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About
The first MFA in the country to focus exclusively on writing for young readers, the Writing for Children & Young Adults program is a diverse and dynamic community of writers.
Program Work
Our award-winning students and faculty push boundaries, break new ground and further cultural conversation with their work. Prepare to be inspired.
View AllResidency
Experience VCFA’s low-residency model VCFA’s academic calendar is divided into two semesters per year: a summer and winter semester respectively. Each semester begins with a nine-day residency that provides a vibrant whirlwind of workshops, lectures, panels, discussions, and readings. Students, faculty, and visiting writers come together to connect and collaborate.
Mentorship & Individualized Study
Post-residency, students return home to embark on the semester’s faculty-guided independent study project, putting in at least 25 hours a week. Students stay in close contact with their advisors, who review their work monthly and provide individualized feedback.
Virtual Information Sessions
Join us to learn more about our low residency MFA programs and the application process. Each session will cover: an overview of VCFA programs, low-residency model, the application process and more. Click here to learn more
Thoughtful and engaging exchanges with my advisors and my peers were everything. Finding your community of writers who will support and inspire you is the most valuable gift.
VCFA Stories
Our students, alumnx and faculty inspire us every day with their exhibitions, publications, screenings, performances, and teaching, bringing the magic of VCFA out into the world. Discover the amazing work of our WCYA community.
View All WCYA StoriesALUMNX STORY: Nora Ericson, 2010 MFA in Writing for Children & Young Adults
FACULTY STORY: Louise Hawes
ALUMNX STORY: Julie Berry, 2008 MFA in Writing for Children & Young Adults
Laura Obuobi, 2021 MFA in WCYA
WCYA News + Events
Author Louise Hawes Named as the Next VCFA Katherine Paterson Chair
Program Blog
Check out WILD THINGS, the WCYA program’s blog, to hear directly from students, discover our award-winning faculty, and learn why you belong at VCFA.
Katherine Paterson Chair
In 2018, VCFA established the Katherine Patterson Endowed Chair & Faculty Development Fund to support the WCYA program's greatest asset: its award-winning faculty
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Our Admissions team is ready to help you begin your journey! Connect with us at our [email protected] to get started or click the link below to get started.