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• Creative Writing & Publishing
• Study Programmes

Study Creative Writing & Publishing

Script Writing (Micro-credential)

Love films? If you want to write for the screen, this micro-credential is a great place to start. It provides an introduction to the craft of visual writing and the process of developing a screenplay. You’ll create your own script outline, and write a short film script – a good starting point into writing for the film industry

Writing for Children (Micro-credential)

Have you always wanted to write for children? Teaching material from renowned children’s author, Joy Cowley, forms the core of this module, which guides you through the requirements of writing for young people and introduces you to the landscape of Aotearoa children’s authors. The course’s main focus is on writing chapter books and short stories for children, but you’ll also have the opportunity to explore myth, folktales and fairy stories, children’s non-fiction, and writing a picture book text.

Writing Poetry (Micro-credential)

Are you interested in poetry? This course will take you through varied forms of writing poetry and introduce you to the Aotearoa poetry community. By the end of the course, you'll have explored different ways of seeing, created a portfolio of your own work, and gained a good understanding of what makes poetry work and how to critique it.

• 8 weeks, part-time

Writing Short Fiction (Micro-credential)

Are you interested in writing original short stories? This course will take you through the many varied forms of applying techniques for writing original short stories and developing critiquing skills in this genre.

Graduate Diploma in Publishing (Applied)

Learn the publishing process by working on real books with real publishing clients. Work as a publishing team as you gain skills in editing, project management, typesetting and publicity for print and digital media. Benefit from regular industry speakers and complete two work placements in publishing companies.

New Zealand Diploma in Writing for Creative Industries

Learn the craft of writing through exercises, workshops, course reading, regular feedback, but most of all through writing itself. Develop skills in genres including short fiction, non-fiction, scriptwriting and poetry. This online programme offers flexibility through eightweek blocks of teaching, which means you can study around other commitments.

• 1 year, full-time, part-time (study options)

Grammar and Punctuation (Micro-credential)

Delve into the world of grammar and punctuation with this micro-credential. Expand your knowledge of how language is structured. Study flexibly by allowing this course to fit around your other commitments.

Copy-Editing 1 (Micro-credential)

Get copy-editing skills that are highly valuable in print-based and digital workplaces. Study flexibly by allowing this course to fit around your other commitments.

There are no programmes available for your selection. Please try selecting another campus location.

Give yourself credit

Use the knowledge and skills you already have to fast-track your qualification with minimum cost. Workplace-learning, volunteering, professional development, other provider qualifications and online courses or units can be recognised as prior learning and put towards your future diploma or degree.

Chat to us     Find out more

See more about our Creative Writing and Publishing

The highly regarded Whitireia Publishing Programme is New Zealand’s top training course for publishing. It teaches the whole publishing process, from manuscript to bookstore. Developed and run in partnership with publishers, the course is modelled on an apprenticeship. At its heart are practical experience, mentoring and industry contacts.

Our graduates populate the book trade and publishing sector in New Zealand. They have roles in all the major trade publishing houses as publishers, marketing managers, content developers, book editors, publicists and much more. They work for educators, promoters, policymakers and arts organisations. Many run their own businesses.

Perhaps above all, the publishing programme becomes a touchstone for graduates, a challenging and rewarding year during which they make friends for life.

Celebrating 30 years of Publishing

To celebrate 30 years of Publishing education at Whitireia, tutors Odessa Owens and Theresa Crewdson called for contributions from the industry for a one-of-a-kind release: Everything I Know About Books: An insider look at publishing in Aotearoa . 75 writers, many of whom are graduates, contributed to the publication, sharing their wisdom, their tips and typos, and their successes, ambitions and predictions. The book is available to purchase from bookstores across the country, and from the Whitireia and WelTec website from Tuesday 12 October. There are also public author events being held across the motu.

Hear from our graduates and industry publishers

Student projects, the heart of the publishing programme is the apprenticeship experience..

Students on the Diploma in Publishing (Applied) are mentored through a range of publications while they study, putting together books and digital publications with industry partners.

Best viewed on desktop, for mob ile please view in landscape.

Scholarships and Support

The publishing programme is involved in various initiatives that support students to undertake the course and help them continue to develop their skills after graduation.

Whitireia and WelTec (Te Pūkenga) launch first micro-credentials for the publishing industry

Pacific educator and author Lisa Fuemana-Foa'i awarded 2022 Māori and Pacific Publishing Scholarship

Whitireia student wins inaugural Māori and Pacific scholarship from publisher Penguin Random House NZ

Newsletters.

November 2023: Launches and panels and parties, oh my!

July 2023: Everything We Know...

November 2022 : Titiro whakamuri, kōkiri whakamua | Look back and reflect so you can move forward

August 2022 : Fab jobs, fan moments and fantastic grads

May 2022 : Book yarns and publishing qualms

November 2021 : Parties, publications and pukapuka reviews

August 2021 : Oh, the publishing houses you’ll go (to)

May 2021 : Meet the new faces of publishing

December 2020 : Celebrating te ao pukapuka

September 2020 : Back in class – Good Books and bad landlords…

June 2020 : Studying publishing in the time of Covid-19

November 2019 : The style issue – partying in style and some serious stylish books

August 2019 : Students in the wild and stories from the wild in NZBC lecture

May 2019 : Presidential Q&A, students and a stormtrooper

Meet the Publishing team

Odessa Owens

Senior Tutor

Theresa Crewdson

See all staff profiles

All staff of the publishing programme come directly from industry, where they honed their skills and knowledge. Most are still working for publishers alongside their teaching.

The programme also draws on the expertise of numerous specialist tutors and industry speakers. Many publishing professionals take classes through the year – whether to teach a core part of the curriculum or take a specialist lesson or simply as a visiting speaker.

Publishing Advisory Committee

The publishing programme operates under the guidance of an advisory committee, made up of representatives from industry, the community and the polytechnic, including a student representative.

The committee ensures that the programme is teaching the skills and knowledge that employers see as useful and relevant to the needs of their businesses.

