best creative writing course in uk

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube
• Writing Tips

The 6 Best UK Universities for Creative Writing Degrees

• 13-minute read
• 24th February 2023

A creative writing degree can unlock your potential and give you access to a world of career and writing opportunities. So if you’re an avid writer looking to develop your skills , a university-level degree might be the perfect next step.

But with so many options for studying creative writing in the UK, you might be wondering where (and how) to start. Your course and university choice could impact the skills you develop, the connections you make, and the direction in which your career takes off.

That’s why, in this post, we break down what a creative writing degree is, explain what you need to look out for when choosing a university, and finally, offer an overview of some of the best UK universities for creative writing degrees.

When you’re done reading, we hope you’ll be one step closer to starting your ideal creative writing degree.

What Is a Creative Writing Degree?

A creative writing degree is an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification in creative writing. The degree may focus on creative writing alone, or an institution may combine creative writing with related subjects, such as English language and literature, film studies, or journalism.

The purpose of a creative writing degree is to help students develop their writing skills, establish their authorial voice, and equip themselves with an understanding of different writing styles and techniques. Degree material may also cover practical concerns, such as how the publishing industry works.

Entry requirements for a creative writing course vary, but most institutions will ask for an A-level or the equivalent in English language and/or literature. Creative writing programs cover many forms of writing and can include modules in:

●  Prose

●  Nonfiction

●  Poetry

●  Scriptwriting

●  Writing for an online audience

●  Narrative theory

●  The creative process

●  Getting published

●  Teaching creative writing

As they progress through the course, creative writing students will produce essays alongside a portfolio of creative work, which they will then submit for assessment.

The Benefits of a Creative Writing Degree

While you don’t need a creative writing degree to publish your work, having one can provide you with unique benefits and career opportunities. Creative writing students can expect to:

●  Work with published authors and literary professionals

●  Develop contacts within the publishing industry

●  Experience dealing with and responding to feedback

●  Encounter opportunities to publish their work and establish a reputation as a writer

●  Explore the theory behind writing in depth

You will also develop transferable talents such as time management, communication skills, and self-discipline. These will help you develop your career and stand out to potential employers.

Career Opportunities for Creative Writing Graduates

Becoming an author might be the most obvious career path for creative writing graduates, but you can access plenty of other career choices with your degree. Potential careers include:

●  Editorial assistant

●  Copy editor

●  Publisher

●  Literary agent

●  Copywriter

●  Marketing assistant

●  Journalist

●  Teacher

●  English or creative writing lecturer

Things to Consider When Choosing a University

When you choose a creative writing degree, you’re also choosing the university where you will study. Each institution has its own benefits and approaches, so to make sure you select the right university for you, consider the following factors.

Location and Campus Culture

Some universities are campus-based; that is, lecture halls, accommodations, entertainment, and other facilities are all located in one place. Other institutions are spread across the town or city where they are based.

Each location will have its own atmosphere, so visiting for an open day will help you get a better idea of what attending that university would be like. You should also consider how far away from home you want to study and how easily you can travel between your university and your hometown.

The faculty members of different universities will have their own specialist subjects, research interests, and writing experience. Look for a university where the faculty members specialize in areas of writing you’re interested in. Doing so is especially important if you’re pursuing a PhD in creative writing, as you’ll need to find an appropriate PhD supervisor.

Available Resources and Facilities

While most universities are equipped with a well-stocked library, some may be more suited than others to your subject. A university library that specializes in the humanities, for example, will complement a creative writing degree well.

A university publishing press can also be a useful resource that provides work and publishing opportunities for creative writing students. University publications and magazines are good places to submit writing as well.

Professional Connections and Internships

Some universities incorporate internships into their creative writing degrees. The internships are work placements that will provide you with on-the-job skills and experience and can help you develop professional connections within the publishing industry.

1. University of East Anglia

The University of East Anglia (or UEA) was the first university in the UK to offer degree-level courses in creative writing, introducing an MA in creative writing in 1970, then following suit with the first creative writing PhD in 1987.

UEA’s courses combine creative writing with the study of literature or drama at an undergraduate level. Each of the university’s postgraduate courses focuses on a particular form of writing, such as fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction.

Based in Norwich, a UNESCO City of Literature , UEA is able to provide a variety of resources and opportunities for creative writing students, including:

●  The National Centre for Writing and the British Archive for Contemporary Writing

●  The UEA Publishing Project , which runs three publishing presses and publishes student writing in an annual anthology

●  The UEA Award , which helps employers recognize students’ achievements

●  A variety of writing fellowships

●  Year-round literary events and festivals for students and published authors, such as UEA Live and the Norwich Crime Fiction Festival

Notable UEA alumni include Nobel Prize winner Kazuo Ishiguro and Booker Prize winner Anne Enright .

2. University of Leeds

The University of Leeds is one of the UK’s largest universities and belongs to the Russell Group . Leeds is a campus university, but it’s close to the center of the city.

Leeds offers an interdisciplinary BA in English Literature with Creative Writing , an MA in Creative Writing or Writing for Performance and Digital Media , and research degrees within the School of English or the School of Performance and Cultural Industries.

At the undergraduate level, Leeds offers a diverse range of creative writing modules (including science fiction, crime fiction, nature writing, and travel writing). Published writers and expert researchers teach all these modules.

