Every summer, the MFA in Creative Writing program at the University of St. Thomas-Houston hosts the Summer Writers Institute: a three-day immersive program in the Catholic literary tradition. This year the Summer Writers Institute is July 6-8. This event is open to the public.  Participants must be 18+, submit an application, and be accepted into the program. 
 
During this time, participants will meet at UST and hear from distinguished writers of poetry and fiction, and engage in seminars on art and beauty, Catholicism and literature, and the craft of writing. They will also get counsel and help with their own work in lively creative writing workshops.

Between the evening public readings with masters of the art, the intense seminars and workshops, and the good company at meals, participants will experience that most elusive thing: a literary community intended to deepen and strengthen their own work while also welcoming them into the great literary and cultural tradition of the Church.

Application Process

To apply, click here to submit (as a single .pdf document) a letter explaining why you wish to attend the Summer Writers Institute and a portfolio of either 4-5 poems or one short story or novel excerpt (20 pages maximum). 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with an absolute deadline of April 20. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age by start of the Institute. 

University of St. Thomas will cover the cost of participants’ tuition, meals and receptions.  Participants are responsible for housing and travel to campus. Payment for on-campus housing is due in full by June 1. Accepted students are eligible for affordable (single or double/shared) on-campus housing beginning the morning of July 5 and departing the morning of July 9.

For more information or to apply go to www.stthom.edu/SLS.