After successfully participating in the ENG-642 residency, students wishing to extend their advanced independent study over two semesters begin ENG-644: Advanced Independent Writing and Reading: Emphasizing the Creative Thesis Collection, the first part of the independent study. The student and assigned faculty mentor create an 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 to be completed during ENG-644 and ENG-645, the second part of the advanced independent study. The student typically studies with the same mentor for ENG-644 and ENG-645.

In addition to the work on the creative thesis, and under the guidance of the ENG-644 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 the independent study, 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. After the completion of ENG-644, students enter ENG-645 to finish the second part of their advanced independent study.

Prerequisite courses: ENG-642 or equivalent and permission of Chair or Associate Programs Director