The university has connections with a variety of creative writing projects, institutions, and festivals, including:

●  Ilkley Literature Festival

●  Leeds Playhouse

●  Leeds Grand Theatre

●  Leeds Poetry Centre

●  The School of Night , a fortnightly poetry seminar

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

●  Brotherton Library, which features extensive archives and a collection of period printing presses

Leeds also has its own theater space, stage@leeds , and publishes the literary magazine Stand , both of which showcase students’ creative work. Notable Leeds alumni include playwright Wole Syonka and poet Geoffrey Hill . The university was also home to author J.R.R. Tolkien, who was a professor in the School of English and contributed poetry to the university’s newsletter.

3. University of Birmingham

Established in the West Midlands in 1900, the University of Birmingham is another campus-based Russell Group university.

Birmingham ranked first for creative writing in the Guardian University Guide 2023 . The university offers a BA in English Literature and Creative Writing or in Film and Creative Writing and an MA in Creative Writing.

The university’s creative writing modules and courses focus on exposing students to a broad range of writing styles and genres while offering workshops and professional skills training aimed at preparing students for the publishing industry.

The university also works closely with the local creative community to provide students with a range of opportunities, including:

●  The Cultural Intern Scheme

●  The Birmingham Project

●  Publishing opportunities with Nine Arches Press and Tindal Street Press

In addition, Birmingham runs the world-renowned Shakespeare Institute in Stratford-upon-Avon, where students can experience unique writing workshops and a residential trip featuring seminars, theater visits, and other events.

For graduating students, the university currently boasts a 90% employment rate within 15 months. Birmingham is the UK’s fourth-most targeted university among the top employers of graduates.

4. University of Warwick

The University of Warwick is a slightly newer university, first offering courses in 1965. Based just outside the city of Coventry, the University of Warwick is a campus university. It is home to the Warwick Arts Centre , a purpose-built facility for cinema, theater, and the visual arts.

The Warwick Writing Program provides the creative writing courses at Warwick. Established in 1996, the project aims to inspire and develop writers internationally. Published authors, poets, and literary translators make up the staff.

Within the program, students can pursue a BA in English and Creative Writing or an MA in Writing . Students can pursue the MA as either a taught degree or a long project, with the aim of producing a long-form piece of writing.

The University of Warwick provides opportunities for students and graduates, such as:

●  The Warwick Prize for Women in Translation

●  The Sunday Times Young Writer Award

●  Workshops at the Warwick Arts Centre

●  Warwick Thursdays (weekly events hosted by publishing industry experts)

●  The option to study abroad for one year

Warwick’s alumni include novelist Sophie Mackintosh , as well as Gboyega Odubanjo and Michael Askew, winners of the Eric Gregory Award.

5. University of Reading

The University of Reading is a 100-year-old institution spread across multiple campuses. It ranks in the top 30 British universities.

Reading offers one of the most diverse and flexible ranges of undergraduate creative writing degrees in the UK. Prospective students can choose to pursue the following BAs:

●  English Literature with Creative Writing

●  Creative Writing and Film

●  Creative Writing and Theatre

●  Creative Writing and Film & Theatre

●  Art and Creative Writing

An MA in Creative Writing is also available and includes modules in the publishing industry and persuasive writing to help students find careers in publishing and journalism.

Reading is home to the Archive of British Publishing and Printing and provides access to collections of rare books and manuscripts that enable students to explore the creative process of famous authors, such as Thomas Hardy. Students also have the opportunity to publish their work in The Canvas , Reading’s online magazine.

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.

Strathclyde also offers postgraduate courses. As the university is Scottish, it offers a Master of Letters ( MLitt ) and a Master of Research ( M. Res .) in place of the more common MA in creative writing. MLitt creative writing students can choose to specialize in a research area and placement of their choice or take a module from other subjects within the School of Humanities.

The University of Strathclyde offers students numerous resources, opportunities, and connections across Glasgow. These include:

●  The Aye Right! Book Festival

●  Blaze , the university’s online creative writing classes

●  Creative Scotland

Strathclyde’s alumni include authors Ali Smith and Andrew O’Hagan . Among the current faculty members are screenwriter Andrew Meehan and poet David Kinloch .

To recap the main points of this post:

●  A creative writing degree will help you develop your writing skills, often in tandem with cultivating critical reading skills.

●  Creative writing degrees offer a variety of modules and allow you to specialize in a particular form or genre.

●  A creative writing degree can open many potential career paths.

●  The most important things to consider when choosing a university at which to study creative writing are location, staff, resources, and professional opportunities.

●  Six of the best universities for creative writing degrees in the UK are the University of East Anglia, the University of Leeds, the University of Birmingham, the University of Warwick, the University of Reading, and the University of Strathclyde.

●  Many of these universities offer lectures, workshops, and seminars delivered by published authors.

Whichever university you decide to attend, make sure it’s the right one for you. Look for modules you’re interested in, writing forms you’d like to explore, opportunities you want to make the most of, and a university atmosphere you’ll thrive in.

And if you’re looking for more options, take a look at the Complete University Guide’s 2023 rankings for creative writing .

What types of degrees can I receive in creative writing?

As an undergraduate, you can earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in creative writing. As a postgraduate, you can earn a Master of Arts (MA) degree or a Doctorate in Philosophy (PhD).

If you’re studying in Scotland, the types of degrees may differ slightly.

How do I know whether I have what it takes to pursue a degree in creative writing?

Before accepting you for a creative writing degree, most universities will require that you have certain A-level or equivalent grades. But academic achievements aren’t everything. If you’re looking to pursue a degree in creative writing, it’s helpful to have:

●  An avid interest in reading (and, of course, writing!)

●  A portfolio to demonstrate your writing

●  The ability to meet deadlines

Be prepared to work hard, but remember, the point of a creative writing degree is to help develop your writing skills and style. You don’t have to be a perfect, polished writer to be a creative writing student!

