September 2025
All successful applicants who take up their place with us in September will be entered into our competition to have a consultation with Annabel White , an agent at top London literary agency Curtis Brown.
So make sure the creative work you submit with your application is your very best – it might win you a meeting with a literary agent.
As part of Kingston School of Art , students on this course benefit from joining a creative community where collaborative working and critical practice are encouraged.
Our workshops and studios are open to all disciplines, enabling students and staff to work together, share ideas and explore multi-disciplinary making.
In this video, one of our creative writing alumna and a current student discuss why they chose the course, what they enjoyed about it and why they'd recommend it to future applicants.
You'll attend writing workshops, examine literary genre and texts, take a module to prepare you for the world of publishing, and write a 15,000-word dissertation on a topic of your choice in the first year of the course. In the second year, you will progress to smaller group writing workshops. The extensive one-to-one supervision for the dissertation leading to the MFA (no less than 40,000 words) will be provided by one of the course's permanent staff, one of our distinguished professors.
MFA students need to complete all four MA modules (120 credits) before they can progress to the MFA (second) year. The MFA dissertation has 120 credits. The option modules and dissertation give you the chance to further specialise and pursue an area of interest in depth.
Mfa dissertation.
120 credits
This module provides students with one-to-one supervision over an extended period of time (approximately one year for full time students and two years for part time students). The module is assessed in two ways: firstly, by a creative dissertation of 40,000 words that may take the form of a single sustained piece of writing or a collection of pieces from a suitable range of genres; and secondly, by a critical reading log of approximately 4,500 words.
This module offers a regular and intensive review of your writing in one of the following genres: poetry, crime writing, prose fiction, biography, drama, scriptwriting or writing for children. You will be advised on how to strengthen your knowledge of the codes and conventions of your chosen genre to produce a substantial piece or collection of work that will reflect your knowledge of and engagement with your chosen genre. You will apply detailed feedback on your work to your writing as well as using your increased knowledge of your chosen genre to make your writing more effective. These elements will help you improve the key transferable skills of analysis and implementation that will feed forward into your dissertation module and into all analytical/practical tasks you subsequently undertake.
This module provides the opportunity to examine ways in which reading is essential to writing practice and teaches you to apply literary techniques and strategies from contemporary fiction, life writing and poetry texts to your own work. You will develop the concept of 'reading as a writer' in order to explore how contemporary concerns are brought to the fore by artistic strategies, and examine how an understanding of these can provide models for your own creative practice. You will submit work including a reflective reading journal as well as a creative piece in a genre of your choice.
The module is designed to introduce students to some issues of critical and literary theory. The module is also designed to make students more aware of how their work impacts upon wider literary, cultural, political and philosophical issues. Awareness of these theories and of some of the issues surrounding the production and reception of literary texts will stimulate them, encouraging creative and conceptual thinking. The module will explore debates about literature and the practice of creative writing through readings of essays and texts that are relevant to criticism and theory. The academic component of the assessment will support the creative work with the objective that students will also have to demonstrate critical, academic, analytical skills.
In this module you will present and discuss your own and each other's work in a weekly workshop. The draft work presented may include several genres and forms, such as crime writing, fantasy fiction, children's literature, historical fiction, science fiction, romance and autobiography. Practical criticism of student writing will be accompanied by discussion of the scope or constraints of the various genres, as well as the implications of particular forms. Attention will be paid to the transferable components of good writing: appropriate use of language, narrative pace, dialogue, expression, characterisation and mood.
Typical offer.
A 2:2 or above honours degree, or equivalent, in creative writing, English literature, literature and language, drama or theatre studies or a humanities subject.
All non-UK applicants must meet our English language requirements. For this course it is Academic IELTS of 6.5 overall, with 5.5 in all elements. Please make sure you read our full guidance about English language requirements , which includes details of other qualifications we'll consider.
Applicants from one of the recognised majority English speaking countries (MESCs) do not need to meet these requirements.
You will find more information on country specific entry requirements in the International section of our website.
Find your country:
Book-length creative dissertation; critical reading log of approximately 4,500 words.
When not attending timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. This typically involves reading and analysing articles, regulations, policy documents and key texts, documenting individual projects, preparing coursework assignments and completing your PEDRs, etc.
Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the University's online virtual learning platform.
At Kingston University, we know that postgraduate students have particular needs and therefore we have a range of support available to help you during your time here.
A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.
One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 180 credits across a year (typical for a postgraduate course) would equate to 1,800 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.
The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.
Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded.
Assessment typically comprises exams (e.g. test or exam), practical (e.g. presentations, performance) and coursework (e.g. essays, reports, self-assessment, portfolios, dissertation).
The approximate percentage for how you will be assessed on this course is as follows, though depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose:
The MFA dissertation is a 45,000-word creative project plus a 4,500-word critical essay.
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
To give you an indication of class sizes, this course normally enrols 10-12 students and lecture sizes are normally 8-15. However, this can vary by module and academic year.
Year 1: 7% of your time is spent in timetabled learning and teaching activity.
Contact hours may vary depending on your modules.
As a student on this course, you will benefit from a lively study environment, thanks to the wide range of postgraduate courses on offer. The combination of academics and practitioners makes it a unique environment in which to further your studies and your career.
The University provides a vibrant and forward-thinking environment for study with:
Postgraduate students may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader.
Course director.
Fees for this course, 2025/26 fees for this course, home 2025/26.
Home 2024/25.
Home 2023/24.
This is a two year full time course with the published full time fee payable in each year of study.
If you start your second year straight after Year 1, you will pay the same fee for both years.
If you take a break before starting your second year, or if you repeat modules from Year 1 in Year 2, the fee for your second year may increase.
If you are a UK student, resident in England and are aged under the age of 60, you will be able to apply for a loan to study for a postgraduate degree. For more information, read the postgraduate loan information on the government's website .
Kingston University offers a range of postgraduate scholarships, including:
If you are an international student, find out more about scholarships and bursaries .
We also offer the following discounts for Kingston University alumni:
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs that are not covered by tuition fees which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, access to shared IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees.
Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.
Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. You may prefer to buy your own copy of key textbooks, this can cost between £50 and £250 per year.
There are open-access networked computers available across the University, plus laptops available to loan . You may find it useful to have your own PC, laptop or tablet which you can use around campus and in halls of residences. Free WiFi is available on each of the campuses. You may wish to purchase your own computer, which can cost £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
In the majority of cases written coursework can be submitted online. There may be instances when you will be required to submit work in a printed format. Printing, binding and photocopying costs are not included in your tuition fees, this may cost up to £100 per year.
Travel costs are not included in your tuition fees but we do have a free intersite bus service which links the campuses, Surbiton train station, Kingston upon Thames train station, Norbiton train station and halls of residence.
There is a wide range of facilities at our Penrhyn Road campus, where this course is based. You will have access to a modern environment with the latest equipment, including the Learning Resources Centre. This offers:
Kingston University has two major archives relating to Iris Murdoch, a significant philosopher and one of the 20th century's greatest novelists. These archives currently comprise:
Kingston is just a 30-minute train journey from central London. Here you can access a wealth of additional libraries and archives, including the British Library.
Former graduates have achieved multi-book publishing deals or gone on to work in the publishing industry; others have progressed in careers in translating, writing, journalism, advertising and film.
Research in English literature and creative writing at Kingston University covers the following areas:
It focuses around the following research initiatives:
We also hold regular seminars and host presentations by visiting speakers.
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Course changes explained .
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
Kingston University , Holmwood House, Grove Crescent, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE . Tel: +44 (0)20 8417 9000
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Discover more about this subject area
Year of entry: 2025
We normally expect students to have a First or Upper Second class honours degree or its overseas equivalent in a humanities-based subject area.
Full entry requirements
Full-time | Part-time | Full-time distance learning | Part-time distance learning | |
---|---|---|---|---|
MA | Y | Y | N | N |
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Fees for entry in 2025 have not yet been set. For reference, the fees for the academic year beginning September 2024 were as follows:
Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.
The fees quoted above will be fully inclusive for the course tuition, administration and computational costs during your studies.
All fees for entry will be subject to yearly review and incremental rises per annum are also likely over the duration of courses lasting more than a year for UK/EU students (fees are typically fixed for International students, for the course duration at the year of entry). For general fees information please visit: postgraduate fees . Always contact the department if you are unsure which fee applies to your qualification award and method of attendance.
Self-funded international applicants for this course will be required to pay a deposit of £1000 towards their tuition fees before a confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) is issued. This deposit will only be refunded if immigration permission is refused. We will notify you about how and when to make this payment.
All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).
Each year the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures offer a number of School awards and Subject-specific bursaries (the values of which are usually set at Home/EU fees level), open to both Home/EU and international students. The deadline for these is early February each year. Details of all funding opportunities, including deadlines, eligibility and how to apply, can be found on the School's funding page where you can also find details of the Government Postgraduate Loan Scheme.
See also the University's postgraduate funding database to see if you are eligible for any other funding opportunities.
For University of Manchester graduates, the Manchester Alumni Bursary offers a £3,000 reduction in tuition fees to University of Manchester alumni who achieved a 1st within the last three years and are progressing to a postgraduate taught masters course.
The Manchester Master's Bursary is a University-wide scheme that offers 100 bursaries worth £3,000 in funding for students from underrepresented groups.
See: About us
Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.
The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .
You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .
Qualification(s) available: ma.