Current members

Alex Collins , Chief Executive,  Lift Education

Sarah Rennie , Marketing Manager, Gecko Press

Chris Murray , Head of Content Management,  LexisNexis NZ Limited

Craig Gamble , Publishing Manager, Te Herenga Waka University Press

Melanie Laville-Moore , Managing Director, Allen & Unwin New Zealand

Pania Tahau-Hodges , Publishing Manager,  Huia Publishers

Chris Tse , Editor and Communications Advisor,  Office of the Auditor-General  (and winner of the Best First Book Award for Poetry at the 2016  Ockham New Zealand Book Awards )

Graduate Success Stories

Claudia's story

Cadence’s story: Publishing graduate at Massey University Press

Follow whitireia publishing.

Creative Writing 

Meet the creative writing team.

Anna Taylor

Donna Banicevich-Gera

Latest stories.

‘Anything can happen in fantasy’: Infinite possibilities a reality for young Wellington author

Sarah-Kate's story: Creative Writing graduate

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• Master of Creative Writing - Massey University

Master of Creative Writing

Massey university, subject area.

English Language

Qualification

Masters Degree Level 9

Duration "> Tooltip

Total student fees

over 1 Year - details

Check out Fees Free to see whether you are eligible for a year of fees-free study or two years industry training. Contact your provider to confirm your study options meet the criteria.

About the course

What can i expect out of this qualification.

Graduates will have the capacity and potential to produce creative writing of a professional standard. Graduates will also have the capacity to write critical reviews and essays at an appropriate level of accomplishment, and will have an understanding of the publishing or production processes appropriate to their chosen genre(s).

Key Information for Students

Entry requirements, minimum requirements "> tooltip.

A Bachelor of Art, in Creative Writing, Expressive Arts, English, or equivalent, with a minimum B average over the 200 and 300-level majoring courses or; or a Bachelor of Arts with Honours, or a Postgraduate Diploma in Arts in Creative Writing, Expressive Arts, English, or equivalent, with a minimum B average over the qualification; plus a portfolio of work; a selction process applies.

Detailed requirements

See provider website for more details about entry to this qualification.

Tuition Fees

StudyLink website – information about student loans

A Compulsory Student Services Fee may be charged, see your provider for details.

Student Success

Successful course completions N/A Tooltip

National Graduate Outcomes

Outcomes for students who completed qualifications at the same level and in the same subject area, three years after completion:

All KIS information is the most recent data available and relates to domestic students only.

Click here for more information about the Key Information for Students

Contact details

Main campus office.

Free phone: 0800 627 739 Phone: (06) 356 9099 Fax: (06) 350 2263 Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.massey.ac.nz

Where does this information come from?

The Key Information for Students data is compiled by the Tertiary Education Commission based on information provided by tertiary education providers and the Ministry of Education. Remember to check the provider’s website for further details.

NZQA supplies all other information based on material from the provider.

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Creative Writing – Bachelor of Arts

Unlock your imagination, expand your creative thinking and polish your writing.

Planning information

Entry requirements.

• Fees & scholarships
• Careers & jobs

International students

Where you can study.

International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.

Definition of New Zealand citizens and residents

Specialise in Creative Writing for your Bachelor of Arts at Massey

Inspiration, communication and vocation are at the heart of Massey’s exciting Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing).

It offers you the chance to develop your writing so that it’s pitch-perfect for a variety of audiences. You’ll enhance your critical thinking and master a wide range of transferable communication skills while pursuing your own creative vision.

Choose your canvas

Creative writing offers you flexibility in writing original work in a variety of genres. Learn to write fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction, travel writing, and scripts for the stage and screen.

Learn from published authors

Our award-winning teachers are internationally acclaimed writers in their own right. They teach from their own first-hand experience in moving from idea to page, polishing their work and sending it off to be published or performed.

Your third year has a vocational focus. You’ll develop your writing in a genre of your choice and learn how to submit it for publishing. You’ll also have the opportunity to gain hands-on editing and publishing experience, or facilitate a creative writing arts project in your local community.

Get published

Students who have taken our creative writing courses have gone on to publish poems, stories, essays and books as well as winning some of New Zealand’s top writing prizes. Why not join them?

A Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing is a good fit if you:

• are seeking opportunities to get creative, get writing and get published
• want practical writing experience in a range of genres
• enjoy critical and creative thinking.

If you study full time, in the first year you’ll take eight 15-credit courses, making a total of 120 credits.

If you wish to study over two semesters, you should aim for 60 credits per semester. You may be able to take some courses at summer school if you wish. Make sure you include courses that are prerequisites for the next level of courses you wish to study.

You need to pass five courses at 300-level for your BA. One of these ( 230310 ) is in the compulsory core and three are required for your major. If you are not taking a double major or a minor, you will need to take one 300-level elective course to meet this requirement.

About this major

The Creative Writing major in the Bachelor of Arts consists of 120 credits.

Completing a minor is optional. Minors increase the breadth of your degree. They give you extra knowledge, attributes and capabilities.

A minor must be in a different subject from your major.

A Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing) with a minor

You may choose a minor from the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Business or Bachelor of Science. If the minor is from another degree the regulations of that qualification will apply.

A creative writing minor (for students who are studying a different degree) 

If you are not studying towards a BA (Creative Writing) and wish to complete a minor in creative writing see the BA regulations for requirements.  

• More on minors

Official regulations

To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations for this qualification .

You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees, Undergraduate Diplomas, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas and Graduate Certificates.

Returning students

For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.

In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may be no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.

Please contact us through the Enquire button on this page if you have any questions.

Courses you can enrol in

Course planning key, core courses for the bachelor of arts.

As well as the specialisation courses listed below, this qualification has core courses that you will need to complete.

Bachelor of Arts core courses

Creative Writing courses

Compulsory courses.

An exploration of the processes involved in writing poetry and short stories. Students learn the fundamental elements of craft, such as metaphor, structure and plot, through the close reading of published poetry and fiction, through their own practice as creative writers, and through providing and receiving workshop feedback.