Can I pursue a creative writing degree online?

Yes, many universities now offer online versions of creative writing degrees. This means you will be able to earn the same qualification by studying online as you would if you studied in person.

However, be careful to choose a properly accredited online creative writing degree.

Where can I get feedback on my university application?

A professional proofreader or editor is the best choice for getting feedback on your application.

Our team here at Proofed can help make sure your university application is clear and correct and meets the appropriate academic standards so that you can focus on preparing for university life.

We can even proofread the first 500 words for free – so why not submit a document ?

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

5-minute read

Free Email Newsletter Template (2024)

Promoting a brand means sharing valuable insights to connect more deeply with your audience, and...

6-minute read

How to Write a Nonprofit Grant Proposal

If you’re seeking funding to support your charitable endeavors as a nonprofit organization, you’ll need...

9-minute read

How to Use Infographics to Boost Your Presentation

Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...

8-minute read

Why Interactive PDFs Are Better for Engagement

Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...

7-minute read

Seven Key Strategies for Voice Search Optimization

Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...

4-minute read

Five Creative Ways to Showcase Your Digital Portfolio

Are you a creative freelancer looking to make a lasting impression on potential clients or...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

• Find a course
• Undergraduate study
• Postgraduate study
• MPhil/PhD research
• Short courses
• Entry requirements
• Financial support

How to apply

• Come and meet us
• Evening study explained
• International Students
• Student Services
• Business Services
• Student life at Birkbeck
• The Birkbeck Experience
• Boost your career
• About Birkbeck
• Contact Birkbeck
• Faculties and Schools
• ReciteMe accessibility

Creative Writing

Application options include:

Course Overview

This MA Creative Writing gives you the chance to better understand the craft of writing and gain valuable constructive criticism from other writers and experts who are as serious about developing your work as you are. It is ideal if you want to develop your practice as a writer and work toward publication and/or sustaining a career in the industry.

Why choose this course?

• Our MA is highly respected nationally and internationally and we have a growing list of published and prizewinning authors whose work started life in our seminars, recently including Abi Daré, JJ Bola, Lily Dunn, Annalie Grainger, Louise Hare, Sally Hinchcliffe, Vanessa Onwuemezi, Melody Razak and Saba Sams.
• You will study the art of writing with a faculty of acclaimed authors, which include Julia Bell, Luke Williams and David Eldridge, to name a few.
• You will benefit from the experience and expertise of a team who have been running this creative writing course for almost 20 years enabling diverse cohorts of students to develop as writers across genres and to support their careers.

What you will learn

On this MA Creative Writing you will deepen your knowledge of reading and writing and the possibilities of literature across all forms and genres, as well as developing critical and professional skills relevant to the workplace.

You will take core modules which focus your attention on the fundamentals of writing and then choose option modules which give you the opportunity to diversify your practice and experiment in more specialist areas and concerns including:

• writing for video gaming
• screenwriting
• playwrighting
• memoir writing
• creative non-fiction
• genre fiction.

How you will learn

In workshops, tutorials and supervisions you will benefit from close and attentive readings of your work. In lectures and seminars, we consider issues of craft, expression and meaning within the context of how you see the world, how we theorise writing and contextualise our work within broader traditions. You will build on existing skills and develop new techniques and approaches to writing under the tutelage of published authors who are experts in your specialism.

Entry to the course is based on the submission of a portfolio of creative work, and candidates whose work shows promise will be invited for interview.

Discover the career opportunities available by taking Creative Writing (MA).

Key information and modules

Creative writing ma: 1 year full-time, on campus, starting october 2024.

Central London

Creative Writing MA: 2 years part-time, on campus, starting October 2024

Creative writing: january start ma: 2 years part-time, on campus, starting january 2025, pathways for creative writing (ma).

This course has additional Pathways to offer you the chance to specialise depending on your interests and career goals.

• Creative Writing and Contemporary Studies (MA)

Find another course:

• Birkbeck was ranked 2nd in the UK for its English Language and Literature research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.
• We have close links between the MA and the Centre for Conte mporary Literature at Birkbeck, which runs a wide variety of talks and conferences in this field. In addition to working with the established and award-winning writers who teach the degree, you will have contact with industry professionals, such as publishers and literary agents, who offer a series of platform discussions in the summer term.
• The Mechanics' Institute Review, MIROnline , is a forum for the most exciting new writing in short fiction, poetry and creative non-fiction selected from students on this course and beyond. It runs regular live literature events and offers you publishing and editing opportunities.
• Birkbeck is located in the heart of literary London, in Bloomsbury, WC1. You could be studying in a building that was once home to Virginia Woolf and frequented by members of the Bloomsbury Group. The building houses our own creative hub which includes the Peltz Gallery , the Gordon Square Cinema and a theatre and performance space .
• We have a range of scholarships available to enable talented students on low incomes to study with us, such as the Sophie Warne Fellowship . Once you have secured a place on the course you will be invited to apply for these awards. We offer a number of bursaries for postgraduate students .

Birkbeck makes all reasonable efforts to deliver educational services, modules and programmes of study as described on our website. In the event that there are material changes to our offering (for example, due to matters beyond our control), we will update applicant and student facing information as quickly as possible and offer alternatives to applicants, offer-holders and current students.

Most of our courses are taught in the evenings, however some of our courses offer a daytime timetable. Where there is an option to attend daytime teaching sessions, this is stated in the Key Information section under Attendance.

