Published on: 2025-03-24

Intelligence Report: Hamline University Suddenly Announces Its Closing Its MFA Program – Minnesota Public Radio News

1. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

Hamline University has announced the closure of its Creative Writing MFA program, citing a recommendation from interim leadership and a decision by the board of trustees. The closure, effective immediately, has sparked protests from students and faculty, who argue that the program has seen increased enrollment post-pandemic. The decision has broader implications for the university’s academic offerings and community engagement.

2. Detailed Analysis

The following structured analytic techniques have been applied for this analysis:

General Analysis

The closure of the Creative Writing MFA program at Hamline University appears to be driven by administrative decisions rather than a lack of interest or enrollment. Despite claims of declining enrollment, the program reportedly experienced growth in new student numbers. The decision to sunset the program has been met with significant opposition from students and faculty, highlighting a potential disconnect between university leadership and the academic community. The elimination of the program coordinator position and the impact on the Water-Stone Review journal further emphasize the broader implications of this decision.

3. Implications and Strategic Risks

The closure of the MFA program may lead to reputational risks for Hamline University, affecting its appeal to prospective students and faculty. The decision could also impact the university’s standing in the academic community, particularly in the humanities and creative arts sectors. Additionally, the loss of the Water-Stone Review journal may diminish the university’s contributions to literary scholarship and creative writing.

4. Recommendations and Outlook

Recommendations:

• Engage in transparent communication with students and faculty to address concerns and explore alternative solutions.
• Consider forming a task force to reassess the decision and evaluate the program’s potential for restructuring or partnerships.
• Explore opportunities to integrate creative writing into other academic offerings to maintain the university’s commitment to the arts.

Outlook:

In the best-case scenario, the university could reverse the decision or find alternative ways to support creative writing, maintaining its academic diversity. In the worst-case scenario, the closure could lead to decreased enrollment and a tarnished reputation. The most likely outcome involves ongoing negotiations and potential compromises to address stakeholder concerns while aligning with institutional objectives.

5. Key Individuals and Entities

The report mentions significant individuals such as Kayla Knoll, Richard Pelster-Wiebe, Angela Pelster-Wiebe, John Brandon, Kathleen Murray, and Andy Rundquist. The decision impacts the Hamline University Board of Trustees and the Water-Stone Review journal.