An intermediate-level introduction to the craft of nonfiction writing in a variety of genres, with a particular focus on the application of techniques usually associated with fiction and poetry to nonfiction material.

Restrictions: 139327

An advanced study of the process of writing that consolidates knowledge of creative writing craft, expands understanding of genre, and analyses aesthetic and/or cultural aspects of published manuscripts across genres. The first portion of an envisioned full-length creative manuscript will be drafted with an emphasis on the critical evaluation of its aesthetic and/or cultural implications.

Prerequisites: Any 200-level Creative Writing course

Subject courses

An investigation of human creativity that involves the study of creative practice and the making of original works of performance, film and writing.

Students will receive a grounding in the skills of writing experimental theatre and an opportunity to employ these skills in the creation of original scripts.

An intermediate-level introduction to the craft of writing targeted at ‘middle readers’ – roughly 9-13 years – across a variety of forms.

A creative writing course in which students develop and advance poetry skills within the major modes of lyric poetry and within the context of a more advanced engagement with fundamental elements of craft. In addition to reading poetry and critical essays on the genre, students will write original poetry and critically review their own work and the work of peers.

An intermediate-level study of the craft of fiction, investigating a range of forms by means of creative production, workshopping and peer review.

A study of the relationships between creative writing and ecological concerns, covering a range of contemporary forms from eco-fictions, nonfictions, or poetry, to nature writing, to animal stories. It engages students in the workshopped production of original creative work.

Restrictions: 139381

An in-depth study of the skills, formats, technique and terminology of professional script writing, with emphasis on the adaptation of traditional approaches across the diversity of contemporary media.

A study of travel writing, involving both critical and ideological analysis and creative writing developed from the students' own field work.

An exploration of the poetics and politics of experimentation and subversion in contemporary fiction and metafiction including analysis of the work (both creative and critical) of major practitioners, theorists and original student compositions.

The course provides an applied service learning project in the disciplines of expressive arts and media studies. Working collaboratively, students apply skills in theatre, performance, film-making, creative writing, media practice or mixed media to developing a creative response to a social issue or community need.

Prerequisites: Any one of 139123 , 139104 , 139133 , 154204 , or 139223

In this course, students study and experience the principles, processes and practice of publishing, through the co-production of an online publication. Key concepts include teamwork, co-production, theme selection, peer review, production scheduling, source selection, and online publishing.

Prerequisites: Any 200-level course with a 139 prefix or 219202

A study of contemporary Oceanic (Māori and Pasifika) literature in English contextualised in relation to customary and pre-colonial Oceanic literatures, narratives, and storytelling methods.

Elective subject courses

A study of short stories, novellas and novels from the last 50 years emphasising the varieties of award-winning fiction.

An introduction to the nature and functions of literary texts and the ways in which they are invested with meaning, with a focus on the skills necessary for reading and writing critically about them.

Restrictions: 139171

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

• Massey University entry requirements

Specific requirements

There are no specific entry requirements for the Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing), outside of university admission regulations.

English language requirements

To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.

•  Massey University English language requirements

If you have already completed a bachelor degree

If you have already completed a bachelor degree you may replace 230111 Tū Kupu: Writing and Inquiry or  230112 Tū Arohae: Critical Thinking with courses of your choice. You will need to apply for replacement courses via a  Special permission  request in your portal and you will need to attach evidence of your completed degree with the request.

English language skills

If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.

Can't meet the entry requirements?

If you need to do a course before you start your qualification, there may be options for you in Summer School.

• Summer School

Fees and scholarships

Fees, student loans and free fees scheme.

Your tuition fees may be different depending on the courses you choose. Your exact fees will show once you have chosen your courses.

There will also be some compulsory non-tuition fees and for some courses, there may also be charges for things such as study resources, software, trips and contact workshops.

• Get an estimate of the tuition fees for your qualification
• View a list of non-tuition fees that may be payable

Already know which courses you're going to choose?

You can view fees for the courses that make up your qualification on the course details pages.

• Course search

Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme

You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.

The New Zealand Government offers fees-free tertiary study for eligible domestic students. Find out more about the scheme and your eligibility on the Fees Free website. To use the site's eligibility checking tool, you will need your National Student Number.

Current and returning Massey students can find their National Student Number in the student portal.

• Student loans ( StudyLink )
• Student portal

Scholarship and award opportunities

• William Broughton Bursary in New Zealand Literary Studies

Fees disclaimer

This information is for estimation purposes only. Actual fees payable will be finalised on confirmation of enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, all fees shown are quoted in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax, if any. Before relying on any information on these pages you should also read the University's Disclaimer Notice .

Careers and job opportunities

A Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing) is one of the most creative and enriching degrees you can do. Employers seek out BA students for their lateral and analytical thinking, communication skills and creative ability.

There are various possibilities for creative writing graduates, including:

• writing for television, magazines, blogs or the book-publishing industry
• corporate or non-profit freelance writing
• creative arts project coordination
• inter-arts collaboration for arts festivals
• writing for public relations
• creative writing in advertising
• working in communications
• being a journalist
• performance-related writing and production
• writing and advising on government policy
• writing for social media.

New Zealand is a great place to study. Massey University’s reputation is supported by our international rankings, accreditations and associations. We are rated five star plus by the QS World University Rankings.

• Find out more about life as an international student at Massey, applying to Massey and getting help .
• Entry requirements for international students .

Plan your courses

View your course options and plan your study using our course planner.

Related study options

Creative writing – graduate certificate in arts.

With a Graduate Certificate in Arts (Creative Writing) you’ll examine inspiring creative writing and start developing your own.

Creative Writing – Diploma in Arts

With a Diploma in Arts (Creative Writing) you will examine inspiring creative works and explore your personal creative approach through poetry, life writing, scriptwriting, and fiction.

Creative Writing – Graduate Diploma in Arts

Examine great creative works and start writing your own. The Graduate Diploma in Arts (Creative Writing) will give you the equivalent of an undergraduate major in creative writing without completing a second bachelor’s degree.

