellows. Health insurance is required and available through the university’s student health program.

Professionalization & Alumni Success

Our alumni have gone on to a wide variety of careers in academia and beyond. Graduates hold tenure-track, visiting, and lecturer positions at colleges and universities across the country, have published books with major presses, and have appeared in top literary journals. (See a full list of our alumni placements, publications, awards, and recognition here).

Students are provided exceptional professionalization support: workshops, mentorship, help with fellowship and post-doc applications, guidance on the job market, pedagogical training, and editorial experience.

Application & Requirements

Applicants must submit the following materials by January 1 for Fall admission:

• Transcripts from undergraduate and graduate programs
• Writing sample(s):
  • For the literature track: one critical writing sample (12–20 pages)
  • For the creative writing track: the same critical writing sample plus a creative sample
    (10 pages of poetry OR 15–25 pages of fiction OR 15–25 pages of nonfiction)
• Letter of intent explaining academic and creative interests
• Three letters of recommendation
• Current CV
• TOEFL scores (for non-native speakers of English)