Entry Requirements

A second-class honours degree (2:2 or above, though this requirement may be waived if you can demonstrate exceptional talent), a personal statement (to be submitted with your application form) and a portfolio of prose writing of no more than 3000 words.

Your portfolio should be a section of a novel with a synopsis, a couple of short stories or a combination of the two. Please note that poetry, children’s fiction, journalism, screen- or playwriting are not appropriate submissions for this MA. Students are selected on the basis of their portfolio and statement, an interview (selected candidates only) and their degree.

Portfolio guidelines:

• Submit application.
• Wait up to 48 hours.
• Submit writing portfolio (Word or PDF) by logging into your MyBirkbeck profile, then going to the ‘Manage my application’ link and attaching the document.

Applications are reviewed on their individual merits, and your professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be taken into consideration positively. We actively support and encourage applications from mature learners.

On your application form, please list all your relevant qualifications and experience, including those you expect to achieve.

Apply now  to secure your place. The earlier you apply, the sooner your application can be considered and you can enrol. You do not need to have completed your current qualification to start your application.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, the requirement for this programme is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests.

If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement,  we offer pre-sessional English courses and foundation programmes  to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.

Visit the International section of our website to find out more about our  English language entry requirements and relevant requirements by country .

Visa and funding requirements

If you are not from the UK and you do not already have residency here, you may need to apply for a visa.

The visa you apply for varies according to the length of your course:

• Courses of more than six months' duration: Student visa
• Courses of less than six months' duration: Standard Visitor visa

International students who require a Student visa should apply for our full-time courses as these qualify for Student visa sponsorship. If you are living in the UK on a Student visa, you will not be eligible to enrol as a student on Birkbeck's part-time courses (with the exception of some modules).

For full information, read our visa information for international students page .

Please also visit the international section of our website to find out more about relevant visa and funding requirements by country .

Please note students receiving US Federal Aid are only able to apply for in-person, on-campus programmes which will have no elements of online study.

Credits and accredited prior learning (APL)

If you have studied at university, you may have accumulated credits through the modules you studied. It may be possible to transfer these credits from your previous study to Birkbeck or another institution.

Creative Writing MA: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time, on campus, starting in academic year 2024-25

Academic year 2024–25, starting october 2024.

Part-time home students: £5,400 per year Full-time home students: £10,800 per year Part-time international students : £9,915 per year Full-time international students: £19,830 per year

Creative Writing: January start MA: 2 years part-time, on campus, starting in academic year 2024-25

Academic year 2024–25, starting january 2025.

Part-time home students: £5,400 per year Part-time international students : £9,915 per year

Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing on their course in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases. For more information, please see the College Fees Policy .

If you’ve studied at Birkbeck before and successfully completed an award with us, take advantage of our Lifelong Learning Guarantee to gain a discount on the tuition fee of this course.

Discover the financial support available to you to help with your studies at Birkbeck.

International scholarships

We provide a range of scholarships for eligible international students, including our Global Future Scholarship. Discover if you are eligible for a scholarship .

At Birkbeck, most of our courses are taught in the evening and all of our teaching is designed to support students who are juggling evening study with work and other commitments. We actively encourage innovative and engaging ways of teaching, to ensure our students have the best learning experience.

Teaching may include formal lectures, seminars, and practical classes and tutorials. Formal lectures are used in most degree programmes to give an overview of a particular field of study. They aim to provide the stimulus and the starting point for deeper exploration of the subject during your own personal reading. Seminars give you the chance to explore a specific aspect of your subject in depth and to discuss and exchange ideas with fellow students. They typically require preparatory study.

In addition, you will have access to pastoral support via a named Personal Tutor.

Methods of teaching on this course

Teaching is seminar-based. Each session is generally two hours, and there are further regular one-to-one tutorials throughout the year.

Key teaching staff on this course

Staff who may teach on this MA include successful, published authors and practitioners such as:

• David Eldridge
• Richard Hamblyn
• Jonathan Kemp
• Luke Williams

Teaching hours

Our evening hours are normally between 6pm and 9pm (6-7.30pm and 7.30-9pm). Some programmes also offer teaching during the day and this will be clearly signposted to you where it is available.

On our taught courses, you will have scheduled teaching and study sessions each year. Scheduled teaching sessions may include lectures, seminars, workshops or laboratory work. Depending on the modules you take, you may also have additional scheduled academic activities, such as tutorials, dissertation supervision, practical classes, visits and field trips. On our taught courses, the actual amount of time you spend in the classroom and in contact with your lecturers will depend on your course, the option modules you select and when you undertake your final-year project (if applicable).

Alongside your contact hours, you will also undertake assessment activities and independent learning outside of class. The amount of time you need to allocate to study both for taught sessions (this might include online sessions and/or in-person sessions) and personal study will depend on how much you are studying during the year and whether you are studying full time or part time.

Birkbeck’s courses are made up of modules and allocated ‘credit’. One credit is equivalent to ten hours of learning time. Modules are usually in 15, 30 or 60 credit units. A 15-credit module will mean around 150 hours of learning, including taught sessions and independent study or group work. This is spread out over the whole period of that module and includes the time you spend on any assessments, including in examinations, preparing and writing assessments or engaged in practical work as well as any study support sessions to help you in your learning.

On our distance-learning and blended-learning courses, discussion, collaboration and interaction with your lecturers and fellow students is encouraged and enabled through various learning technologies.

Timetables are usually available from September onwards and you can access your personalised timetable via your My Birkbeck Profile online (if you have been invited to enrol).

Indicative class size

Class sizes vary, depending on your course, the module you are undertaking, and the method of teaching. For example, lectures are presented to larger groups, whereas seminars usually consist of small, interactive groups led by a tutor.