English – Graduate Certificate in Arts

Understand how words shape our world with the Graduate Certificate in Arts (English).

English – Bachelor of Arts (Honours)

With Massey’s Bachelor of Arts (Honours) (English), you can take your undergraduate study of English further.

English – Bachelor of Arts

Develop your passion for literature. Understand how great writing has shaped identity, culture, and society.

English – Diploma in Arts

Do you have a passion for literature? The Diploma in Arts (English) will give you versatile and transferable skills that can open many career pathways.

English – Postgraduate Diploma in Arts

A Massey Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (English) will help you understand how language shapes the world we live in.

English – Master of Arts

With Massey’s Master of Arts (English) you can build on your undergraduate study and follow your passion for literature. Complete advanced research into an aspect of English, rhetoric or theatre studies.

English – Graduate Diploma in Arts

The Graduate Diploma in Arts (English) will give you the equivalent of an undergraduate major in English without having to complete a second bachelor’s degree.

Master of Creative Writing – MCW

Use your passion for writing to transform yourself and the world through an intense exploration of language.

Creating writing teachers

Professor Bryan Walpert

Bryan is the author of three poetry collections, most recently Native Bird; a novel, Late Sonata; a collection of short stories, Ephraim’s Eyes, and two scholarly books, Resistance to Science in Contemporary American Poetry and Poetry and Mindfulness: Interruption to a Journey. He has received writing awards in New Zealand, Australia and the US.

• View Bryan Walpert's profile

Professor Elspeth Tilley

Elspeth is a three-time winner of the British Theatre Challenge international playwriting competition and a three-time official playwright for Climate Change Theatre Action. Her award-winning plays have been published and produced globally including off-Broadway and off-West End. Elspeth received the 2018 College of Humanities & Social Sciences award for Sustained Excellence in Teaching.

• View Elspeth Tilley's profile

Dr Gigi Fenster

Gigi's first novel , The Intentions Book , was a finalist in the New Zealand book awards and was longlisted for the IMPAC Dublin Award and Commonwealth Prize. Her second novel , A Good Winter, won the Michael Gifkins Award and was a finalist in the Ockham Fiction Awards. Her memoir, Feverish , was born out of her creative writing PhD. Gigi is currently working on a children's nonfiction book and novel.

• View Gigi Fenster's profile

Associate Professor Robert Sullivan

Robert has won the 2022 Lauris Edmond Memorial Award for his contribution to New Zealand poetry, the Montana New Zealand Book Award for co-editing Whetu Moana: Contemporary Polynesian Poems in English, the Māori Literature Award for co-editing Puna Wai Kōrero: An Anthology of Māori Poetry in English, and the New Zealand Post Children’s Book of the Year.

• View Robert Sullivan's profile

Dr Thom Conroy

Thom is currently a Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing and is also Editor-in-Chief of the literary journal Headland .

Thom has authored The Salted Air and The Naturalist (Penguin Random-House) and is editor of the personal essay collection Home (Massey University Press). He has won the Katherine Anne Porter Fiction Prize and has published short fiction in literary journals.

• View Thom Conroy's profile

Whiti Hereaka

Whiti Hereaka is a novelist and playwright based in Wellington. She is the author of four novels: The Graphologist’s Apprentice , and the award-winning YA novels Bugs , Legacy and her latest novel Kurangaituku . Legacy won the New Zealand Children’s and Young Adult Book Award for YA fiction in 2019 and Kurangaituku won the 2022 Jann Medlicott Acorn Award for fiction at the Ockham New Zealand Book Awards.

• View Whiti Hereaka's profile

Useful planning information

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Key information for students

Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions. Learn more on careers.govt.nz

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Aotearoa New Zealand Writing Courses – in-person and online

See nzsa’s learning hub for details of nzsa’s web workshop programme, writer toolkit modules and nzsa roadshows..

NZSA Writer Toolkit – The NZSA Writer Toolkit is our professional development offering, with multiple modules released. Our Writer Toolkit is an online learning platform that offers writers a wide range of low-cost or free modules on writing and the writing life by our leading authors and industry professionals. All sessions comprise of static content you can work through alone, or with your writing group or regional hub meeting. Each module contains notes, exercises, and suggestions for further reading on the topics. New Writer Toolkits are produced each year. Some modules are free to all, and members receive a free Writer Toolkit voucher with annual membership renewals.

NZSA Web Workshops –  – a series of webinars to enable ongoing professional development. Online Two-hour interactive masterclasses. See the link for the latest workshops on offer. they fwriters and industry professionals offering virtual workshops on topics such as self-publishing, romance writing, poetry, structure, short stories, pitching, contract advice, dystopian writing and the business of writing. All NZSA Webworkshops are hosted on Zoom.

NZSA Roadshows – Regional Roadshows brings professional development to the regions. Each one-day conference offers local writers access to professional development, masterclasses, workshops and panel discussions taught by experienced writers from across Aotearoa. These events are organised in partnership with local NZSA branches to build collegiality, connection and new opportunities for professional development in local settings. The events are lively, inclusive, stimulating, and practical and offer something for writers across the spectrum. Sessions cover craft, publishing, marketing, and much more!

NZSA annual Mentorship and Assessment Programmes – Each year Creative NZ supports NZSA to run four mentorship and assessment programmes: The NZSA Mentor Programme , Complete MS Assessment programme, the NZSA Youth Mentorship programme and Startwrite quick assessment programme.

Te Papa Tupu – Māori Literature Trust   – Te Papa Tupu is a highly contested writers incubator designed specifically for emerging Māori writers. Every two years, six writers are given the opportunity to be mentored by acclaimed authors and editors. Throughout the course of the programme, writers work with their mentors to develop their manuscripts for publication.

IPED – The Institute of Professional Editors Limited (IPEd) is the professional association for Australian and New Zealand editors. It exists to advance the profession of editing and to support and promote Australian and New Zealand editors.