MA Creative Writing and the Writing Industries allows graduates to refine and apply their writing skills in today’s context, and gain a comprehensive knowledge of the writing industries, including publishing pathways, professional practices, and cultural communications.
Postgraduate study in English at Loughborough University is for graduates who aspire to create and interpret the literary cultures of the 21st century. Our courses offer an inclusive and practical approach to textual study and expression, enabling you to enhance your understanding and creation of contemporary writing through peer learning and hands-on projects.
You will be supported to organise and host a literary festival, contributing to the modern literary scene, and join a vibrant community of scholars and experts on campus who will support you in pursuing yourintellectual goals, whether academic, cultural or commercial.
The Creative Writing and the Writing Industries master's programme includes core creative writing modules alongside professional development: you will learn how these things relate to each other in the case of each individual; their writing, skills and aspirations. There are workshops on a range of genres in fiction, creative non-fiction and poetry, as well as sessions on how to plan, structure and edit completed work in your chosen form. You will also learn about the role of writers in a variety of settings, including the Heritage Sector, community arts and events. The course also includes training on research skills, including accessing information from a range of sources, which are key to postgraduate study, writing the dissertation, and working as a writer.
Our MA in Creative Writing and the Writing Industries is for students who aspire to gain the skills and knowledge that unlock careers in a wide range of sectors, including roles in the writing industries, arts and heritage, events management, fundraising, publishing and teaching. The course is suitable for students who have studied creative writing, but is also open to individuals who can demonstrate a track record of writing and engagement with developing their craft.
The MA is taught by lecturers with a combination of profiles, including industry experience, practicing writers and academic experts. Students have the opportunity to try out new genres, work on longer writing projects, and co-organise a literary festival. The programme is therefore ideal for students wanting to develop as writers whilst gaining key experience and transferrable skills in related sectors.
Why you should study this degree.
The MA takes a highly practical approach to writing and working as a writer.
You will have space to explore how you operate as a writer, you will have friendly and approachable lecturers who know what they’re talking about, and you will undoubtedly develop close bonds with your course mates.
I have felt fully supported, in and out of lectures, by members of the department who have helped me to shape my work and are genuinely passionate about helping you to further your research interests
I have got extensive help and support in my work from my lecturers, including detailed feedback and helpful one on one tutorials. I have also got counselling services from the University.
The following information is intended as an example only and is typically based on module information for the 2024/25 year of entry. Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes. Updated Programme and Module Specifications are made available ahead of each academic year. Please also see Terms and Conditions of Study for more information.
Our Creative Writing and the Writing Industries MA is designed to help you develop your writing skills in a range of different genres and give you the practical knowledge needed to build a successful career in the industry.
Resources for advanced research (15 credits).
The module aims to introduce students to a range of different research methods; develop their research skills to Master's level; and enhance their library skills. It also aims to introduce them to different ways of engaging in research cultures appropriate to the focus of their studies; enable them to develop a research profile; understand ethics approval; and gain skills in the presentation of their research. The module prepares students for the Dissertation module and aims to provide them with skills useful for disseminating the results of their dissertation after they graduate.
The module will provide comprehensive knowledge of a range of commercially popular writing genres in which our teaching team have experience and expertise. Students will examine key texts in these genres and consider the professional activities undertaken by their authors, such as membership of specialist writers associations, and be supported to establish themselves in these communities. This will enable them to produce and peer-critique original writing in commercial genres, and to evaluate routes to digital and traditional publication.
The aim of this module is to introduce students to the modes of writing used to interpret for contemporary audiences matters related to heritage and culture. This will include historical novels, memoirs, non-fiction and public-facing information and reviews. We will consider what we can learn about contemporary society from the way these topics are being written about in contemporary (post 2000) texts.
The module will consider how writers produce full-length pieces of creative work, routes to publication and the professional contexts in which contemporary writers work. This will include material that is specific to the development of writers' own profiles in terms of planning, writing editing and moving towards publication/performance, but will also relate to other aspects of professional practice such as working in educational contexts, running workshops, applying for funding and developing an online profile. Skills in these areas will be developed through group work, presentations and research. In coursework, students will demonstrate the development of their own creative work, as well possible outlets for their writing, develop areas of professional activity and develop a coherent view of the relationship between their profile as writers and the writing industries.
On this collaborative, project-based module, students will collectively plan, curate, promote, and hold a modest literary festival at the end of semester two, open to the public and the Loughborough University community. This will involve developing and utilising practical skills in terms of event planning and organisation, logistics and scheduling, and marketing and promotion. Intellectual and literary discussions will inform decisions over invitee authors, the design, tone, and theme of the festival, considerations of representation and equality, and the drafting of interview questions and introductory speeches. Collaboration with LU Arts is possible and the module will also be an opportunity to showcase creative writing by students.
The aim of this module is to explore forms of literary, cinematic and other cultural production that have emerged in the United States during the particularly fraught era of the twenty-first century.
Dissertation (60 credits).
The module will give students the opportunity to develop a significant, sustained body of writing informed by advanced research skills. Students will use research methods learned in Resources for Advanced Research (semester 1) to conduct research into an aspect of their literary-critical or creative work, and deploy their findings in the subsequent writing. Students will have the opportunity to work one-to-one with a specialist in their field over six tutorials.
The module will give students the opportunity to develop a project that relates to their skill-set and aspiration, and building on the professional development work done on The Writer and the Writing Industries module.
How you'll be assessed.
You’ll be assessed on your creative writing, and how it develops, as well as how you develop your profile and skill-set as a writer. This will include presentations and readings as well as evidence of research and how you make use of it.
Each module will be taught through workshops and seminars. There will also be field trips to heritage sites, group feedback sessions and one-to-one tutorials to help you develop your work.
As part of the 'Literary Festival Management' module, students collaborate with LU Arts to hold a literary festival to a professional standard which is open to the public and the Loughborough University community. This involves developing and utilising practical skills in terms of event planning and organisation, including selecting visiting authors and other speakers; organising panels; contacting publishers; and marketing. The module will also be an opportunity to showcase creative writing by students.
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.
Second-class degree (2:2 / 55%) or above in a relevant subject (applicants with other equivalent experience who have a track record of writing, but a lower class or less relevant degree are encouraged to apply). Personal statement of not more than 300 words, and a portfolio of creative writing in any form or genre, of not more than 3,000 words.
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Masters | 95% | 85% | 70% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Diplomë e Nivelit të Pare (First Level (University) Diploma (from 2010) | 9.5 | 8.5 | 8 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Licence (4 year) / Diplome d'Inginieur d'Etat / Diplôme d'Etudes Supérieures | 16 | 14 | 12 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Licenciatura/ Licenciado (4 year) | 8.5 | 7.5 | 6.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bakalavri Kochum required but typically a Magistrosi Kochum | 90% or 3.9 | 80% or 3.5 | 70% or 3.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Honours degree (AQF level 8) | First Class, 80% | Upper Second, 70%, H2A | Lower Second, 60%, H2B |
Ordinary degree - AQF Level 7 pass (mark 46 or 50) | High Distinction (80% or 85%) | Distinction (75% or 80%) | Distinction (70% or 75%) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Degree / Diplomstudium / Fachhochschuldiplom (Diplom (FH)) | A (or 1.5) mit Auszeichnungbestanden | 60% / B / (or 2) | 60% / B / (or 2) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bakalavr Diplomu/ Diplomu (Specialist Diploma) | 4.5 or 90% | 4 or 80% | 3.5 or 70% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Degree from University of the West Indies only | 1st (GPA 3.6) | 2:1 (GPA 3.0) | 2:2 (GPA 2.5) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
GPA 4.0 scale | 3.5 | 3.0 | 2.8 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4 year Bachelor of Science in Engineering (IEB and BAETE accredited courses only) | 1st (70%) / 3.5 | 2nd (60%) / 3.0 | 2nd (55%) / 2.75 |
Masters (1-2 years) following a 3 or 4 year degree | 80% / 4.0 | 65% / 3.25 | 50% / 2.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
University of the West Indies, Honours degree | 1st (GPA 3.6) | 2:1 (GPA 3.0) | 2:2 (GPA 2.5) |
Barbados Community College | 1st or GPA 3.75 | 2:1 or GPA 3.5 | 2:2 or GPA 3.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Specialist Diploma (5Yr) | 9 | 7 | 5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bachelor degree/Licenciaat/Licencie | 80% or 17 | 70% or 14 | 60% or 12 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Degree from University of the West Indies only | 1st (GPA 3.6) | 2:1 (GPA 3.0) | 2:2 (GPA 2.5) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Maitrise | 18 | 15 or Bien | 12 or Assez Bien |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
A Licenciado, 4 years Private (public/private) | 85/78 | 75/66 | 67/55 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Diploma Visokog Obrazovanja / Diplomirani | 10 | 9 | 8 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Master's degree | A or 80% | B or 70% | C or 60% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Brazil - 4 yr Bacharel or Licenciado/Licenciatura or Título Profissional | 8.5 | 7.5 | 6.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Brunei | First | Upper Second (60%/B/3.1) | Lower Second (50% or C or 2.5) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
5 yr Diploma za Zavarsheno Visshe Obrazovanie (Diploma of Completed Higher Education) | 6 | 5 | 4 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Masters or Diplôme d'Études Approfondies or Diplôme Ingénieur (professional title) | 18 | 15/20 (Bien) | 12.5/20 (Assez Bien) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Masters | 80% or B+ or 3.5 | 70% or B or 3.0 | 60% or C+ or 2.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bachelor degree or Diplome d'Etudes Superiures de Commerce or Diplome d'Ingenieur or Diplôme d'Ingénieur de Conception or a Maitrise, 4 year Licence or Master 1 (M1) | 1st / 3.6 or 15/Tres Bien | 2:1 / GPA 3.0 or 14 / Bien | 2:2 / GPA 2.5 or 12.5/ Assez Bien |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
GPA 4.0/Percentage | 3.7/85% | 3.3/75% | 2.7/68% |
Out of 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
Out of 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Grado de Licenciado / Título (Profesional) de [subject area] (4 years) | 6 | 5.5 | 5 |
Students are required to have a bachelor degree (4 years) for entry to a postgraduate programme. The University uses the Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities to identify the required final mark, as outlined on the table below:
First class (70%) | Mid 2:1 (65%) | 2:1 (60%) | Mid 2:2 (55%) | 2:2 (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Shanghai Rank Top 250 | 83% | 79% | 75% | 73% | 70% |
Shanghai Rank 251-500 | 88% | 84% | 80% | 78% | 75% |
Shanghai Rank 501+ | 92% | 87% | 84% | 82% | 80% |
The University will consider students from Affiliated Colleges in the following way:
Applicants from colleges affiliated to universities in the top 250 Shanghai rankings will be considered if they have achieved or are likely to achieve final marks of 75%-84%.