Independent learning

On our taught courses, much of your time outside of class will be spent on self-directed, independent learning, including preparing for classes and following up afterwards. This will usually include, but is not limited to, reading books and journal articles, undertaking research, working on coursework and assignments, and preparing for presentations and assessments.

Independent learning is absolutely vital to your success as a student. Everyone is different, and the study time required varies topic by topic, but, as a guide, expect to schedule up to five hours of self-study for each hour of teaching.

Study skills and additional support

Birkbeck offers study and learning support to undergraduate and postgraduate students to help them succeed. Our Learning Development Service can help you in the following areas:

• academic skills (including planning your workload, research, writing, exam preparation and writing a dissertation)
• written English (including structure, punctuation and grammar)
• numerical skills (basic mathematics and statistics).

Our Disability and Dyslexia Service can support you if you have additional learning needs resulting from a disability or from dyslexia.

Our Counselling Service can support you if you are struggling with emotional or psychological difficulties during your studies.

Our Mental Health Advisory Service can support you if you are experiencing short- or long-term mental health difficulties during your studies.

Assessment is an integral part of your university studies and usually consists of a combination of coursework and examinations, although this will vary from course to course - on some of our courses, assessment is entirely by coursework. The methods of assessment on this course are specified below under 'Methods of assessment on this course'. You will need to allow time to complete coursework and prepare for exams.

Where a course has unseen written examinations, these may be held termly, but, on the majority of our courses, exams are usually taken in the Summer term, during May to June. Exams may be held at other times of the year as well. In most cases, exams are held during the day on a weekday - if you have daytime commitments, you will need to make arrangements for daytime attendance - but some exams are held in the evening. Exam timetables are published online.

Find out more about assessment at Birkbeck, including guidance on assessment, feedback and our assessment offences policy.

Methods of assessment on this course

Four short creative pieces with critical essays (67%). A dissertation (15,000 words) in one of the following genres: a novella, novel or collection of short stories, with a preface of 3000 words (33%).

Careers and employability

On successfully graduating from this MA Creative Writing, you will have gained an array of important transferable skills, including:

• strong creative and critical skills
• a sophisticated use of written and spoken English
• an advanced ability in engaging with ideas and developing your own opinions and arguments
• facility and precision in the use of analytical tools
• strong skills and initiative in collecting and organising complex materials and writing up clear, well-presented reports or fluent critical arguments
• adaptability, resilience and initiative.

Graduates can pursue career paths in areas such as:

• copywriting
• narrative design

Birkbeck Creative Writing graduates include:

• Niki Aguirre
• Sarah Alexander
• Laura Allsop
• Iphgenia Baal
• Phoebe Blatton
• Mary Lynn Bracht
• Nicole Burstein
• Tray Butler
• Melissa De Villiers
• Liz Fremantle
• AJ Grainger
• Jules Grant
• Emma Henderson
• Sally Hinchcliffe
• Heidi James
• Keith Jarrett
• Olya Knezevic
• Matthew Loukes
• Fiona Melrose
• Suzanne O'Sullivan
• Victoria Richards
• Nadim Safdar
• Karin Salvalaggio
• David Savill
• Stefanie Seddon
• Luke Tredget.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.

You apply directly to Birkbeck for this course, using the online application link.

You will need to prove your identity when you apply - read more about suitable forms of identification .

When to apply

You are strongly advised to apply now, to ensure there are still places on your chosen course and to give you enough time to complete the admissions process, to arrange funding and to enrol.

You don't need to complete your current programme of study before you apply - Birkbeck can offer you a place that is conditional on your results.

You will also receive information about subject-specific induction sessions over the summer.

Help and advice with your application

Get all the information you need about the application, admission and enrolment process at Birkbeck.

Our online personal statement tool will guide you through every step of writing the personal statement part of your application.

Apply for your course

Apply for your course using the apply now button in the key information section .

Course structure

Course structure listing, course structure and modules for creative writing ma: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time, on campus, starting october 2024.

You must complete modules worth a total of 180 credits, consisting of:

• two compulsory modules (30 credits each)
• two option modules (30 credits each)
• a 15,000-word dissertation (60 credits).

Compulsory modules

• Creative Non-Fiction
• Writing and Reading Seminar

Option modules

• Contemporary Writing 2: Genre
• Introduction to Playwriting
• Introduction to Screenwriting
• Poetry Workshop
• Writing The Self
• Writing Workshop

MA Creative Writing Dissertation

• Dissertation MA Creative Writing

Course structure and modules for Creative Writing: January start MA: 2 years part-time, on campus, starting January 2025

You are using an outdated browser. Please click here to upgrade your browser & improve your experience.

BA (Hons) Creative Writing

Part-time, online, study creative writing for your degree with oca.

Have you always wanted to write a novel, create a screenplay, or perfect your poetry? Whatever you’re looking to write, our BA (Hons) Creative Writing degree will give you the tools to achieve it.

Our BA (Hons) Creative Writing degree will empower you with effective practices, insights and skills, encouraging you to write more frequently and with more purpose than ever before. Shared experiences are reflected throughout the course, which is packed full of options so you can develop your writing in your own way and in your preferred genre.

You’ll study the basics of writing, how to remain engaged and will uncover different styles of writing, from poetry and scriptwriting to short fiction and children’s books. You’ll be encouraged to read the best writers, exploring what makes To Kill A Mockingbird so compelling, or why the script of Casablanca works so well, and then apply these techniques to your own writing.

Become the protagonist of your own story. Start writing today.

