Writing for Young Readers, MFA
Write books for young readers in a two-year, low-residency program. Study any form and genre, from picture books to young adult novels, nonfiction, graphic novels, and poetry. Work one-on-one with award-winning authors.
Invest in Your Ambitions
People who want to write for young readers aren't like everybody else. You understand how important kids' books are. And you've dreamed of writing them — maybe even since you were a child yourself. We see you. We've been where you are. And we want to help you make your dream come true.
Balance Work and Study
Our two-year, low-residency program means you don't have to move or quit your current job. You'll come to San Francisco in January and June for nine-day residencies filled with lectures, workshops, readings, and more. The rest of the time, you'll work from home, sending monthly packets of work to your advisor in exchange for rich, detailed feedback. The low-residency format asks about 25 hours a week of your time.
Level Up Your Skills
Become a better writer. Learn how to read like a writer, think about craft, and improve your writing with rigor and joy. Connect with a community of faculty, students, and industry professionals who understand the importance of books for young readers and are curious about the hows, whys, and what-ifs of storytelling. Graduate with a thesis project, a terminal degree, and a clear understanding of what you need to do next to thrive.
State Authorization
Please check our State Authorization Status List for the states and territories from which we can enroll students in specific online degree programs.
Apply Now for Summer 2026
The Summer application is open. The priority application deadline is February 15.
Who Will Your Advisor Be?
We’ve built a faculty of award-winning authors published across all categories of children’s literature. Our matching process considers your preferences, your needs, and our professional judgment. Your advisor will have no more than four students and will give you extraordinary focus.
Martha Brockenbrough
Program Director
Writing for young readers is the most important type of writing a person can do. This is where literacy begins. This is where children expand their horizons and their understanding of who they are and what it means to be alive.”
Martha Brockenbrough
Program Director