Nathan Oates

Nathan Oates is a Professor of English and Director of Undergraduate Writing Studies at Seton Hall University. His roles include teaching creative writing (primarily fiction), contemporary literature, and study abroad courses to Italy and Ireland. He holds a PhD in Creative Writing from the University of Missouri (2008) and an MA in Fiction from Johns Hopkins University (Writing Seminars program).

His research focuses on fiction writing, creative pedagogy, and contemporary literature. Notable works include the novel A Flaw in the Design (2023) and the short story collection The Empty House (2013, winner of the Spokane Prize). His stories appear in The Missouri Review, Antioch Review, and others, with recognition in Best American Mystery Stories and Pushcart Prize nominations.

Grants and fellowships include awards from the Sewanee Writers' Conference, New York State Summer Writer's Institute, and Elizabeth George Foundation. His academic writing explores themes like Joyce's influence on Carver's late style and political narratives in modern fiction.

Literary accolades include critical praise for A Flaw in the Design as a 'psychological thriller with gripping family dynamics.' He advises no formally listed students but contributes to creative writing workshops and reading series like The Dead Writers Reading Series.