Top 20 MFA Creative Writing Internships in the U.S. for Aspiring Authors
- For The Writers | Official · Authenticated & Thoughtfully Reviewed
- Dec 18, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Jul 1
For aspiring authors enrolled in an MFA in Creative Writing program, internships can serve as both résumé builders and career catalysts.
While classroom workshops sharpen your craft, creative writing internships immerse you in the real-world literary ecosystem. Whether it’s interning at a literary agency, assisting with editorial work at a publishing house, or supporting programming at a renowned writing center, these opportunities give you hands-on experience that bridges the gap between education and publication.
Writers who complete creative writing programs with internship experience report increased confidence, stronger discipline, and a clearer understanding of how the industry works. Many authors trace their first breakthroughs, such as book deals, agent connections, or publishing credits, back to internships completed during their MFA writing programs.
These internships also offer access to something just as essential: professional networks. As a student, you’re not just building your portfolio—you’re building relationships with editors, agents, and mentors who can shape your career long after the semester ends.
Whether you're seeking publishing internships for writers, literary internships, or internships for MFA students, the right experience can open doors and set your trajectory as an emerging writer.
Here are 20 of the best MFA Creative Writing internships in the U.S.—opportunities that will not only refine your skills but also help you navigate the literary world with clarity, connection, and momentum.
1. Tin House (Portland, OR)
Known for publishing award-winning literary works, Tin House offers editorial, marketing, and events management internships. Interns gain direct experience with manuscript review, publishing logistics, and planning literary events. They work closely with editors on evaluating submissions, assist the marketing team with promotional campaigns, and help coordinate literary festivals and author readings. This comprehensive internship offers insight into the inner workings of a top-tier publishing house, allowing interns to engage meaningfully with the literary community.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: Approximately 20 hours
2. Graywolf Press (Minneapolis, MN)
Graywolf Press is a nonprofit literary press offering internships in editorial, marketing, and publicity. Interns assist with manuscript evaluations, promotional campaigns, and author events. They gain experience in proofreading, crafting press releases, and managing book launches. Interns also collaborate with authors on public readings and workshops, making this a well-rounded internship ideal for those interested in literary publishing and event coordination.
Paid or Unpaid: Paid
Average Salary: Approximately $15 per hour
Average Hours per Week: 15-20 hours
3. The Paris Review (New York, NY)
This iconic literary magazine offers internships that focus on editorial and digital content production. Interns are responsible for fact-checking, article development, and social media management. They assist with managing the slush pile, evaluating story submissions, and coordinating author interviews. Additionally, interns contribute to the magazine’s digital presence by creating web-exclusive content and supporting special editorial projects.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 20 hours
4. The New Yorker (New York, NY)
The New Yorker’s editorial internships are highly competitive, offering MFA students a rare opportunity to work behind the scenes of one of the world’s most prestigious literary magazines. Interns assist in fact-checking, editing, and content development while gaining firsthand exposure to the rigorous editorial process. They participate in editorial meetings, contribute research for major features, and work alongside experienced editors on both print and digital content. This internship is ideal for aspiring writers passionate about literary journalism and long-form narrative.
Paid or Unpaid: Paid
Average Salary: Approximately $20 per hour
Average Hours per Week: 35-40 hours
5. McSweeney’s (San Francisco, CA)
This innovative publishing house offers internships in editorial, design, and marketing, making it an exciting option for creative writers interested in experimental publishing. Interns work on content development, assist in production logistics, and participate in brainstorming sessions for future publications. They gain hands-on experience with manuscript editing, creative book design, and marketing campaigns designed to promote McSweeney’s unique literary projects. With its dynamic and collaborative work culture, this internship is perfect for those eager to explore the cutting edge of literary publishing.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 15-20 hours
6. Copper Canyon Press (Port Townsend, WA)
Specializing in poetry publishing, Copper Canyon Press offers internships in editing, marketing, and nonprofit management. Interns learn about poetry-specific publishing processes, including manuscript review, marketing strategies for poetry collections, and managing author relations. They work closely with editors to evaluate submissions, assist in crafting marketing campaigns, and help organize poetry readings and literary events. This internship is ideal for MFA students passionate about poetry and nonprofit arts management.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 20 hours
7. The Kenyon Review (Gambier, OH)
MFA students interning at The Kenyon Review gain invaluable experience in literary editing, contest management, and author correspondence. Interns assist with reviewing submissions for the magazine, managing literary contests, and coordinating writing workshops. They participate in the editorial process from initial manuscript evaluation to final publication decisions. The internship also includes opportunities to engage with the literary community through readings, conferences, and workshops hosted by the publication.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 10-15 hours