Applicants from colleges affiliated to universities which are 251-500 in the Shanghai rankings will be considered if they have achieved or are likely to achieve final marks of 80%-87%.
Applicants from colleges affiliated to universities which are above 500 in the Shanghai rankings will be considered as follows:
Applicants from a small number of Chinese universities that specialise in business, management, finance or creative arts will be given special consideration by the University. The full list of these universities and the Shanghai band under which they will be considered can be found below:
*Special consideration for programmes in School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences and Institute for Sport Business only.
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Licenciado / Título de [subject area] | 4.5 | 3.75 | 3.2 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Licenciado | 9 | 8 or 80 | 7 or 75 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Baccalaureus / Prvostupnik | 4.5 | 3.8 | 3.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4-year Titulo de Licenciado / Licenciatura | 5 | 4 | 3 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Cyprus | 8.5 | 7.0 | 6.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bakalár (after 2001) 6 yr integrated Magistr | 1 | 1.5 | 2 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
5 year Candidatus/Candidata Magisterii or Bachelor degree (7 point scale) | 12 | 10 | 7 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4 year Licenciado or Título de [subject area] | 3.8 | Magna Cum Laude or 3.5 or 85% | Cum Laude or 3.2 or 82% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Título de Licenciado / Título de [subject area] | 8.5 / 85% | 8 / 80% | 7 / 70% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Egypt | 3.5 | 3.2 | 2.8 |
Universities only | BA 90%, BSc 85% | BA 80%, BSc 75% | BA 65%, BSc 65% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
5 year Licenciado, Título de Ingeniero/Arquitecto | 8.5, 85% | 7.5, 75% or Muy Bueno | 6.5, 65% or Bueno |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bakalaureusekraad or Magister or Magistrikraad | 5 or 91% or A | 4 or 81% or B | 3 or 71% or C |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Master's | A/GPA 4.0 | A/GPA 3.5 | B/GPA 2.8 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Kandidaattii/Kandidat or the Maisteri/Magister | 3 (out of 3) or 4.5 (out of 5) | 2 (out of 3) or 3 (out of 5) | 1 (out of 3) or 2.5 (out of 5) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Licence (3 years)/ Maitrise/ Diplôme d'Ingénieur | 14 | 13 | 11 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4-year degree (% = new system) | 5 (95%) | 4.0 (85%) | 3.5 (75%) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
German Bachelor/ Diplom, Magister Artium / Zeugnis über den Zweiten Abschnitt der Ärztlichen Prüfung | 1.5 | 2.5 | 3.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Ghana | First | Upper second/60% | Lower second/50% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Universities | 8.5 | 7.0 | 6 |
TEI and non-University Institutions | 8.5 | 7 | 6.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Degree from University of West Indies - classification | 1st , 70% (GPA 3.6) | 2:1, 60% (GPA 3.00) | 2:2, 50% (GPA 2.5) |
Degree from University of West Indies - grade / percentage | A | B / 75% | C / 55% |
Degree from University of West Indies - GPA | 3.6 | 3.0 | 2.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Liceniado / Titulo de (subject area) - 4 years | 90% (public university) / 95% (private university) | 80% (public university) / 85% (private university) | 60% (public university) / 70% (private university) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Master's | GPA 4 | GPA 3.5 | 3.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Título de Licenciado / Grado Académico de Licenciatura (4 year degree) - GPA out of 5 | GPA 5 or 90% | GPA 4 or 80% | GPA 3.5 or 70% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
1st or 3.5/4 | 2:1or 3/4 | 2:2 or 2.5/4 | 2.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Alapfokozt or Egyetemi Oklevel / Bachelor | 4.5 | 3.5 | 3 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Baccalaurreatus degree or Kandidatsprof/Candidatus Mag | 8.5 | 7.5 | 6.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Institutions listed on the | 65% (First) | 60% (First) | 55% (Upper second) |
All other Indian institutions | 70% (First with distinction) | 65% (First) | 60% (First) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Sarjana I (S1) from accredited Universities | 3.3 | 3.0 | 2.8 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Iran | 17 | 15 | 13 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Iraq | 80% | 75% | 70% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Republic of Ireland | First (70%) | Upper second (60%) | Lower second (50%) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
3 yr Bachelor Degree | 90% | 80% | 70% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Diploma di Laurea | 109/110 | 100/110 | 90/110 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
2 year Master's degree | 5 or 85% | 5 or 75% | 4.5 or 65% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4-year Bachelor Honours (post 2008) or Masters | 80% or A | 70% or B | 60% or C |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Master's (after 3 year bachelor degree) | 80% or 3.7 GPA | 65% or 3.3 GPA | 60% or 3.0 GPA |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Netherlands | 8 | 7 | 6 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4 Year Honours degree (480 credits) - Level 8 | First (7.0) | Upper Second (6.0) | Lower Second (4.0) |
3 Year degree (360 credits) - Level 7 | A+ (9.0) | A- (7.0) | B+ (6.0) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Licenciatura (4 year) | 90% | 80% | 70% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
7 point Scale | 6 | 5 | 3.0 (on 5 point scale) |
5 point scale | 4.5 | 3.8 | 3.5 |
4 point scale | 3.5 | 3 | 2.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Norway | A / 1.8 | B / 2.3 | C / 3.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
GPA 4.0 scale | 3.5 | 3.0 | 2.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4 Year degree only (the higher of the 2 options) | A- or GPA 3.7 | B or GPA 3.0 | C+ or GPA 2.6 |
2 or 3 year Bachelor plus Masters | 1st (60%) plus GPA 3.7 | 2nd (55%) plus GPA 3.0 | 2nd (50%) plus GPA 2.6 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bachelor (4-years) | (85%) 3.5 | (80%) 3.0 | (70%) 2.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4 Year Licenciado / Título de [subject area] | 91 (A) | 81 (B) | 71 (C) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bachelor (Honours) Degree | 1st | 2:1 | 2:2 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4 Year Título de Licenciado / Título de [subject area] | 4.5 (85%) | 4 (80%) | 3.5 (75%) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4 Year Título de Licenciado / Título de [subject area] | 14 | 13 | 12 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Degree from prestigious state universities or Centres of Excellence (COE) | Summa Cum Laude 4.0 / 96% / 1.0 | Magna cum Laude 3.5 / 92% / 1.5 | Cum Laude 3.0 / 87%/ 2.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bachelor Degree (post 2003) Magister (pre- 2003) | 5 | 4.5 | 4 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) or Licenciado | 18 | 16 | 14 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Diploma de Licenta/ Diploma de Inginer | 9 | 8 | 7 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bakalavr/Specialist Diploma/Magistr | 4.5 | 4.0 | 3.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4 year bachelor (Hons) degree (480 credits) | 1st, 16/20 (80%) | 2:1,14/20 (70%) | 2:2, 12/20 (60%) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
GPA 4.0 scale | 3.5 | 3.0 | 2.8 |
GPA 5.0 scale | 4.5 | 3.75 | 3.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees | 16/20 or Tres Bien | 14/20 or Bien | 12/20 or Assez Bien |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Diplomirani/ Bachelor's degree | 9 | 8 | 7 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Honours degree or masters | 1st (70%) | 2:1 (60% or B) | 2:2 (50% or C) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bachelor (Hons) | First | Upper second | Lower second |
GPA 4.0 scale | 3.7 | 3.0 | 2.7 |
GPA 5.0 scale | 4.5 | 3.5 | 3.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bakalár (from 2005) Magister / Inzinier | 1.5 or B | 2.0 or C | 2.5 or C/high D |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
University Diplom | 9 | 8 | 7 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bachelor (Honours) or B Tech after 4 yrs study | 1st or 75% | 2:1 or 70% | 2:2 or 60% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
GPA out of 4.5 | 4.0 / A | 3.5 / B | 3.0 / C+ |
GPA out of 4.3 | 4.0 / A | 3.0 / B | 2.7 / C+ |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Licenciado / Título de Ingeniero / Título de Arquitecto | 8.5 | 7 | 6.5 |
UCM grading | 3.0 | 2.0 | 1.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4 year Professional degree or Bachelor Special or Honours degree | 90%, GPA 3.70 | 80%, GPA 3.30 | 70%, GPA 3.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4 year degree | 1st, 70%, B+ | 2:1, 66% | mid 2:2, 60%, B |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Kandidatexamen or Magisterexamen | Overall grade of VG with a minimum of 120 credits at VG | B or Overall grade of VG with a minimum of 90 credits at VG | C or Overall grade of G with a minimum of 90 credits at G |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
For degrees studied at The University of West Indies or degrees accredited by ACTT | 1st or GPA 3.6 | 2:1 or GPA 3.0 | 2:2 or GPA 2.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Licence, Maîtrise, Diplôme National d'Ingénieu | 16 (tres bien) | 14 (bien) | 11 (assez bien) |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Lisans Diplomasi or a Műhendis Diplomasi | 3.5 | 3 | 2.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
4 Yr Bakalavr, Specialist Diploma or Magistr | 5 | 4.5 | 4 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Uganda | 1st or 4.4 | 2:1 or 3.8 | 2:2 or 3.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Dyplom Magistra or a Bachelors degree (11 / 5) | 4.5 | 4.0 | 3.5 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
GPA 4.0 scale | 3.5 | 3.0 | 2.6 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
GPA 4.0 scale | 3.5 | 3.2 | 2.8 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Licenciado (4 year) | 9 | 8 | 7 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Bakalavr Diplomi / Diplomi (Specialist Diploma) | 90% or GPA 4.5 | 80% or GPA 4.0 | 70% or GPA 3.0 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Licenciado/Professional title. (4 year) | 18/20 or 8/9 | 16/20 or 7/9 | 14/20 or 6/9 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
10-point scale | 8.0 | 7.0 | 6.0 |
4-point scale | 3.5 | 3.0 | 2.8 |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
Master's | A or 4.0 or 80% | B+, 3.5 or 70% | B or 3.0 or 60% |
First-class honours (70%) | Upper second-class honours (60%) | Lower second-class honours (50%) | |
---|---|---|---|
3/4 year degree | 1st or 75% | 2:1 or 65% | 2:2 or 60% |
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website .