Massey University – this university offers diverse 1-2 semester courses in writing which can be taken individually, or as part of a degree. Subjects include journalism, poetry, travel, creative and media script writing. Following this, the Masters in Creative Writing is available online with tutorage from established authors. It allows writers to focus on their own work, while improving their craft skills.

NZ Writers’ College   – offers a variety of online writing courses with one-on-one tutoring from established writers. Courses cover journalism, creative writing, business and specialist areas such as editing and blogs.

NorthTec – offers three diploma levels online. Level 5 covers every genre of fiction or non-fiction writing you can think of, including writing for children in both Te Reo Maori and English, and also an editing paper for writers. Level 6 takes the student’s choice of genre to the next level, be it poetry, short stories, romance writing, science fiction, fantasy, women’s fiction, non-fiction, literary fiction, memoir or scripts, and includes business skills, epublishing and professional editing. Level 7 allows students to focus on their own work, improving their craft skills with mentorship from established authors. Previous students have completed graphic novels, novels, memoirs, family histories, Maori legends, historical fiction, short stories, travel pieces, and an interactive game.

The Creative Hub – Taught by some of New Zealand’s leading writers, most of the courses are venue only, but the two-month Introduction to Creative Writing has an online option.

The School for Young Writers  – offers a wide range of correspondence courses and mentor programmes for writers 8-19 yrs.

Waiariki Institute of Technology – offers a range of courses from one semester to one year including business, Maori, scriptwriting, travel and a diverse selection of fiction options. There are also courses covering marketing, publishing and writing for the web.

Whitireia – offers courses in creative writing, journalism, publishing, and editing from diploma to bachelor level. Some can be completed part time. In 2023 they have added Micro-credentials in editing.

Write   – Short, introductory level courses in grammar and general clarity for business situations

NorthTec – offers three diploma levels online. Level 5 covers every genre of fiction or non-fiction writing you can think of, including writing for children in both Te Reo Maori and English, and also an editing paper for writers. Level 6 takes the student’s choice of genre to the next level, be it poetry, short stories, romance writing, science fiction, fantasy, women’s fiction, non-fiction, literary fiction, memoir or scripts, and includes business skills, epublishing and professional editing. Level 7 allows students to focus on their own work, improving their craft skill with mentorship from established authors. Previous students have completed graphic novels, novels, memoirs, family histories, Maori legends, historical fiction, short stories, travel pieces and an interactive game.

AUT – Auckland University of Technology – provides a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing which explores a variety of genres, and also a Masters in either Creative Writing or Screenwriting. Tutors and mentors include James George and Siobhan Harvey.

Massey University – this university offers diverse 1-2 semester courses in writing which can be taken individually, or as part of a degree. Subjects include journalism, poetry, travel, creative and media script writing. The courses vary from campus to campus, but are all available online. This includes the Master in Creative Writing, which allows writers to focus on their own work, blending literature studies and craft skills with tutorage from established authors.

The Creative Hub  – offers a range of writing related courses, from half day through to a thirty week course involving master classes from established writers. Courses include creative writing, self-publishing and fiction/memoirs.

University of Auckland  – offers a range of English, drama, screen and creative writing courses. The Masters of Creative Writing, taught by Paula Morris, runs for a full university year during which writers work intensively on their own project. Limited to twelve participants, the MCW includes craft skills and exercises, weekly critique workshops, masterclasses with visiting established writers (previously including Eleanor Catton and Ben Okri), and seminars with representatives from the writing industry.

University of Waikato  – has a range of writing major papers which include academic and creative writing with additional screen, media and theatre studies also available.

Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec)  – offers a range of writing papers at degree and postgraduate level. Level 6 and 7 papers can be taken as part of a Communications degree, or as a separate Certificate of Proficiency. These include: Creative Writing Workshop, Writing Project (both taught in evening), Screenwriting, Advanced Screenwriting, Feature Writing and Professional and Technical Communication (online). Wintec also offers the Level 5 National Diploma in Journalism, a Graduate Diploma in Communication (with a major in Professional Writing), and post-graduate Honours and Masters qualifications with an emphasis on research and generation of a major piece of work. Post-graduate publications have included edited creative anthologies, plays, memoir and family histories.

Central Districts

Massey University – this university offers diverse 1-2 semester courses in writing which can be taken individually, or as part of a degree. Subjects include journalism, poetry, travel, creative and media script writing. The courses vary from campus to campus, but are all available online. This includes the Master in Creative Writing, which allows writers to focus on their own specific project, whilst blending literature studies and craft skills with tutorage from established authors.

Western Institute of Technology  – is situated in Taranaki and offers a National Diploma in Journalism.

Victoria University Wellington – this university has an established creative writing programme (Institute of Modern Letters) with a diverse selection of writing courses, from undergraduate level to PhD. Courses include poetry, short fiction, writing for children and Iowa workshops in poetry and prose. Tutors include Emily Perkins, Hinemoana Baker, David Armstrong and Ashleigh Young, among others.

Whitireia Community Polytechnic   – has a range of full and part time courses in creative writing, also English skills and its National Diploma in Journalism. Writing for radio is included the Radio Journalism diploma. Write  – has a variety of one-off writing workshops designed to help with writing for business, blogs and websites.

The School for Young Writers  – offers a wide range of courses and programmes for writers 8-19 yrs. The school holds weekend, after school, and in school classes.

University of Canterbury  – in addition to a range of courses in journalism, and a selection of creative writing papers (not available every year), this university has the Master in Fine Arts – Creative Writing. Here, writers undertake a single larger project as well as a substantial essay and oral exam.

Hagley Writers’ Institute – based in Christchurch, this offers a part-time year-long course for writers, working in both prose and poetry, with a portfolio submitted at the end of the year. Working in small groups, the classes meet on Saturdays for support, advice and critiquing with tutors. Hagley Writers’ Institute offers both a foundation and advanced level programme, and is also available online on a Tuesday evening for students throughout New Zealand. Our current tutors are Melanie Dixon and Joanna Preston, with guest tutors and mentors also contributing to the course across the year.

