Stony Brook University’s MFA in Creative Writing and Literature program was the focus of a recent interview on WLIW-FM’s Heart of the East End. Robert Reeves, associate professor of creative writing and founder of the Lichtenstein Center, and Christian McLean, lecturer and MFA associate director, discussed how the program welcomes adults from various professional backgrounds who want to turn their experiences into writing.
Reeves explained that students come from diverse fields: “One [of our students] is a doctor who’s mid-career… and she has so many stories she wants to tell. We have someone who’s a senior real estate agent… [who] wants to write other things, personal essays, fiction, creative nonfiction,” he said. “They want to come to a community that will give them the best opportunity to accomplish what they want to.”
The affordability and flexibility of Stony Brook’s program were also highlighted. As a state university, it offers lower tuition compared to similar programs. Reeves noted, “We are many, many, many thousand [dollars] less than equivalent MFA programs of the same quality.” McLean added that prospective students can start by taking one class before committing further: “They can take one class and see if it makes sense for them and go from there.”
Workshops within the program emphasize building community and developing craft through generating new work in a supportive setting. Students are encouraged to experiment with their voices. Reeves said, “Art is something that you know makes you more powerful than you are. It’s something that you have to give in to, surrender to.”
The conversation also featured current student Laura Renee Tucker and her thesis—a memoir about her father, a Tuskegee Airman—which explores both family history and broader historical themes. McLean commented on its significance: “It’s capturing not only her story, but her father’s story,” he said. “And the question of who can pass on these stories, and who has the ability to…taking the time to do so is so important.” Host Gianna Volpe added: “Black history in particular is being erased every day. So stories like Laura’s and her father’s are of utmost importance. That’s American history.”
Stony Brook Southampton continues supporting writers through instruction and community engagement at its MFA in Creative Writing program. The program recently held open houses at both its Southampton campus and Manhattan Center for Creative Writing and Film in October; online information sessions are planned for November and December.
Applications for Fall 2026 admission are due January 15. The program encourages people from all backgrounds or ages interested in writing—even those wishing only to try one class—to apply.