From virtual to local, workshop to MFA: there’s a creative writing program for everyone.

You’re reading this because you are a poet. It’s important to acknowledge this up front, since poets are often experts in imposter syndrome. Maybe you were waiting for someone else to confirm it, so I’m telling you: you are a poet. 

Hello, poet! It sounds like you’re looking for the best poetry courses, workshops, and programs to help you hone your craft. That’s an excellent goal and I’m happy to support it. In this post, we’ll take a look at:

• A few questions to help you determine what type of poetry or creative writing program you want

• Poetry programs that offer degrees, and

• Non-degree poetry and creative writing programs, classes, and workshops

What Kind of Poetry Writing Program Is Right for You? 

These days, there are untold poetry workshops and creative writing programs to choose from. What a joyful circumstance! And also seriously overwhelming. Identifying the criteria that support your unique needs and preferences will guide you to the option that best suits you. 

For example, which schools or programs are local to you and how much time can you spend on-campus? Or, maybe you need fully online poetry classes. You should also consider whether you’d prefer a handful of one-off workshops, a series, a mentorship model, or potentially a multi-year program.

Workshops will be less time-intensive, cultivate meaningful learning experiences, and connect you with other writers; longer-term programs tend to create longer-lasting connections with more in-depth support, feedback, and mentorship.

Finally, you’ll have to decide whether or not you need a degree. If you plan to teach at a university level— in a tenured or adjunct role— an MFA will likely be required. If not, then you may not need the credential at all. Publishing a poetry manuscript or getting poems accepted at lit mags doesn’t require a degree. Choosing a non-degree program can offer more flexibility, and potential cost savings, too. 

Best Poetry and Creative Writing Degree Programs

If you want or need a bona fide credential, this brief list will introduce you to a few outstanding options. It’s important to note that universities typically offer an MFA in creative writing or English, and enrollees then choose poetry as a concentration (in case you ran into trouble searching for “MFA in Poetry”). 

In no particular order:

1. University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop

The University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop has a distinguished reputation and an impressive list of graduates. It’s a full residency program, so only apply if you’re ready to spend some serious time in the Hawkeye State. You don’t need to have GRE scores, but you do need to have a manuscript ready at the time of application.

2. Helen Zell Writers Program at the University of Michigan 

This is a two year, fully-funded program with excellent credentials. Competition is fierce and there are no virtual poetry writing classes, but the cost-savings of a fully-funded program— along with the outcomes and experience— make it worthy of consideration. 

3. Vermont College of Fine Arts 

For a low-residency, virtual option, consider the MFA program at Vermont College of Fine Arts. Their impactful, individualized program can work well for adults with other important commitments (i.e. jobs and families). They have a great list of visiting writers, too.  

4. University of New Orleans

This is another low-residency option, which means you won’t get to eat beignets while you learn (unless you make them at home). This five-semester program aims to create a life-long writing community, and introduce poets from the global community to a variety of teachers and styles.

Best Poetry Workshops and Creative Writing Non-Degree Programs

If you’re like me, you may want to write and publish poetry without the need for an MFA. This is often more flexible and accessible, and there are new options added all the time. Here are just a few to peruse.

1. Gotham Writers Workshop

Gotham has been offering creative writing workshops since 1993. In 2025, they boast a robust mix of online and in-person, synchronous and asynchronous offerings. Here’s a quote from their homepage:

“This was the best course I have ever taken and I have BA, MA, and PhD degrees from Ivy League schools.” —Cary Bell

If you thought a non-degree course wouldn’t suffice, let this change your mind. Workshops can be on the expensive side—click the “enroll” button next to an offering to get a sense of tuition costs. 

2. Lighthouse Writers Poetry Collective

This adult education group is specifically focused on poetry manuscript development, so look into it if you’re ready to polish up a book for publication. Well beyond individual workshops, they refer to the program as “poetry immersion,” which stirs my language acquisition brain. Sounds like writers will be fluent in poetry by the end. 

The program lasts for one year and only 12 poets are admitted to each cohort. 

3. Small Presses and Local Writing Groups

I’m kind of cheating with this one, because it encompasses a variety of options. Many small presses host their own topic-specific workshops led by poets (either virtually or in-person). Consider Button Poetry and Black Lawrence Press, but also check with your favorite press and see if they have a teaching arm. These workshops can be a starting place, or an enhancement to other practices and curricula. I join them whenever I can. 

Also, look into your local cultural or arts council to learn about writing groups in your area. These can be an ideal option for those in-person types who don’t want to relocate or travel for school. 

4. PocketMFA

I saved the best for last. PocketMFA straddles the line between degree and non-degree writing programs. It offers an intense and rigorous 10-week schedule of feedback and writing that includes direct classroom instruction, peer workshopping, and one-on-one mentorship. Participants who finish in good standing gain life-long access to all the services and community features that makes PocketMFA the premiere home of working writers. 

PocketMFA pairs a significant but approachable model with relatively affordable tuition, offering the ideal blend of accessibility and impact. 

If you’re not sure whether PocketMFA might be the best fit for you, try their Writer Quiz, explore their FAQ page, and don’t hesitate to reach out. There are real, responsive people who truly care about your success. And if you’re a poet considering the program when Grant Chemidlin is mentoring, well, lucky you— there’s no question that you’ve found the best place.