The Poetry Class – regular and bespoke short poetry classes in Christchurch and greater Canterbury, taught by Joanna Preston.

Otago/Southland

Otago University – A number of semester-long classes at undergraduate level are offered in Creative Writing.

Creative Writing Dunedin  – a range of courses taught in small classes in Dunedin, from one-day Saturday courses to 8 to 10 week courses in Memoir, Fiction, Poetry and completing a Manuscript.

The Wanaka Autumn Art School – a 5-day annual writing course for beginner to more advanced fiction writers, currently tutored by Jillian Sullivan.

Online Courses (Australia)

OpenColleges – Providing specialised writing, editing and media-related training to aspiring authors, editors and journalists for more than a quarter of a century, the Australian College of Journalism can deliver the expert tuition required to polish your skills and acquire the commercial savvy you need to succeed.

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Adelphi University

Poetry: Jan-Henry Gray, Maya Marshall Prose: Katherine Hill, René Steinke, Igor Webb

Albertus Magnus College

Poetry: Paul Robichaud Fiction: Sarah Harris Wallman Nonfiction: Eric Schoeck

Alma College

Poetry: Leslie Contreras Schwartz, Jim Daniels, Benjamin Garcia Fiction: Karen E. Bender, Shonda Buchanan, Dhonielle Clayton, S. Kirk Walsh Creative Nonfiction: Anna Clark, Matthew Gavin Frank, Donald Quist, Robert Vivian

American University

Poetry: Kyle Dargan, David Keplinger Fiction: Dolen Perkins-Valdez, Stephanie Grant, Patricia Park Nonfiction: Rachel Louise Snyder

Antioch University

Poetry: Victoria Chang Prose: Lisa Locascio

Arcadia University

Poetry: Genevieve Betts, Michelle Reale Fiction: Stephanie Feldman, Joshua Isard, Tracey Levine, Eric Smith Literature: Matthew Heitzman, Christopher Varlack, Elizabeth Vogel, Jo Ann Weiner

Poetry: Genevieve Betts, Michelle Reale Fiction: Stephanie Feldman, Joshua Isard, Tracey Levine, Eric Smith

Arizona State University

Poetry: Sally Ball, Natalie Diaz, Alberto Álvaro Ríos, Safiya Sinclair Fiction: Matt Bell, Jenny Irish, Tara Ison, Mitchell Jackson, T. M. McNally Creative Nonfiction: Sarah Viren

Ashland University

Poetry: Dexter Booth, Marcelo Hernandez Castillo, Adam Gellings, Tess Taylor, Vanessa Angélica Villareal Fiction: Kirstin Chen, Edan Lepucki, Sarah Monette, Nayomi Munaweera, Vi Khi Nao, Naomi J. Williams, Kyle Winkler Nonfiction: Cass Donish, Kate Hopper, Lauren Markham, Thomas Mira y Lopez, Lisa Nikolidakis, Terese Mailhot

Augsburg University

Poetry: Michael Kleber-Diggs Fiction: Stephan Eirik Clark, Lindsay Starck Nonfiction: Anika Fajardo  Playwriting: Carson Kreitzer, TyLie Shider, Sarah Myers Screenwriting: Stephan Eirik Clark, Andy Froemke

Ball State University

Poetry: Katy Didden, Mark Neely Fiction: Cathy Day, Sean Lovelace Nonfiction: Jill Christman, Silas Hansen Screenwriting: Rani Deighe Crowe, Matt Mullins

Bard College

Jess Arndt, Shiv Kotecha, Mirene Arsanios, Hannah Black, Trisha Low, Christoper Perez, Julian Talamantez Brolaski, Simone White

Bath Spa University

Poetry: Lucy English, Tim Liardet, John Strachan, Samantha Walton, Gerard Woodward Fiction: Gavin James Bower, Celia Brayfield, Alexia Casale, Anne-Marie Crowhurst, Lucy English, Nathan Filer, Aminatta Forna, Samantha Harvey, Philip Hensher, Steve Hollyman, Emma Hooper, Claire Kendal, Natasha Pulley, Kate Pullinger, C.J. Skuse, Gerard Woodward Nonfiction: Celia Brayfield, Lily Dunn, Richard Kerridge Scriptwriting: Robin Mukherjee

Poetry: Lucy English, Tim Liardet, Gerard Woodward Fiction: Gavin James Bower, Celia Brayfield, Anne-Marie Crowhurst, Nathan Filer, Aminatta Forna, Samantha Harvey, Philip Hensher, Claire Kendal, Natasha Pulley, Kate Pullinger, Gerard Woodward Nonfiction: Lily Dunn, Richard Kerridge

Bay Path University

Mel Allen, Leanna James Blackwell, Jennifer Baker, Melanie Brooks, María Luisa Arroyo Cruzado, Shahnaz Habib, Susan Ito, Karol Jackowski, Yi Shun Lai, Anna Mantzaris, Meredith O’Brien, Mick Powell, Suzanne Strempek Shea, Tommy Shea, Kate Whouley

Bennington Writing Seminars at Bennington College

Poetry: Jennifer Chang, Michael Dumanis, Randall Mann, Craig Morgan Teicher, Mark Wunderlich Fiction: Peter Cameron, Jai Chakrabarti, Stacey D’Erasmo, Monica Ferrell, Rebecca Makkai, Stuart Nadler, Téa Obreht, Moriel Rothman-Zecher, Katy Simpson Smith, Taymour Soomro Nonfiction: Garrard Conley, Sabrina Orah Mark, Spencer Reece, Lance Richardson, Shawna Kay Rodenberg, Hugh Ryan, Greg Wrenn

Binghamton University

Poetry: Tina Chang, Joseph Weil Fiction: Amir Ahmdi Arian, Thomas Glave, Leslie L. Heywood, Claire Luchette, Liz Rosenberg, Jaimee Wriston-Colbert, Alexi Zentner Nonfiction: Amir Ahmdi Arian, Leslie L. Heywood