October 2025 start.
£12,500 Full-time degree per annum
£25,500 Full-time degree per annum
The fee stated is for a full-time student undertaking a master’s programme of 180 credits. Part-time students should divide the published fee by 180 credits and then multiply by the number of credits they are taking to calculate their tuition fees.
Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.
Our School of Social Sciences and Humanities is committed to helping you develop the skills and attributes you need to progress successfully in your chosen career.
On successful completion of our Creative Writing and the Writing Industries programme, you should be able to:
Programme leader and lecturer in english.
Kerry is a specialist in Creative Writing and Contemporary Travel with an interest in Literature Development. He leads workshops on aspects of poetry, fiction, creative non-fiction and editing, as well as the professional development module on working as a writer.
Senior lecturer in english.
Catie has been a lecturer in Early Modern Writing at Loughborough since 2007. Her main areas of interest are seventeenth-century radicalism, religious communities, and life writings. These concerns feed both the research and the teaching that she does.
Sara is a specialist in early modern culture, literature, and medicine, with a specific focus on women’s reproductive health. She is a novelist who writes research based historical fiction.
University teacher in english.
Deidre's specialism lies in contemporary Irish literature and has written publications on Irish women's poetry, Irish history and gender politics.
Lecturer in english.
Paul's principal research interests are in North American fiction, philosophy, and intellectual history, with a particular focus on the philosopher and critic Stanley Cavell. He has expertise in fiction, philosophy, and critical theory which forms his teaching.
Barbara is delighted to share my love of narrative, and non-fictional narrative through her teaching. Her interests in twentieth-century and modernist (auto)biography, life writing and archival research underpin her current project, the Complete Works of Evelyn Waugh.
The programme is designed for students who want to develop their creative work as a writer, as well as exploring a range of professional possibilities in the writing industries, heritage, community arts and publishing, education and freelancing.
As this is a new programme, graduate destinations are not yet available. However, this degree is particularly suitable for those interested in competing and publishing their own work, and working as freelance writers, as well as those with interests in working in education, heritage, the arts and events management.
Ma storytelling.
Loughborough
“It’s only by writing, not dreaming about it, that we develop our own style.” – PD James
In 1970, the UK higher education sector unleashed its first ever MA in Creative Writing ; a pioneering programme that sought to teach students the art of words, the craft of language, the undying profession of storytelling. It was the first time prospective students could choose to hone their passion in a formally-taught environment – but boy, did it suffer its fair share of controversy…
Ernest Hemingway, one of the most notable influencers of 20th century fiction, once said that, “There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.” And that soon became a notion that seeped into the pores of every writing highbrow, as well as those deriving from the wider creative arts. “Some thought writing couldn’t be taught,” says Malcolm Bradbury, expert on the modern novel and advocate of the UK’s first, specialised writing MA.
“Some thought, if it could be, it shouldn’t be. Some thought it couldn’t be properly examined. And some thought that even if it could be taught with propriety and examined with rigour it still had no place in a university.”
But now, as we approach the 47th year since the establishment of the first formalised Creative Writing course, prolific writers such as Ian McEwan , Kazuo Ishiguro , Hayley Long , Nathan Filer and Jane Green are paving the way for Creative Writing graduates around the world, and the answer to the million-dollar-question: Can Creative Writing really be taught? Is undeniably: Yes.
The writer is an artist, and therefore writing is an art, making its scandalised entrance into academia not only completely unwarranted, but also plainly hypocritical. After all, it’s okay for an illustrator, an actor, a painter or a dancer to seek proper training. But a writer…
“[A]cademic institutions offer a shelter for literary values, and for those who wish to practise them, in a way that publishing, being increasingly market-driven, does not,” Rachel Cusk writes for The Guardian . “…[I]t is both an entitlement and a necessity for creative people to study and refine their craft,” she adds.
Writing education has unlimited potential to add a great depth of diversity to an already competitive industry, by instilling students with an innovative skillset they can use to progress their careers. On top of this, a curriculum that teaches the process of getting published leaves graduates equipped with a contemporary business acumen, something that’s entirely necessary to succeed in the corporate world. Without these things, as Jennifer Tuckett writes for the Huffington Post , the possibility of diversity devalues and decreases, “because, if you don’t come from a background associated with the arts, how do you know how to be a writer?”
And for the grumbling-naysayers who maintain that Creative Writing and related subjects are ‘pointless’ and ‘dead end’, it’s a degree that grants a wealth of transferrable skills that are incredibly profitable for global employers. “For positions in marketing and publicity as well as to some extent, editorial, the skills that come from creative writing degrees can be very valuable,” says Ellie Pike, HR Adviser at Penguin .
The saying goes that everybody has a book inside them , and so long as you have passion, drive, commitment, and a deeply-ingrained love of your craft, why shouldn’t you invest in an education guaranteed to help you unleash that internalised best-seller?
So if you think this is the academic path you feel could truly work for you, here are 5 top UK universities for Creative Writing and Literature:
Aberystwyth University (Aber) provides an education that’s both innovative and informative, encouraging students to develop into critical thinkers, innovative creators and well-rounded individuals. With comprehensive degree programmes in English Literature , Creative Writing , English and Creative Writing , and Joint Honours Programmes , Aber is helping define a generation of eloquent wordsmiths throughout the UK and the world.
Home to a diverse community of students, researchers and teachers, the Department is a vibrant and inspirational place to study. World class teaching from expert faculty enables students’ critical thinking and creativity to flourish, delivering life-long skills that lead them to success in the world of work and far beyond.
The Department of English and Creative Writing delivers a consistently outstanding student experience. In the latest national survey of student satisfaction the Department ranked #1 in Wales for English and Creative Writing, #3 in the UK for feedback and #1 in the UK for learning resources. Overall satisfaction for English was an exceptional 97%. In two recent surveys, Aber was ranked the safest place in the world to be a student – that, coupled with the impressive quality of ECW’s teaching and the unique and breath-takingly beautiful environment of West Wales coastline makes this one of the world’s most attractive English departments.
The University of Dundee blends cutting-edge intellectual achievement with practical applications, embodying an institution that is both aspirational and down-to-earth.
Dundee’s School of Humanities plays host to the university’s rich array of English courses , a vibrant cultural scene where students are welcomed into an inclusive, creative community.
Courses are developed with a conscious mind of the modern student’s needs and interests, while reflecting Dundee’s commitment to cutting-edge ideas of the field.
With interests that span the mediaeval to the contemporary period, from Classic Literature to Comic Studies, to Creative Writing and the Theatre, Dundee poses a captivating portfolio of English-based degrees.
The University of Surrey is one of the UK’s leading professional, scientific and technological universities, boasting outstanding students, dedicated staff, award-winning academics, successful alumni and a whole host of other notable individuals.
Surrey’s English programmes, including Creative Writing and English Literature , have been ranked Number One in the 2016 National Student Survey, and within the Top Ten by The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017.
Through Literature and Writing , Surrey’s academics and students dig beneath the surface in search of deeper truths – about ourselves, about our generation, about our increasingly complex world.
The University of Nottingham is a campus-based, comprehensive and research-led institution that seeks to recruit top students and staff from all four corners of the globe.
Nottingham boasts a first-rate, international reputation for excellence in its reputed School of English , a faction formally opened back in 1881.