Unique online Creative Writing courses

Our BA Hons Creative Writing degree is a specialist degree covering scriptwriting, writing for children, life writing, writing a novel, poetry, and more. You can study creative writing online – completely at our own pace – while being supported by OCA’s tutors.

It aims to equip students with skills, confidence, motivation and ambition, through a learning design programme that starts from fundamental writing skills through to the contemporary professional practice in a form or genre of the student’s choice.

Students are equipped with some fundamental writing techniques applicable to all genres, before allowing students to sample poetry, screenwriting or prose writing, and can pursue the poetry or scriptwriting forms at a more advanced level and/or will have the option to try more niche forms of writing, to enable them to gain further skills and expertise.

The programme draws on creative writing pedagogy by utilising the group or workshop activity as well as the individual assignment and close study of others’ work, but accommodates OCA’s distinctive demographic and the desires of lone writers by enabling some to create alternative submissions in the form of traditional writing portfolios.

Course Structure

Our Creative Writing degree covers the full breadth of writing practice, allowing you to take the options that are of most interest to you. As of September 2021, the BA Hons Creative Arts course will deliver 3x 40 credit units in each Level of the course.*

Students are introduced to the basic skills and techniques of creative writing in the initial unit, Essential Writing Skills 1.1. In their second unit, Further Writing Skills, students will choose two options from a choice of three pathways: they can either try basic poetry or screenwriting or the prose option. These choices remain with them for their third unit at Level 1, Developing Your Writing Skills. By the end of Level 1, students will have the skills and knowledge needed to deepen their poetry, prose or scriptwriting craft at Level 2.

Students are supported in the transition from novice undergraduate to knowledgeable and independent learners, putting into practice skills acquired at Level 1 and developing a personal approach to their writing practice. The units at this stage allow students to develop skills from Level 1 in poetry or screenwriting or else to try something new and more specialised, such as writing narrative non-fiction, writing for children or teens or writing short fiction.

Students will begin to understand the iterative and skills-building requirements of creative writing, and will actively consider how their work may become outward-facing. Peer sessions with other writers will inform their writing and raise critiquing skills, with an understanding that in some cases alternative methods are more appropriate.

Level 3 equips students with knowledge, understanding and skills for continuing personal development and professional writing practice. The units provide a framework for the learners to generate projects based on the personal vision and ambition gained throughout Level 1 and Level 2. The aim is to strengthen each individual’s writing practice and inform their creative development through rigorous intellectual enquiry, resulting in a distinctive body of creative work.

*For current students enrolled to a Level of this degree prior to September 2021, existing units across all levels will remain available as ‘teach out’ units to ensure no students are disadvantaged due to the changes. Once enrolled to a new level, students will follow the new degree pathway. 

We regularly review our curriculum; therefore, the qualification described on this page – including its availability, its structure, and available units – may change over time. If we make changes to this qualification, we’ll update this page as soon as possible. Once you’ve registered or are studying this qualification, where practicable, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes. If you’d like to know more about the circumstances in which OCA might make changes to the curriculum, see our Academic Regulations or contact us . This description was last updated on 14 December 2022.

Programme Specification 2024/25 New Curriculum

This Programme Specification is for all units on the new curriculum.

Programme Specification 2024/25 Running Out Curriculum

This Programme Specification details the units and learning outcomes that are being taught out.

Creative Writing Accessibility Statements

Accessibility statements give an indication of the type and format of content, teaching, and learning activities on the course, and how these are ordinarily delivered.

Foundations

Stage 1 (he4).

For the stage

Stage 2 (HE5)

Stage 3 (he6), breakdown of costs....

More Information

With the OCA, you can study a BA (Hons) degree in our flexible online learning model at approximately one third the cost of a degree at a traditional physical university.

Students study and pay for the course on a unit-by-unit basis, so you only pay for the course as you enrol to each unit.

This course is eligible for a part-time tuition fee loan from Student Finance England, Wales and Northern Ireland, or you can self-fund the course and break down costs even further through the deposit and instalment option.  Find out more about your funding options  here .

You will require regular use of a computer or laptop and internet access. Most essential reading materials can be accessed through the digital library services and eBooks.

Students are responsible for sourcing and, where necessary, purchasing any additional software and resources specified. These can be around £400 at Level 1, £500 at Level 2, and £550 at Level 3. Where possible, open or freeware equivalents will be discussed alongside industry standard options.

On this course, you’ll need some type of word document software, such as Microsoft Word and a place to keep your learning logs and journals – this could be digital or handwritten, though your assignments will need to be typed. If you choose to study Scriptwriting, you may need some software to support this.

You may be eligible for any student discounts on computer equipment and software by using your student email, and you can find out more information about student discounts  here .

Our courses are designed with open access in mind, meaning you don’t need specific subject qualifications to enrol.

You can review the study requirements  here so you’re prepared for online study at higher education. This will include a good standard of English and IT literacy skills.

We accept enrolments for our BA (HONS) courses in monthly intakes throughout the year.

Review the key enrolment deadlines on the link below.

How to Apply

Our part-time degree courses are completed on average between 6 and 9 years. The degree is structured into three levels (instead of three years) so you’re able manage study around other commitments.

Once enrolled, you’ll have a maximum of 12 years to complete your degree course. There are unit and level timeframes within the overall degree time frame, and you’ll need a minimum of 10 study hours per week to keep on track. To find out more about course duration and managing your time, click here .

Your course materials are accessible online through the virtual learning environment, OCA Learn, where you’ll also have access to student forums, a subject space, the student handbook and the online library. You’ll work primarily from a set text of course materials and resources, but can also sign up to webinars, workshops and study groups in addition to your core learning.