Bluegrass Writers Studio at Eastern Kentucky University

Poetry: Julie Hensley, Young Smith Fiction: Julie Hensley, Robert Dean Johnson Nonfiction: Robert Dean Johnson, Evan J. Massey Playwriting: Young Smith

Boise State University

Poetry: Martin Corless-Smith, Sara Nicholson, Taryn Schwilling Fiction: Mitch Wieland (Director), Anna Caritj Creative Nonfiction: Chris Violet Eaton, Clyde Moneyhun

Boston University

Poetry: Andrea Cohen, Karl Kirchwey, Robert Pinsky Fiction: Leslie Epstein, Jennifer Haigh, Ha Jin

Boston University—MFA in Literary Translation

Odile Cazenave, Yuri Corrigan, Margaret Litvin, Christopher Maurer, Roberta Micaleff, Robert Pinsky (advising), Stephen Scully, Sassan Tabatabai, J. Keith Vincent, William Waters, Dennis Wuerthner, Cathy Yeh, Anna Zielinska-Elliott

Bowling Green State University

Poetry: Abigail Cloud, Amorak Huey, Sharona Muir, F. Dan Rzicznek, Larissa Szporluk, Jessica Zinz-Cheresnick Fiction: Joe Celizic, Lawrence Coates, Reema Rajbanshi, Michael Schulz

Brigham Young University

Poetry: Kimberly Johnson, Lance Larsen, Michael Lavers, John Talbot Fiction: Chris Crowe, Ann Dee Ellis, Spencer Hyde, Stephen Tuttle Nonfiction: Joey Franklin, Patrick Madden

Brooklyn College

Poetry: Julie Agoos, Ben Lerner Fiction: Joshua Henkin, Madeleine Thien Playwriting: Dennis A. Allen II, Elana Greenfield

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Creative Writing Course .

Introduction ..

Sixteen tutorials show you how to write short stories, long stories, novella, non-fiction stories, personal journal, biography, someone’s life story, stories for children, plays, poetry.

In one year you’ll learn about all* these ways to be a   creative writer.

When you graduate with your   diploma   (graduates may put DipCW after their name) you’ll be ready to specialise in the genre where you’ll concentrate your future writing career. Everything is included in the course fee.

Get Brochure .

Complete the short form below to download the prospectus.

The Enrolment Application  is contained within the download and is also available online . Please email ( [email protected] ) or call if you have any questions. Toll Free:  0800 80 1994  International: +64 9 272 3974.

Testimonials .

I have found the creative writing course fantastic and my writing has improved greatly. My confidence in my writing has improved and I now have the confidence to enter competitions and to not take rejection personally, but instead as an avenue to improve my writing.

The structure and pace of the course was ideal as was the speed of the feedback on assignments. I was hugely impressed with my tutor who was nothing but positive and supportive throughout. I have been able to develop my writing while completing very thoughtful and interesting assignment tasks. (…)

I really enjoyed the creative writing course through NZIBS and would highly recommend it to those who are seeking to go down this path. I appreciate the helpfulness of the administrative staff in guiding me to the best course suited to my needs. I found the course assignments written in an easy(…)

I wish it wasn’t over, I could quite happily keep going, but I know how to keep my writing up now and I have walked away with much more direction. I enjoyed the challenge of pushing myself into my creative space again and really finding what I am capable of as a writer.

I thought this was an excellent course, it was extremely personal and self-fulfilling. The interactions I had with my tutor were always informative and I really looked forward to her feedback each time I submitted a paper. The course opened up new ideas and channels to me. I particularly liked (…)

I loved the Creative Writing course. The assignments were great, and really tested my ability to write in different genres. While completing the course, I wrote my first novel, and have had it published and available for sale on Amazon. And it is selling! I would not have been able to achieve t(…)

I had a great time with the course, kicking my own butt to get tutorials and assignments done. If I was less prone to distraction and maintained my initial dedication I could have done the course in half the time. I liked its accessibility, constant references to New Zealand writers, but also w(…)

For anyone that has no idea about creative writing, this is an excellent course to get you started. I enjoyed all of the course. The tutorials were interesting and stimulating and the course has crystalised my thinking about writing creatively. The course had everything and much, much more than(…)

I got exactly what I hoped for from the course, and the overall experience has helped me in many ways. I feel like a stronger writer, and I’m motivated to achieve my goals. Tina was an exceptional tutor, easy to deal with and incredibly helpful. I felt supported and understood the entire way th(…)

I’ve achieved personal satisfaction. And as an unexpected sideline, it has proved a great help with other forms of non-fiction writing. Tina was very positive and gave excellent practical advice.

I really enjoyed this course. I felt that it helped me to take my writing to the next level, and to make my dream more of a reality. I enjoyed learning about character development and also learning the correct way to structure sentences & dialogue.

The course has helped in providing me with a new pair of eyes under which I review my writing, previously whatever I committed to paper remained as such with no alterations. Now I think a little bit more about the intent, the audience, the words. My tutor was awesome, cannot recommend her any h(…)

This is a great team and there are some fantastic courses. Anyone wishing to learn something new needs to check out their courses. I thoroughly loved mine and when I was struggling to work through a previous course, young Brian Morris recognised my struggles and actually suggested I change it(…)

This course has helped me immensely – the overwhelming sense of achievement, the personal growth I experienced. Letter writing now flows very fast and fluently and is an enjoyable exercise. Even emails are a better standard. My tutor was helpful and understanding. She gave me clear advice and e(…)

I have learnt how to use punctuation and grammar, yet still retain my own style of writing. I had to find a style of writing that described to readers what I was seeing and feeling in the spirit world which I travelled. My tutor related very well to all my objectives and writing problems that I(…)

I’ve finished the Mystery Course which I thoroughly enjoyed and I learnt so much.

When I started the Creative Writing course I had the idea for a book – a crime/thriller – but felt I definitely needed some guidance with regard to writing and everything that goes with it. My tutor Tina Shaw was amazing, her critique of my writing was always helpful and I came away from each t(…)

You Receive .