The School hosts a range of undergraduate , masters and distance learning options in areas like Creative Writing, Literature, English Language, Applied Linguistics and beyond, providing a unique combination of English-centred disciplines.
Students come from Spain, Italy, Germany, the USA, China, Japan, Malaysia, Brazil and across the Middle East, just to get a taste of Nottingham’s elite English teachings.
The University of Reading prides itself in providing everything you need to prepare yourself for professional life and give you the edge in your future career – especially for those with a keen creative eye.
Reading’s innovative Creative Writing courses are taught by practising, published authors known at the highest professional level. As a team that comprises poets, novelists and creative non-fiction writers, Reading poses the tools to give you first-hand, valuable experience into the elusive creative process.
Reading understands that the ultimate task of the writer is to turn meaningful, raw material into something structured, shaped and polished – so the university’s Creative Writing pathway is designed to help you do this.
*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International
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Studying creative writing at university, example course modules.
Average for this subject
Average for all subjects
Average hours for this subject: 9 (Low N/A - High N/A). Average hours for all subjects: 14.
The time you'll spend in lectures and seminars each week will vary from university to university, so use this as a guide.
Academic experience.
Creative writing is a subject that seems like a laidback one - a bit of story writing and you're done, easy, right? - but it's not. You need to be hardworking, creative (obviously!) and involved. Stories may rather easily come to mind, but it takes time, effort and skill to put pen to paper and create what is in your mind - and even then, you'll hate a lot of what you've written and want to start again. Creative writing is a subject that requires a lot of effort and input, it requires you to get involved in class and share your work and ideas, because you never know where someone's feedback will lead you. Ultimately, though, when you finally get that 'bit of story writing' spot on and just how you like it, the effort is all worth it. Especially if your grades reflect your work!
The content of the course is tailored towards improving you as a writer, not telling how to write or imposing how/ what they think you should be writing, but encouraging your own creativity and helping you build upon your 'writer's toolbox'. The type of work we usually do is creative exercises, during which we are often given a task in small groups to create an idea, for example, one group might be given the task of creating a world for a story, then another might be given the task of creating characters, and another group given the task of creating a storyline guiding the character through the world. Exercises such as this help develop a writer's ability to create and adapt their own ideas and techniques whilst learning what others might do in the same situation.
On the creative writing course we are asked to do weekly assignments; these are signed each week as proof that they have been completed. They are added to our portfolio which is marked at the end of semester along with our essays. There are no exams. In year 1 and 2 we also work in group presentations. There is a wide variety of modules to choose from in different writing areas, which helps to expand our knowledge of what we would like to specialise in. There are opportunities to perform our work and also submit it to the university's publications. These are student-run with the support of tutors.
Subjects you need.
A-levels (or equivalent) usually required
Useful to have
Here's a guide to what to expect from the application process - also check individual university entry requirements, as these may differ.
Your personal statement is a core part of your university application, and getting it just right takes time. Before you start work on yours, take a look at our five quick tips on writing a personal statement. We'll help you past that writer's block!
Six months after graduating.
Jobs where this degree is useful.
Creative writing students can learn a range of subject-specific skills including a grounding in the technique and forms of creative writing; how to develop ideas in writing and the principles of writing for different audiences from theatre to online. Transferable skills you can develop include first-rate communication skills, project management, team-working, self-motivation and time management. Creative writing graduates find jobs in publishing, education, advertising, TV and film and the performing arts.
Drama and theatre studies, english language and literature, photography and film, media studies.
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The art of creative writing relies on stimulating the mind and uplifting the generation of new ideas, circumstances, and people. This is a whole new concept whereby authors may let their creativity run wild and create vivid mental images with their words.
Students who can master this competency will have a greater capacity for self-expression and interpersonal interaction. Although practice and guidance in developing this talent are equally crucial, taking courses in creative writing is a terrific approach.
The British economy relies heavily on the inventive sector. The United Kingdom has the longest literary tradition and is at the forefront of literary innovation. Many British authors have become bestsellers in the United Kingdom and globally over the years. Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte, and George Elliot are just a few selections of the prominent writers on this list.
Because of its proximity to both established literary canons and modern academic facilities, the United Kingdom is an excellent location to study creative writing.
Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide on studying creative writing in the United Kingdom for international students.
The United Kingdom is home to a population that consistently ranks among the world’s most intelligent and inventive. Some of its institutions have excellent programs in creative writing. The ones listed here are only a few of the greatest.
Bringing you the first highly regarded school in our list, the University of Leeds is ranked among the top universities in the world. Established in 1904 it is among the biggest in the United Kingdom, Leeds attracts students from nearly 170 nations annually. Leeds University, being among the UK’s major research-intensive institutions, has made its name in groundbreaking studies in a wide variety of fields.
The three-year undergraduate program in creative writing at UOL is designed to help students improve their analytical abilities and creative writing skills throughout their education. Stories, poems, autobiographies, and journals will all be among the forms of writing they can develop. In addition, students will read both historical and contemporary works written in English from around the world. These pieces can address issues such as ethnic origin, environmental degradation, sustainability, socioeconomic status, wellness, etc.
Students pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing are obligated to complete an individual dissertation that may focus on one creative topic or serve as a portfolio for their writing, whichever is most appealing to the individual.
The University of Leeds offers several scholarship programs for international students, one of which is the Head of School Excellence Scholarship . It covers 100% of the UK tuition or 50% of the foreign tuition fees.
Our second recommendation is a university that has gained a name in the research modernization and tutoring model, the University of Warwick . Warwick University’s courses are accredited by various recognized institutions. It is regularly placed among the top 10 institutions in the UK.
Among other programs, one of the top courses this institute offers for international students is a Bachelor in English Literature and Creative Writing. Earning this three-year degree may broaden a student’s perspective on literature, individual approach, and the world at large.
They’ll be well-equipped to succeed in any field that emphasizes conceptualization, originality, and a knack to get one’s point through clearly and persuasively.
Moving to an Advanced Master’s Degree in Writing from the University of Warwick, encompasses the 1-year full time of collaborating with renowned, working authors of fiction, poetry, and translations of literature.
The university offers generous scholarships awards and grants to international students. The Undergraduate Global Excellence Scholarship , for example, awards full payment and half payment of tuition fees.
Next on our list is the University of Strathclyde , which stands 3rd in English according to Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023. It is AACSB accredited and additionally, more than 90 percent of its research is considered globally outstanding and world-renowned.
The BA Honors in English and Creative Writing takes a fresh, contemporary, and welcoming approach to educating English literature and the dynamic writing method, providing students with a solid grounding in both. Student development in areas like textural evaluation and comprehension is emphasized as a means of preparing them for successful professional lives. The 4-years of this program will offer various core and elective units for foreign applicants.
The cost of tuition for this bachelor’s degree is £17,400 per year. The eligibility requirements of this course include a prior academic excellence record and a passed English Proficiency test. The university also offers a generous number of grants and scholarships for EU and International students alike.
The University of Birmingham , a founding member of the elite Russell Group, is our next stop since it was the first Redbrick institution. Their vibrant student body benefits from a great variety of academic offerings, as well as top-notch campuses and research facilities. The institution is also quite proud of its 10 Nobel laureates who are part of their alumni and made significant contributions to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
Their courses expose students to an extensive selection of literary categories as well as historical periods, including a vast array of possible specializations. These include the Middle Ages literature to virtual writing throughout the 21st century. Among others, they also have the Shakespeare Institute, which houses an array of information unmatched anywhere else worldwide.
Students pursuing a Master’s degree in this field will get beneficial knowledge from specialists in the publishing sector, like authors and creators of content, as they participate in professional workshops. Applicants in the Ph.D. program will be given the resources they need to create a substantial artistic piece or series of works. All the fees of the respective courses for international students are mentioned on the pages linked above.
Numerous prominent foreign scholarships are available at the University of Birmingham to recognize exceptional academic achievements and alleviate the financial concerns of potential overseas students. The scholarships vary in offering fee waivers, health insurance coverage travel, and residential costs of students.
The final institute on our list is the University of Reading , which for more than 100 years has been the vanguard of UK higher education . The University has evolved into an intellectual and social leader throughout the years, breaking new ground in both areas.
The three-year Creative Writing program encourages students to fully immerse themselves in the inventive process, from brainstorming story ideas to constructing poetry. In the category of creative writing, the university comes in at number 11 in the Complete University Guide 2023. They provide a carefully selected set of English literature courses meant to inspire students’ creative writing.
Their Master’s course in Creative Writing will introduce students to a variety of courses directly connected to the life of writing while assisting them in developing and completing medium-sized artistic assignments, whether they are experienced writers or just beginning in the field.
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate scholarships for international students. These grants allow full to partial funding for tuition fees and other expenses for qualifying students.
Which creative writing schools offer scholarships for international students.
Possibilities thrive in the United Kingdom for overseas students, and the country’s institutions are exceptionally generous in providing financial help in the form of scholarships. Numerous scholarships and awards are accessible to students to encourage the growth of their creative skills. The purpose of their efforts is to foster the careers of both aspiring and established writers.
The University of Leeds ‘ Head of School Excellence Scholarship and the University of Warwick ‘s Undergraduate Global Excellence Scholarship are two of the most distinguished scholarships offered to qualified students. Financial aid from these sources may be used to defray the cost of tuition with full and partial funding along with funds for health insurance, transportation, and basic living expenditures.
The above-mentioned universities are highly regarded universities in the United Kingdom offering programs leading to this kind of degree. This article was created to help you decide where to apply for creative writing programs and make a well-informed decision.
