Is there any good reason for going for an M.F.A. in writing?

Question

If I am self-motivated and read and write a lot, would there be any value of going for an M.F.A. in writing considering it's pretty worthless in terms of getting jobs, costs loads of money, and I feel I am objective enough to improve my writing on my own?

Answer 1

Not particularly worth it.

However, if there's an MFA program that you know will help you improve your writing, then it's worth considering - but for personal reasons, not professional. And an MFA will allow you to teach at the community college level, so there is that if you're interested.

The exception is the elite MFA programs. If you can get into one of the top programs, you'll make connections with people who can help your career. Still, there is no guarantee.

Answer 2

Truthfully, I don't think there's all that much value in getting a Masters for any reason other than if it's required to stay licensed (example - teachers) or if it's something like an M.B.A., which tends to stand out in the business world.

I personally have a BA in English and that's been more than enough to allow me to hold a number of writing-oriented jobs over the almost 30 years I've been out of college. No one has ever denied me a job because I didn't go on to grad school after getting my BA. If you've already got that, then you should be fine.