Tutoring from new zealand industry experts, course books, folder and stationery pack, printed copies of all course materials, cutting edge elearning systems for online learning option, access to online forums to network with other students and tutors, support from admin staff to help you through the learning experience, training from a trusted distance learning institute with over 30 years of experience, tutor profile ..

Joanna Orwin

Writing has been a life-long passion for Joanna, with a first chapter book published in serial form in the Nelson Evening Mail when she was nine followed by high school prizes for poetry and essays. She has written everything from articles for trade and interest journals, interpretation panels and brochures on historical, environmental, and cultural topics, to award-winning fiction and non-fiction books that range from social and environmental history to historical and adventure novels for children, young adults, and adults.

Mentoring and supporting other writers has always been part of her writing life, including critiques for writers during thirty years’ experience as an editor/writing tutor for the Forest Research Institute and Manaaki Whenua-Landcare Research, student mentoring for Hagley Writers’ Institute, and for the last five years has been a mutual critiquer of historical fiction with a small peer group of international writers.

Joanna has been short-listed six times in the Children’s Book of the Year Awards, twice winning her category. Two of her non-fiction titles for adults won New Zealand Awards in History, her historical novel Shifting Currents was short-listed in the 2021 Heritage Book awards, and Riccarton and the Deans family was a finalist in the 2016 Heritage Book Awards. Joanna was the 2009 University of Otago College of Education Children’s Writer in Residence.

Caroline Barron is an author, manuscript assessor and book coach, book reviewer and Creative New Zealand peer assessor. Caroline’s passion for helping writers find their voice and improve their writing craft is at the heart of her work.

Caroline has a Masters in Creative Writing and a journalism degree. She was a trustee of Michael King Writers Centre for four years, where she led the committee responsible for selecting residency recipients, and was on the selection panel for the New Zealand Society of Authors Complete Manuscript Assessment Programme.

Caroline’s book Ripiro Beach: A Memoir of Life After Near Death won the 2020 New Zealand Heritage Literary Award for Non-fiction. Her recent awards also include: 2021 Ngaio Marsh Award nominee (Ripiro Beach); 2020 National Flash Fiction Day (Auckland region winner); 2020 Surrey Hotel Residency (shortlisted); 2018 New Zealand Heritage Literary Award (winner, short prose); 2018 NZSA CompleteMS programme recipient; and winner of the 2015 NZSA LiIian Ida Smith Award. Her website is carolinebarronauthor.com.

Caroline Barron

Tina Shaw is a novelist, short story and freelance writer who lives in Taupo. Her stories have been published in anthologies, literary journals and magazines. Her recent literary novel for adults is The Children’s Pond (Pointer Press). In 2013 she edited the Bateman New Zealand Writer’s Handbook.

She is a winner of the Buddle Findlay Sargeson Fellowship, has held the Creative New Zealand Berlin Writers’ Residency, and was Writer in Residence at the University of Waikato. She has also written junior and young adult fiction, including Into the Hinterland, and its sequel Dogs of the Hinterland as well as books for the ‘Kiwi Bites’ and ‘Mainsails’ series. Her young adult novel About Griffen’s Heart was a Storylines Notable Book in 2010.

Tina has many years experience as a manuscript assessor. She is a mentor and assessor for the NZ Society of Authors. Her website is  www.tinashaw.co.nz

What You'll Learn .

1. how to get the most out of this course., 2. getting started writing letters, journals, emails, 3. writing fiction and non-fiction., 4. planning the plot which excites readers., 5. creating multi-dimensional rounded characters., 6. how dialogue brings your story alive., 7. deciding on your point of view., 8. putting characters in a time and place., 9. how to make your words sing., 10. how to write real life stories., 11. how to write poetry and enjoy it., 12. how to choose the right story genre., 13. how to write for tv, stage and films., 14. how to get funding or paid work as a writer., 15. how to turn first draft into final draft., 16. planning your career as a writer., nzibs writing blog ..

• Navigating the Pitfalls of Social Media with Effective Proofreading In the realm of social media, where immediacy often trumps accuracy, the importance of proofreading cannot be overstated. Social media posts, whether personal o …
• Magical Adventures: A Journey Through Whimsical Tales In the realm of literature, there exists a special niche that captivates the heart like no other—the genre of magical adventures. These whimsical tales transpor …
• Enhancing English Writing: A Guide for Non-Native Speakers Writing in English can be a formidable task for non-native speakers, but with the right approach to editing, it’s possible to craft clear and effective prose. T …
• Beyond Words: The Role of Setting in Creative Writing We often focus on the characters, plot development, and dialogue when discussing storytelling. However, what is often overlooked but plays an essential role in …
• Benefits of Writing Poetry Poetry is often considered a niche art form, reserved for literary aficionados and high school English classes. But did you know that writing poetry can benefit …
• No More Lemons! | Kirsty Geary Someone very wise once said when life gives you lemons, make lemonade (Elbert Hubbard in 1915 specifically, thanks Google). I decided that I’d had my share of s …

We recommend 4-5 hours per week to complete the course in 12 months. If you spend more time, you can finish is sooner. Your aim is to submit at least one assignment a month.

The course fee is $2100. It can be paid in monthly instalments, deposit $350 and then $250 per month. However, if you choose to pay upfront, we give a $200 discount. In addition to tutoring, the fee also covers the cost of materials, books and stationery.

Student fees cover twelve months, from when you started. Students requiring longer must request an extension. An extension period is assessed based on how far a student has progressed with their studies. Our aim is to see you graduate.

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Testimonials for Creative Writing/Publishing/Gender Studies Masters?

I've been researching potentially doing my masters here, and I wanted to know if anyone has gone through/knows about a couple courses I'm looking at:

Master of Arts in Creative Writing - Te Kohinga Auaha at Victoria University

Master of Creative Writing at Massey University

Graduate Diploma in Publishing (Applied) at Whitireia and WelTec (Te Pūkenga)

Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Gender Studies at Otago

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