We hope you liked the article. Feel free to explore the Study in the UK Guide and more Available Programs for International Students .
About the Author: Hyun Lee
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Pre-Master's in Economics and Social Sciences - Creative Writing and Publishing Throughout this Pre-Master's in Economics and Social Sciences - Creative Writing and Publishing from INTO... INTO City University London London, England, United Kingdom
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Universities in the UK are some of the most highly regarded in the world, and for good reasons. Some of the world's most highly regarded research takes place in British universities, which are regularly featured in international rankings. While studying in the UK, you will be able to develop in a highly multicultural environment with high chances of pursuing lucrative careers after graduation. The teaching in the UK is designed to encourage new idea generation, encouraging individual research and group cooperation, through class discussions and creative assignments.
Take the test and find out which country is your best fit.
Creative Writing degrees teach ways of building stories by expressing thoughts, feelings, and emotions using the written medium, as opposed to simply presenting written facts. Future creative writers learn to use elements of fiction, character creation, and plot development. Upon graduation, you’ll have the opportunity to work as a play writer, screenwriter, journalist, or fiction writer.
Take the test and find out if Creative Writing is the right path for you.
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Develop your creativity with an Oxford University short course or award programme.
Need an extra push to finish your novel, poem or play? Completely new to the world of creative writing? Want to improve your analytical reading skills? No matter where you are in your writing journey, or where you are in the world, there is a part-time course to suit you.
Our short online courses in creative writing include live-time weekly classes, day and weekend schools and flexible online courses.
Credit earned from our short online courses is transferable towards our Certificate of Higher Education - a part-time undergraduate course in which you study a main subject discipline but also undertake study in other academic subjects.
Browse short online courses in creative writing
Our two-year, part-time Undergraduate Diploma in Creative Writing allows you to strengthen your ability in four major areas of literary activity — prose, poetry, drama and analytical reading — as well as the chance to specialise in the medium of your choice. You can now opt to take this course mostly online.
Find out more about the Diploma in Creative Writing
English poetry of the first world war (online).
Learn to write flash fiction.
Online courses in literature, rita mccormick, tessa fenley, student spotlights.
Updated: February 29, 2024
Below is a list of best universities in the World ranked based on their research performance in Creative Writing. A graph of 3.39M citations received by 403K academic papers made by 1,501 universities in the World was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.
We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.
Please note that our approach to subject rankings is based on scientific outputs and heavily biased on art-related topics towards institutions with computer science research profiles.
For Creative Writing
If you are a passionate reader who enjoys a broad spectrum of books, from Shakespeare to Postmodern fiction, and who also likes the idea of tapping into your own creative energy to craft it into poetry, plays or prose, then this is the perfect place to do it.
Our Creative Writing and English Literature degree offers an exploration of literary and creative writing in a rich combination of critical theory and practical workshops.
The Creative Writing modules enable you to enhance your skills and evolve as an individual writer at your own pace and in your own way, while discovering how your own writing relates to the wider realms of literary and cultural context.
In English Literature, study is wide-ranging as you investigate how literature works through a close reading of modern and traditional literature, cultural and critical analysis, and writing in different genres.
The course arms you with some fantastic transferable skills, such as confident and compelling storytelling, critical thinking and articulate expression. These abilities are valued in a variety of employment contexts including arts and entertainment as well as business and commerce.
Course start date.
Winchester campus
104-120 points
From £9,250 pa
The course seeks to move you progressively through a structured series of writing assignments and exercises, working on all genres of writing in the first year, and then allowing you to specialise in Years 2 and 3.
Your work develops in a workshop environment bolstered by positive critical encouragement and direction throughout. Additional guidance is given on audience (for example, editor, agent or publisher) where appropriate.
In Year 2, the focus becomes more specific with a choice of modules that concentrate on elements of different genres such as writing for children, media writing, poetry, song and play, film and TV script. English Literature modules involve studying a group of texts representative of a period of history, a particular genre or a particular area of the world.
In Year 3, the modules look increasingly at the relationships between writing and the world beyond the University, exploring publishing, producing, community audiences, writing and teaching. There is also an opportunity to work on an extended creative project in your chosen genre with one-to-one supervision from an expert in this field. Modules tend to be closely related to the research interests of teaching staff and engage with cutting-edge developments in the discipline.
Learning and teaching
Our aim is to shape 'confident learners' by enabling you to develop the skills needed to excel in your studies here and as well as onto further studies or the employment market.
You are taught primarily through a combination of lectures and seminars, allowing opportunities to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups.
In addition to the formally scheduled contact time such as lectures and seminars etc.), you are encouraged to access academic support from staff within the course team and the wide range of services available to you within the University.
Independent learning
Over the duration of your course, you will be expected to develop independent and critical learning, progressively building confidence and expertise through independent and collaborative research, problem-solving and analysis with the support of staff. You take responsibility for your own learning and are encouraged to make use of the wide range of available learning resources available.
Overall workload
Your overall workload consists of class contact hours, independent learning and assessment activity. While your actual contact hours may depend on the optional modules you select, the following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course.
Year 1 (Level 4): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 240 hours
Independent learning: 960 hours
Year 2 (Level 5): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 252 hours
Independent learning: 948 hours
Year 3 (Level 6): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 228 hours
Independent learning: 972 hours
*Please note these are indicative hours for the course.
Teaching Hours
All class based teaching takes places between 9am – 6pm, Monday to Friday during term time. Wednesday afternoons are kept free from timetabled teaching for personal study time and for sports clubs and societies to train, meet and play matches. There may be some occasional learning opportunities (for example, an evening guest lecturer or performance) that take places outside of these hours for which you will be given forewarning.
Our validated courses may adopt a range of means of assessing your learning. An indicative, and not necessarily comprehensive, list of assessment types you might encounter includes essays, portfolios, supervised independent work, presentations, written exams, or practical performances.
We ensure all students have an equal opportunity to achieve module learning outcomes. As such, where appropriate and necessary, students with recognised disabilities may have alternative assignments set that continue to test how successfully they have met the module's learning outcomes. Further details on assessment types used on the course you are interested in can be found on the course page, by attending an Open Day or Open Evening, or contacting our teaching staff.
The assessment balance between examination and coursework depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose. The approximate percentage of the course assessed by different assessment modes is as follows:
Year 1 (Level 4)*:
87% coursework 13% written exams 0% practical assessment
Year 2 (Level 5)*:
Year 3 (Level 6)*:
99% coursework 0% written exams 1% practical assessment
*Please note these are indicative percentages and modes for the programme.
This module is designed as an introduction for students exploring their creativity through developing their own fictional writing and studying exemplary works in the short form. It will enable students to improve their own creative and critical skills, and to learn how to express observations, experiences and perceptions in the form of prose fiction, whilst at the same time developing evaluative skills. It will focus on key tents of fictional writing through analysis of texts and by associated practical exercises. We will discuss such key topics as point of view, characterisation, dialogue, plot, setting and other aspects of the fiction writer’s craft in relation to students’ own work and the work of published authors. The key skills of researching, drafting, revising and editing will be stressed throughout.
In this module students will be introduced to the conventions, forms and techniques of scriptwriting. Students will develop their narrative skills, with particular focus on how film stories are told through scenes and images and transitions suggested to the director by the writer, i.e. by indications of mise-en-scene and montage. Students will develop their skills in the communication of film script narrative though ‘pitch presentations,’ and will practise the writing of outlines and of film script on the page according to the film industry standard. The module will concentrate on fiction film (as opposed to documentary) and will utilise seminars, workshops, and screenings.
This module is designed to enable students to work with non-fictional writings, and to learn how to express experiences and perceptions within some of the key strands of this written form (e.g. the memoir, the themed personal essay, the interview-based portrait of a person or research-based portrait of a place etc.) The module is also intended to develop students’ creative and critical skills in tandem, understanding how to read and interpret writing as well as how to produce it. As such, students will be introduced to a varied range of approaches to non-fictional styles. Most work will be done in workshop groups, graduating to the production of independent pieces of non-fiction.
This module is designed to enable students to express their own creativity through various poetic strategies, introducing students to a varied range of poetry. Although historical forms and traditions will also be a source of reference there is to be a particular focus on twentieth- and twenty-first century developments, whilst engaging directly with some of the key issues in the production of poetry – including its oral, aural and visual performative aspects. Practical work will be done in workshop groups, graduating to the production of independent poems in different forms.
This double module provides the foundation for the degree by establishing key skills for English Literature students. It focuses on four key areas:
A literary text does not have meaning in and of itself, its meaning is always a product of its relation to other texts, both literary and non-literary. This module will examine a range of ways that texts have been analysed through their relationship with other texts. It will begin with the well-established concepts of source, genre, and allusion, examining specific texts and tracing these relationships. It will then look at theoretical expansions of the concept of intertextuality and consider these in relation to an extended study of a pair of related literary texts. Finally, it will consider adaptation of literary texts such as a fairy tale into other media such as film, television and the visual arts, considering how identification of a text as an adaptation of a preceding one impacts upon the interpretation of both.