Once you’ve completed the required assignments within a course unit and received tutor feedback, you’ll submit a portfolio of work to an assessment event. This gives you the opportunity to develop your work before you have it formally assessed to achieve credits towards your degree.

Upon completing the BA (Hons) Creative Writing degree, as a fully-fledged creative writer you could embark on being a novelist, a poet, a scriptwriter – you name it, you can do it. Prospects have great tips on what it is to be a professional writer. They also cover the many roles you could take on, freshly equipped with your degree.

While you’re pursuing your dream of becoming a professional writer, you can find a range of options to support your art while you write that amazing script or novel. Some include:

• Marketing Professional
• Communications specialist
• Editor / Copywriter

In May 2022 the Department for Culture, Media, & Sport  estimated there were some 2.3 million jobs  in the UK creative industries, and  post pandemic the Creative Industries are growing faster than the UK economy  as a whole.

The Academic Regulations for Subsidiary Institutions of The Open University are applicable to all taught courses offered by the Open College of the Arts (OCA).

You can review the Academic Regulations on our policy page .

Get started with our BA (Hons) Creative Writing degree here!

Step 1 of 14

Ba hons creative writing enrolment form.

• I am a new student beginning a degree course
• I am a current student continuing my degree studies
• What is/was your student number? (Required) This is the six digit number at the end of your student email.

