After successfully completing ENG-644, students wishing to extend their advanced independent study over two semesters begin ENG-645: Advanced Independent Writing and Reading: Emphasizing the Creative Thesis Collection, the second part of the independent study. The student, who typically studies with the same mentor for ENG-644 and ENG-645, continues with the Advanced Independent Study Plan, which includes extensive assignments of original creative writing culminating in the successful completion of the creative thesis, and an individualized reading list. In addition to the work on the creative thesis, and under the guidance of the ENG-645 mentor, the student prepares a Graduation Lecture to be presented at Graduation Residency. The Independent Study plan also includes new writing to help establish a transition to the writing life after the MFA is awarded to the student. During ENG-645, students submit packets to their mentors, at scheduled intervals, containing a specified amount of material that includes new and revised work. The mentor replies to each student packet on an individual basis, providing critique and instruction to the student in a written or recorded response. Students submit other assignments throughout the course, including evaluations and an updated student curriculum vitae, which includes a bibliography of books and/or scripts read. Students participate in a virtual discussion of their creative thesis. Students serve as thesis readers for other ENG-645 students but may participate in no more than two thesis discussions other than their own.

Prerequisite courses: ENG-644 and permission of Chair or Associate Programs Director