While Goethe introduced the phrase Weltliteratur in 1827 and called on us to hasten its approach, ‘World Literature’ remains, in David Damrosch’s view, an ‘elusive’ thing (‘Which literature? Whose world?’) Drawing on critical methodologies established in Studying English Literature , and complementing Literature in Context , this module will focus on how the study of ‘English’ as a discipline is affected by globalization and so-called ‘identity politics’. It will explore a range of texts both modern and foundational to illustrate a variety of concepts and critical issues, including: diaspora and migration, nationalism and multiculturalism, non-British English and reading in translation, and the effect of globalization on contemporary politics. It also invites students to consider the heterogeneity of the term ‘World Literature’ as both a hindrance and a benefit when tackling concepts like, for example, gender as a social and, increasingly, international construct.
This module is an introduction to studies in which students develop their own short fictional writing while studying exemplary works in the short form, which will be examined across a number of interrelated axes:
- Time: fostering an awareness of accomplishment in the modern English short story, from the mid-19th century, through modernism, postmodernism and postcolonialism, up to the best writing today
- Place: the breadth of places globally where work in English has been produced, and the distinctiveness of voices represented therein; as well as the diverse range of life-experience to which a writer can bring their imagination
- Form: e.g. narrative conventions of beginning, middle and end, and how those elements might be presented (cf. Godard) ‘not necessarily in that order.’ Similarly, experiments in point of view: e.g. narrators who are reliably unreliable or purposely inarticulate, and prose style from the ‘high style’ to the fragmented and discordant.
Building on Creative Non-Fiction, this module will show students why creative non-fiction is a major growth area in contemporary publishing, one that provides writers with lots of potential opportunities to work professionally. A range of exemplary texts will be studied, in familiar forms such as memoir, and additionally in forms such as biography and travel writing. Unconventional and innovative styles of narration will be considered, alongside more standard linear narratives. Students will delve deeper into research methods, how to use sources both private and public, as well as into the challenges and problems of such excavations. Students will then develop their own writing skills in creating and shaping relatable narratives from real-life origins, appreciating also the occasionally blurred lines between fictional and factual modes. Through practical workshops they will develop and refine a piece of creative non-fiction prior to eventual submission.
Critical Theory has unarguably transformed the discipline of English Literature, but its significance in the 21 st century has been increasingly subject to debate. This module responds to proclamations of the ‘Death of Theory’ and the rush to declare us ‘post-Theory’ (post-gender, post-race, post-truth, etc.) It examines the development of Critical Theory through the 20 th century, as well as foundational texts from philosophy, to confront the historical and intellectual impact of ‘theory’ on the discipline. The module will explore works by difficult thinkers (from Barthes to Žižek), as well as the philosophers who influenced them (Plato, Heidegger, etc.) in order to experience theory first-hand, learning to tackle the more difficult critical material in the discipline in order to both assess its usefulness and application for different texts, contexts and periods. The focus on Critical Theory and philosophy will also enable students to engage with several of the UN sustainable development goals, including: 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and those focused on ecological sustainability.
This is a preparatory module for two mandatory third year modules—the ‘Dissertation’ and the ‘Vocational Study’ module—and is taught in two parts.
(1) The ‘Preparation for Research’ part tackles various aspects of research, such as: discriminating between different methodologies to frame an individual project; making research creative and exciting; developing and planning an undergraduate dissertation; undertaking a preparatory literature review; writing research proposals.
(2) The ‘professional writing’ part of the module focuses on the transferable skills attained throughout the degree and prepares for life as an English Literature graduate. It looks at: project and time management; interviewing and presentation; and writing an effective C.V. The module will also give students a sense of academia as a profession and what it means to be a life-long learner (with reference to the UN Sustainability Goals).
It consists of a piece of creative writing between 4-5000 words (with exceptions such as poetry, to be agreed by supervising tutor) with a supporting rationale of 4-5000 words that demonstrates a substantial engagement with a particular critical issue relevant to the creative piece. A supporting bibliography is also required. Study is primarily student-directed, with supervision supplied by tutors teaching/researching in the subject area. Students will draw on the Preparation for Research and Professional Writing module in addition to a small number of general lectures to further provide guidance through the process, but this is primarily a self-directed, independent study. A viva voce exam might be requested of students in order to clarify assessment decisions.
In addition to tariff points an A level or equivalent level 3 pass in English, or in a related subject in the areas of arts, humanities or social sciences, including drama, theatre, communications, history, theology or philosophy.
Our offers are typically made using UCAS tariff points to allow you to include a range of level 3 qualifications and as a guide, the requirements for this course are equivalent to:
A-Levels: BCC-BBB from 3 A Levels or equivalent grade combinations (e.g. BBB is comparable to ABC in terms of tariff points)
BTEC/CTEC: DMM from BTEC or Cambridge Technical (CTEC) qualifications
International Baccalaureate: To include a minimum of 2 Higher Level certificates at grade H4 or above, including a pass in English, or in a related subject in the areas of arts, humanities or social sciences, including drama, theatre, communications, history, theology or philosophy.
T Level: Merit in a T Level
Additionally, we accept tariff points achieved for many other qualifications, such as the Access to Higher Education Diploma, Scottish Highers, UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma and WJEC Applied Certificate/Diploma, to name a few. We also accept tariff points from smaller level 3 qualifications, up to a maximum of 32, from qualifications like the Extended Project (EP/EPQ), music or dance qualifications. To find out more about UCAS tariff points, including what your qualifications are worth, please visit UCAS .
In addition to level 3 study, the following GCSE’s are required:
GCSE English Language at grade 4 or C, or higher. Functional Skills at level 2 is accepted as an alternative, however Key Skills qualifications are not. If you hold another qualification, please get in touch and we will advise further.
If you will be over the age of 21 years of age at the beginning of your undergraduate study, you will be considered as a mature student. This means our offer may be different and any work or life experiences you have will be considered together with any qualifications you hold. UCAS have further information about studying as a mature student on their website which may be of interest.
If English is not your first language, a formal English language test will most likely be required and you will need to achieve the following:
If you are living outside of the UK or Europe, you can find out more about how to join this course by contacting our International Recruitment Team via our International Apply Pages.
UK / Channel Islands / Isle of Man / Republic of Ireland | International | |
---|---|---|
Year 1 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
Year 2 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
Year 3 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
Total | £27,750 | £50,100 |
Optional Sandwich Year* | £1,850 | £3,340 |
Total with Sandwich Year | £29,600 | £53,440 |
If you are a UK student starting your degree in September 2025, the first year will cost you £9,250**. Based on this fee level, the indicative fees for a three-year degree would be £27,750 for UK students.
Remember, you don’t have to pay any of this upfront if you are able to get a tuition fee loan from the UK Government to cover the full cost of your fees each year.
UK Part-Time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £77.08 and a 15 credit module is £1,156. Part-time students can take up to a maximum 90 credits per year, so the maximum fee in a given year will be the government permitted maximum fee of £6,935.
International part-time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £139.14 and a 15 credit module is £2,087.
* Please note that not all courses offer an optional sandwich year.
**The University of Winchester will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year.
As one of our students all of your teaching and assessments are included in your tuition fees, including, lectures/guest lectures and tutorials, seminars, laboratory sessions and specialist teaching facilities. You will also have access to a wide range of student support and IT services.
There might be additional costs you may encounter whilst studying. The following highlights the mandatory and optional costs for this course:
Optional Core Texts
Copies of core texts are held within the library and e-books are identified where possible, however often students wish to purchase some books for their own use. It is possible for students to buy second-hand copies. Indicative cost is £160 per academic year.
In students second year of study, there may be a field trip depending on module choices. Indicative cost is £20.
Disclosure and Barring Service
A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance check may be required if you undertake a placement, volunteering, research or other course related activity where you will have contact with children or vulnerable adults. The requirement for a DBS check will be confirmed by staff as part of the process to approve your placement, research or other activity. The indicative cost is £40.
We have a variety of scholarship and bursaries available to support you financially with the cost of your course. To see if you’re eligible, please see our Scholarships and Awards.
Graduates become professional writers or follow careers in publishing, advertising, marketing, teaching or other professions that require advanced communication skills. Recent graduates have successfully set themselves up as freelance writers.
The University of Winchester ranks in the top 10 in the UK for graduates in employment or further study according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023, HESA.
Pre-approved for a Masters
If you study a Bachelor Honours degree with us, you will be pre-approved to start a Masters degree at Winchester. To be eligible, you will need to apply by the end of March in the final year of your degree and meet the entry requirements of your chosen Masters degree.
I love the freedom you get, you can basically do whatever you want to do. You can be really expressive and creative. You get a lot of help through workshopping and it gives you a chance to read different forms of writing that I never thought existed. Laura, BA (Hons) Creative Writing UWin Student Blog
We want your application process to be as simple as possible. Find out everything you need to know about the application process, how to apply, your offer and how to secure your place.
Dr Vanessa Harbour is a Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing and a successful novelist. She writes for children and young adults, as well as historical fiction. Her novel Flight, published in 2018, was shortlisted for the Sheffield Children's Book Award.
Take a look at all our courses within the subject areas of English, Creative Writing and Journalism
Our International students come from all over the world and we understand that something’s are a little different when applying and then arriving at the University. We have therefore provided a list of some of the countries we work in with specific information included on Entry Requirements, Funding Opportunities, Visas and other useful information.
See our open days.
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Qualification, university name, phd degrees in creative writing.
49 degrees at 41 universities in the UK.
Select the start date, qualification, and how you want to study
Creative writing extends beyond the boundaries of normal professional journalism or academic forms of literature. It is often associated with fiction and poetry, but primarily emphasises narrative craft, character development, and the use of traditional literary forms.
