10 Best MFA Programs in Memphis, TN for 2026
Memphis is home to a vibrant arts community, offering aspiring artists a range of quality MFA programs to choose from. Here are the top 10 MFA programs in Memphis for 2024 based on academics, facilities, faculty, career support and more.
1. University of Memphis – MFA in Creative Writing
The Creative Writing MFA at the University of Memphis focuses on poetry, fiction and creative nonfiction. Students work closely with distinguished faculty in small workshops to refine their writing. They also have opportunities to get involved with the River City literary magazine and the River City Writers Series.
Highlights:
- Full-tuition fellowships and assistantships available
- Opportunities to teach undergraduate creative writing courses
- Access to visiting writers through the River City Writers Series
Website: memphis.edu/english/mfa
2. Memphis College of Art – MFA in Visual Arts
This MFA in Visual Arts features concentrations in a range of mediums including painting, sculpture, printmaking, graphic design and more. Students have 24/7 access to professional studios and equipment.
Highlights:
- Emphasis on developing strong conceptual skills
- Opportunities to exhibit work on and off campus
- Study abroad options available
Website: mca.edu/mfa
3. University of Memphis – MFA in Theatre
The nationally accredited Theatre MFA program allows students to focus on areas like acting, directing, design or playwriting. They take part in mainstage and studio productions and have training opportunities at playhouses like Playhouse on the Square.
Highlights:
- Only MFA program in Tennessee focused on theatre history and dramaturgy
- Options for assistantships and scholarships
- Strong track record of graduates working in professional theatre
Website: memphis.edu/theatre/mfa
4. Memphis College of Art – MFA in Art History
This unique program combines art history studies with museum training and real-world experience. Students can tailor the program based on interests like collections management, curatorial work, museum education or conservation science.
Highlights:
- Direct involvement with exhibitions and programs at the Brooks Museum
- Teaching assistantship opportunities
- Option to complete thesis work locally or abroad
Website: mca.edu/mfa-art-history
5. Rhodes College – MFA in Creative Writing
The Creative Writing MFA at Rhodes College offers concentrations in poetry and fiction within a supportive academic environment. Students work under guidance from critically acclaimed writers-in-residence.
Highlights:
- Writers-in-residence program bringing established authors to campus
- Emphasis on one-on-one mentorship
- Strong track record of placing graduates as teachers, editors and writers
Website: rhodes.edu/creativewriting
6. University of Memphis – MFA in Art
This flexible, 60-credit visual art MFA allows students to explore painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and more before potentially specializing later. Students exhibit work locally and regionally.
Highlights:
- Graduate assistantships available
- Close mentorship from acclaimed faculty
- Professional gallery affiliation on campus
Website: memphis.edu/art/mfa-studio-art
7. University of Memphis – MFA Screenwriting
The UofM MFA concentration in Screenwriting immerses students in every aspect of writing for film and television. Students study under experienced, award-winning screenwriters and directors.
Highlights:
- Option to spend semester at partner school in Los Angeles
- Opportunities to work on shoots with MFA Film Production students
- Access to high-end digital equipment and post-production facilities
Website: memphis.edu/communication/mfa/screenwriting.php
8. Christian Brothers University – Low Residency MFA in Creative Writing
This low residency creative writing MFA focuses on poetry, fiction and nonfiction. Students work one-on-one with faculty mentors during brief, intensive residencies.
Highlights:
- Two 10-day summer residencies on the CBU campus
- Flexible pace for working professionals
- Dual emphasis on studying craft and producing creative work
Website: cbu.edu/cas/mfa-creative-writing
9. Memphis College of Art – MFA in Art Education
Designed for working art educators, this program emphasizes new approaches in the field. Students complete coursework each summer and conduct year-long action research projects in their schools and communities.
Highlights:
- Chance to implement capstone research project with students
- Focuses on social justice and culturally sustaining pedagogies
- Option to earn teaching license for some students
Website: mca.edu/mfa-art-education
10. University of Memphis – MFA Film and Video Production
This MFA concentration focuses on narrative filmmaking with emphases on directing, cinematography, editing and more. Students have access to high-end equipment and post facilities.
Highlights:
- Opportunity to gain experience on a variety of film sets
- Option to spend a semester at partner film school in Poland
- Reduced tuition and graduate assistantships available
Website: memphis.edu/communication/mfa