8. AGNI Magazine (Boston, MA)
AGNI offers internships centered around literary magazine editing, submissions management, and production. Interns assist with evaluating submissions, providing editorial feedback, and contributing to the shaping of the publication's content. They also contribute to the production process, ensuring that issues are published on time and maintaining high editorial standards. This internship is ideal for MFA students eager to gain experience in literary publishing while working with a respected journal known for showcasing emerging and established voices.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 10-15 hours
9. Electric Literature (Remote)
Electric Literature’s remote internships provide opportunities in digital publishing, content writing, and social media strategy. Interns contribute to the development of online literary features, craft engaging social media campaigns, and assist with the logistics of digital publication. They work closely with the editorial team to brainstorm and create content that highlights emerging writers and important literary conversations. This flexible internship is ideal for tech-savvy MFA students seeking to develop expertise in digital media and literary content.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 10-15 hours
10. Poets & Writers (New York, NY)
Poets & Writers offers internships in editorial, development, and program management. Interns assist with the magazine’s publication process, content creation, and program outreach. They engage in crafting feature articles, conducting research on literary markets, and helping maintain the organization’s popular writing contests database. This role is ideal for MFA students looking to explore the publishing industry while contributing to one of the most recognized literary organizations in the U.S.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 15-20 hours
11. Catapult (New York, NY)
Catapult’s internships provide immersive experiences in book publishing, literary magazine editing, and online class administration. Interns assist in acquiring and editing manuscripts, managing content for Catapult’s literary magazine, and coordinating writing workshops. They also gain valuable insight into the business side of publishing by helping with book launches, marketing strategies, and event planning. This hands-on experience is ideal for MFA students interested in both editorial and teaching roles within the literary world.
Paid or Unpaid: Paid
Average Salary: Approximately $15 per hour
Average Hours per Week: 20-25 hours
12. Milkweed Editions (Minneapolis, MN)
As a nonprofit publisher, Milkweed Editions offers internships that cover manuscript review, book marketing, and author event coordination. Interns work closely with the editorial and marketing teams, gaining hands-on experience in evaluating submissions, managing production schedules, and crafting promotional materials for upcoming releases. They also assist with event logistics, helping to organize author tours, book launches, and public readings. This role is ideal for MFA students passionate about independent publishing and interested in the full lifecycle of book production, from manuscript acquisition to market release.
Paid or Unpaid: Paid
Average Salary: Approximately $12 per hour
Average Hours per Week: 15-20 hours
13. Random House (New York, NY)
Random House offers internships across multiple publishing divisions, including editorial, marketing, and production, making it a sought-after opportunity for MFA students.
Paid or Unpaid: Paid
Average Salary: Approximately $20 per hour
Average Hours per Week: 40 hours
14. Literary Hub (Remote)
Lit Hub offers editorial internships that allow MFA students to contribute to literary content, features, and special projects. This remote opportunity is ideal for those seeking a flexible schedule.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 10-15 hours
15. Bellevue Literary Review (New York, NY)
This literary journal, which focuses on health, illness, and the human condition, offers editorial internships where MFA students can gain experience in reviewing submissions and planning for publication.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 10-15 hours
16. The Rumpus (Remote)
The Rumpus offers remote editorial internships where MFA students contribute to content development, editorial planning, and social media outreach.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 10-15 hours
17. VIDA: Women in Literary Arts (Remote)
VIDA’s internships focus on literary activism, research, and communications, providing a unique opportunity for MFA students passionate about equity in publishing.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 10-15 hours
18. Coffee House Press (Minneapolis, MN)
Coffee House Press offers internships in publishing operations, book marketing, and manuscript review, providing a comprehensive experience in literary publishing.
Paid or Unpaid: Paid
Average Salary: Approximately $12 per hour
Average Hours per Week: 15-20 hours
19. The Southern Review (Baton Rouge, LA)
MFA students interning at The Southern Review gain experience in literary magazine production, submissions management, and editorial development.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 10-15 hours
20. Writers’ Workshop at the University of Iowa (Iowa City, IA)
The Iowa Writers’ Workshop occasionally offers internships tied to its world-renowned program, giving MFA students access to literary event planning and workshop administration.
Paid or Unpaid: Unpaid
Average Salary: N/A
Average Hours per Week: 10-15 hours
Internships provide MFA Creative Writing students with hands-on industry experience that complements their academic training. By interning at top literary organizations, students gain invaluable skills, build lasting professional networks, and increase their chances of launching successful literary careers. Consider applying to one of these prestigious programs to take your writing career to the next level.
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