A PhD level exploration of creative writing is a three-year full-time programme, where candidates delve into the complexities of literary expression, developing their own research and create projects with the goal of making an original contribution to the field.
There are more than fifty creative writing PhD programmes in the UK, and these give candidates a platform to fully immerse themselves in their ideas and take their work to the next level.
A PhD in creative writing offers the time and space to develop personal creative methods, combined with advanced workshops, critical seminars, and guest lectures from working authors. Under an academic mentor's supervision, candidates typically work towards completing a novel, poetry collection or screenplay.
Postgraduate programmes such as these often foster a supportive community of writers and scholars, and collaboration with peers is encouraged. Graduates can expect to emerge as confident and aspirational authors, with a developed style and professional aspiration, prepared for careers in writing, publishing, academia, or other creative industries. The degree provides a pathway for making significant contributions to the world of literature through original and innovative creative works.
University of leicester.
PhD study in the area of Creative Writing is offered by the School of English at Leicester and this means becoming part of an exciting and Read more...
University of east anglia uea.
We are a top tier, research-led university and are committed to making a substantial impact on the global challenges facing society. Our Read more...
Plymouth’s PhD in Creative Writing is one of the longest running in the UK, going back to the late 1990s. Our MA, and PhD students have had Read more...
University of gloucestershire.
What is History, Religion, Philosophy and Politics A research degree in the Humanities offers a multitude of opportunities, depending on Read more...
We welcome applications from postgraduate students interested in pursuing innovative research in Creative Writing. A Creative Writing Read more...
University of essex.
Theatre and Drama in the Department of Literature, Film and Theatre Studies is led by a vibrant group of playwrights and theatre Read more...
About our programmes English at Hull is friendly, inclusive and supportive, and characterised by the internationally excellent research Read more...
Newcastle university.
Our MPhil, PhD in Creative Writing offers you the opportunity to develop a substantial, original piece of creative work and a related Read more...
University of nottingham.
Nottingham is a fantastic place to study creative writing. From readings to workshops, to guest lectures, we have a wide range of literary Read more...
University of strathclyde.
As well as the popular MLitt in Creative Writing, we also offer a research-led Creative Writing route, which may suit those who wish to Read more...
Why choose this programme We belong to the interdisciplinarySchool of Literature and Languages, which has research-active staff in English Read more...
Bangor university.
If you take this Creative and Critical Writing PhD or MPhil course you will experience One-to-one teaching and supervision by Read more...
University of roehampton.
Research conducted in the School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences covers a wide range of diverse and innovative arts practices, Read more...
University of kent.
This programme addresses one of our main aims at Kent, which is to enable research students to take risks and use cross-disciplinary Read more...
Brunel university london.
Research profile From modernist and post-war women's writing to Caribbean and migrant fiction, our research interests span a wide range of Read more...
This Creative Writing PhD has a reputation as one of the UK’s leading doctoral programmes. Taught by teams of published creative writers Read more...
This course is in the School of Creative Industries. PhD research programmes will allow you to explore your own interests in creative Read more...
These courses feature four specially designed modules which will improve your academic and English skills. Once completed you can progress Read more...
PhD Creative Writing The English Department provides an excellent environment for postgraduate study, research, and creative work. The Read more...
University of portsmouth.
If you're ready to take your expertise in Journalism, Communication and Creative Writing into a postgraduate research degree, Portsmouth is Read more...
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Yorkshire and the Humber. League tables of the universities for Creative Writing, 2025. Compare universities, courses, prospects and career options.
Below is a list of best universities in the United Kingdom ranked based on their research performance in Creative Writing. A graph of 640K citations received by 54.6K academic papers made by 121 universities in the United Kingdom was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.
6. University of Strathclyde. Based in the center of Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, the University of Strathclyde is a multi-award-winning university. And when it comes to creative writing, Strathclyde offers some unique areas of study for undergraduates, including Scottish literature and the Glasgow novel.
The University of Leeds offers a three-year programme in Creative Writing. The renowned university is highly ranked in the UK and it is among the top 100 universities of the world. Leeds' programme starts from £24,500 per year for international students. The University of Kent is ranked as one of the best in the UK for Creative Writing ...
Full league tables of the best universities for Creative Writing, 2025. Compare universities, courses, prospects and career options. Cookies Notice. ... A Creative Writing degree will let you flex your storytelling abilities and study the work of literary legends.Our university rankings for Creative Writing include Scriptwriting and Poetry ...
Below is the list of 96 best universities for Creative Writing in England ranked based on their research performance: a graph of 549K citations received by 45.6K academic papers made by these universities was used to calculate ratings and create the top.
Our course is number one for creative writing in the UK (The Times Good University Guide 2023) and has 91.7% overall student satisfaction in National Student Survey. You will undertake real-world writing tasks and will regularly meet, engage with, and learn from industry professionals, including publishers, editors, literary agents, poets, and ...
About the course. The MSt in Creative Writing is a two-year, part-time master's degree course offering a unique combination of high contact hours, genre specialisation, and critical and creative breadth. The emphasis of the course is cross-cultural and cross-genre, pointing up the needs and challenges of the contemporary writer who produces ...
Programme description. Based in the first UNESCO World City of Literature, this one-year, full-time taught Masters programme is tailored towards your practice in either fiction or poetry. There is a strong practical element to the programme, helping you develop your creative skills through: workshops. presenting your work for peer discussion.
This practice-based and industry-focused course - one of the ten best in the UK according to The Times Good University Guide 2024 - will introduce you to the intricacies of writing, including plot, characterisation and narrative study, and will equip you with work-ready skills for the many writing and writing-related industries.. You will develop your skills and talent as a writer through ...
Whether you like writing poetry, prose fiction, short stories, film scripts, game narratives, children's books or young adult (YA) novels, we invite you to join us on our mission to write to make a difference. Enquire online. +44 (0)1392 72 72 72. Discover MA Creative Writing at the University of Exeter.
The best UK universities for creative writing include the University of Leeds, Strathclyde, Warwick, Birmingham, and more. Each university has its strengths, values, and unique qualities to offer you. We know your struggles. It takes a lot of work and research to determine which university to apply to.
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The Creative Writing MFA (Master of Fine Arts) is designed for serious writers who would like to build upon their publishing record or become a published writer. You will become part of Kingston's thriving community, with events such as readings, lectures from published authors, editors and agents, masterclasses and enriching discussions.
Fees for entry in 2025 have not yet been set. For reference, the fees for the academic year beginning September 2024 were as follows: MA (full-time) UK students (per annum): £12,500. International, including EU, students (per annum): £26,000. MA (part-time) UK students (per annum): £6,250. International, including EU, students (per annum ...
MA Creative Writing and the Writing Industries allows graduates to refine and apply their writing skills in today's context, and gain a comprehensive knowledge of the writing industries, including publishing pathways, professional practices, and cultural communications. Postgraduate study in English at Loughborough University is for graduates ...
"It's only by writing, not dreaming about it, that we develop our own style." - PD James In 1970, the UK higher education sector unleashed its first ever MA in Creative Writing; a pioneering programme that sought to teach students the art of words, the craft of language, the undying profession of storytelling.It was the first time prospective students could choose to hone their passion ...
Creative writing courses aren't just for budding authors, but could suit anyone who wants to develop their written and spoken communication skills for careers such as advertising, publishing or journalism. You study novels, poetry, plays and screenplays for inspiration, develop your own writing skills and learn to critically assess your own work.
1. University of Leeds. Bringing you the first highly regarded school in our list, the University of Leeds is ranked among the top universities in the world. Established in 1904 it is among the biggest in the United Kingdom, Leeds attracts students from nearly 170 nations annually.
Below is a list of best universities in London ranked based on their research performance in Creative Writing. A graph of 120K citations received by 9.53K academic papers made by 20 universities in London was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.
Studying Creative Writing in United Kingdom is a great choice, as there are 118 universities that offer Master's degrees on our portal. Over 551,000 international students choose United Kingdom for their studies, which suggests you'll enjoy a vibrant and culturally diverse learning experience and make friends from all over the world.
Diploma in Creative Writing. Our two-year, part-time Undergraduate Diploma in Creative Writing allows you to strengthen your ability in four major areas of literary activity — prose, poetry, drama and analytical reading — as well as the chance to specialise in the medium of your choice. You can now opt to take this course mostly online.
Music 1046. Painting and Drawing 1066. Performing arts 1020. Photography 1196. Sculpture 1066. Singing and Vocal Performance 1091. UX/UI Desgin 1001. Below is the list of 100 best universities for Creative Writing in the World ranked based on their research performance: a graph of 3.39M citations received by 403K academic papers made by these ...
The University of Winchester ranks in the top 10 in the UK for graduates in employment or further study according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023, HESA. Pre-approved for a Masters. If you study a Bachelor Honours degree with us, you will be pre-approved to start a Masters degree at Winchester.
University of Leicester. (4.4) PhD study in the area of Creative Writing is offered by the School of English at Leicester and this means becoming part of an exciting and Read more... 3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK) 6 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK) Apply now Visit website Request info. View 3 additional courses.
The Leeds Trinity University Business School (LTUBS) has joined the Business Graduates Association (BGA) as a Bronze Member., 'Training to be a Primary School Teacher: The CCF and Beyond' is due for release in Spring 2024, ready for the 2024/25 academic year., Leeds Trinity University's Trinity Conference 2024, titled 'Reawakening the Catholic Vision', will take place on Saturday 17 February ...