About You: Student Details

• Legal Name (Required) Please input your name as it appears on legal documentation for example, birth certificate or passport. This is for reporting purposes and issuance of final award. Prefix Dr Miss Mr Mrs Ms Mx Prof. Rev. First Middle Last
• Telephone Number (Required) Please provide a contact telephone number
• Email (Required)
• Date of Birth (Required) Students must be at least 18 years of age when submitting this application. Day Month Year
• 96 Information refused
• Legal Nationality (Required) Please select... 97 Not known AA Stateless AD Andorra AE United Arab Emirates AF Afghanistan AG Antigua and Barbuda AI Anguilla AL Albania AM Armenia AO Angola AR Argentina AS American Samoa AT Austria AU Australia AZ Azerbaijan BA Bosnia and Herzegovina BB Barbados BD Bangladesh BE Belgium BF Burkina Faso BG Bulgaria BH Bahrain BI Burundi BJ Benin BM Bermuda BN Brunei [Brunei Darussalam] BO Bolivia [Bolivia, Plurinational State of] BR Brazil BS Bahamas, The BT Bhutan BW Botswana BY Belarus BZ Belize CA Canada CD Congo (Democratic Republic) [Congo (The Democratic Republic of the)] CF Central African Republic CG Congo CH Switzerland CI Ivory Coast [Côte D'ivoire] CL Chile CM Cameroon CN China CO Colombia CR Costa Rica CU Cuba CV Cape Verde CZ Czech Republic DE Germany DJ Djibouti DK Denmark DM Dominica DO Dominican Republic DZ Algeria EC Ecuador EE Estonia EG Egypt EH Western Sahara ER Eritrea ES Spain ET Ethiopia FI Finland FJ Fiji FK Falkland Islands [Falkland Islands (Malvinas)] FM Micronesia [Micronesia, Federated States of] FO Faroe Islands FR France GA Gabon GB United Kingdom GD Grenada GE Georgia GG Guernsey GH Ghana GI Gibraltar GL Greenland GM Gambia, The GN Guinea GQ Equatorial Guinea GR Greece GS South Georgia and The South Sandwich Islands GT Guatemala GU Guam GW Guinea-Bissau GY Guyana HK Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region of China) [Hong Kong] HN Honduras HR Croatia HT Haiti HU Hungary ID Indonesia IE Ireland IL Israel IM Isle of Man IN India IO British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) IQ Iraq IR Iran [Iran, Islamic Republic of] IS Iceland IT Italy JE Jersey JM Jamaica JO Jordan JP Japan KE Kenya KG Kyrgyzstan KH Cambodia KI Kiribati KM Comoros KN St Kitts and Nevis KP Korea (North) [Korea, Democratic People's Republic of] KR Korea (South) [Korea, Republic of] KW Kuwait KY Cayman Islands KZ Kazakhstan LA Laos [Lao People's Democratic Republic] LB Lebanon LC St Lucia LI Liechtenstein LK Sri Lanka LR Liberia LS Lesotho LT Lithuania LU Luxembourg LV Latvia LY Libya MA Morocco MC Monaco MD Moldova [Moldova, Republic of] ME Montenegro MG Madagascar MH Marshall Islands MK North Macedonia ML Mali MM Myanmar (Burma) [The Republic of the Union of Myanmar] MN Mongolia MO Macao (Special Administrative Region of China) [Macao] MP Northern Mariana Islands MR Mauritania MS Montserrat MT Malta MU Mauritius MV Maldives MW Malawi MX Mexico MY Malaysia MZ Mozambique NA Namibia NE Niger NG Nigeria NI Nicaragua NL Netherlands NO Norway NP Nepal NR Nauru NZ New Zealand OM Oman PA Panama PE Peru PG Papua New Guinea PH Philippines PK Pakistan PL Poland PN Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie and Oeno Islands [Pitcairn] PS Occupied Palestinian Territories [Palestine, State of] PT Portugal PW Palau PY Paraguay QA Qatar QO Kosovo RO Romania RS Serbia RU Russia [Russian Federation] RW Rwanda SA Saudi Arabia SB Solomon Islands SC Seychelles SD Sudan SE Sweden SG Singapore SH St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha SI Slovenia SK Slovakia SL Sierra Leone SM San Marino SN Senegal SO Somalia SR Suriname SS South Sudan ST Sao Tome and Principe SV El Salvador SY Syria [Syrian Arab Republic] SZ Eswatini TC Turks and Caicos Islands TD Chad TG Togo TH Thailand TJ Tajikistan TL East Timor [Timor Leste] TM Turkmenistan TN Tunisia TO Tonga TR Turkey TT Trinidad and Tobago TV Tuvalu TW Taiwan [Taiwan, Province of China] TZ Tanzania [Tanzania, United Republic of] UA Ukraine UG Uganda US United States UY Uruguay UZ Uzbekistan VA Vatican City [Holy See (Vatican City State)] VC St Vincent and The Grenadines VE Venezuela [Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of] VG British Virgin Islands [Virgin Islands, British] VN Vietnam [Viet Nam] VU Vanuatu WS Samoa XA Cyprus (European Union) XB Cyprus (Non-European Union) XC Cyprus not otherwise specified XL Channel Islands not otherwise specified XM Czechoslovakia not otherwise specified XN Union of Soviet Socialist Republics not otherwise specified XO Yugoslavia not otherwise specified XP Europe not otherwise specified YE Yemen ZA South Africa ZM Zambia ZW Zimbabwe
• What country do you share dual nationality with? Please select... AF Afghanistan AL Albania DZ Algeria AS American Samoa AD Andorra AO Angola AI Anguilla AG Antigua and Barbuda AR Argentina AM Armenia AU Australia AT Austria AZ Azerbaijan BS Bahamas, The BH Bahrain BD Bangladesh BB Barbados BY Belarus BE Belgium BZ Belize BJ Benin BM Bermuda BT Bhutan BO Bolivia [Bolivia, Plurinational State of] BA Bosnia and Herzegovina BW Botswana BR Brazil IO British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) VG British Virgin Islands [Virgin Islands, British] BN Brunei [Brunei Darussalam] BG Bulgaria BF Burkina [Burkina Faso] MM Burma [Myanmar] BI Burundi KH Cambodia CM Cameroon CA Canada CV Cape Verde KY Cayman Islands CF Central African Republic TD Chad XL Channel Islands not otherwise specified CL Chile CN China CO Colombia KM Comoros CG Congo CD Congo (Democratic Republic) [Congo (The Democratic Republic of the)] {formerly Zaire} CR Costa Rica HR Croatia CU Cuba XA Cyprus (European Union) XB Cyprus (Non-European Union) XC Cyprus not otherwise specified CZ Czech Republic XM Czechoslovakia not otherwise specified DK Denmark DJ Djibouti DM Dominica DO Dominican Republic TL East Timor [Timor Leste] EC Ecuador EG Egypt SV El Salvador GQ Equatorial Guinea ER Eritrea EE Estonia ET Ethiopia FK Falkland Islands [Falkland Islands (Malvinas)] FO Faroe Islands FJ Fiji FI Finland FR France {includes Corsica} GA Gabon GM Gambia, The GE Georgia DE Germany GH Ghana GI Gibraltar GR Greece GL Greenland GD Grenada GU Guam GT Guatemala GG Guernsey GN Guinea GW Guinea-Bissau GY Guyana HT Haiti HN Honduras HK Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region of China) [Hong Kong] HU Hungary IS Iceland IN India ID Indonesia IR Iran [Iran, Islamic Republic of] IQ Iraq IE Ireland IM Isle of Man IL Israel IT Italy {Includes Sardinia, Sicily} CI Ivory Coast [Côte D'ivoire] JM Jamaica JP Japan JE Jersey JO Jordan KZ Kazakhstan KE Kenya KI Kiribati KP Korea (North) [Korea, Democratic People's Republic of] KR Korea (South) [Korea, Republic of] QO Kosovo KW Kuwait KG Kyrgyzstan LA Laos [Lao People's Democratic Republic] LV Latvia LB Lebanon LS Lesotho LR Liberia LY Libya LI Liechtenstein LT Lithuania LU Luxembourg MO Macao (Special Administrative Region of China) [Macao] MK Macedonia [Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of] MG Madagascar MW Malawi MY Malaysia MV Maldives ML Mali MT Malta MH Marshall Islands MR Mauritania MU Mauritius MX Mexico FM Micronesia [Micronesia, Federated States of] MD Moldova [Moldova, Republic of] MC Monaco MN Mongolia ME Montenegro MS Montserrat MA Morocco MZ Mozambique NA Namibia NR Nauru NP Nepal NL Netherlands NZ New Zealand NI Nicaragua NE Niger NG Nigeria MP Northern Mariana Islands NO Norway ZZ Not known PS Occupied Palestinian Territories [Palestine, State of] {formerly West Bank (including East Jerusalem) and Gaza Strip} OM Oman PK Pakistan PW Palau PA Panama PG Papua New Guinea PY Paraguay PE Peru PH Philippines PN Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie and Oeno Islands [Pitcairn] PL Poland PT Portugal {includes Madeira, Azores} QA Qatar RO Romania RU Russia [Russian Federation] RW Rwanda WS Samoa SM San Marino ST Sao Tome and Principe SA Saudi Arabia SN Senegal RS Serbia QN Serbia and Montenegro not otherwise specified SC Seychelles SL Sierra Leone SG Singapore SK Slovakia SI Slovenia SB Solomon Islands SO Somalia ZA South Africa GS South Georgia and The South Sandwich Islands SS South Sudan ES Spain {includes Ceuta, Melilla} LK Sri Lanka SH St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha KN St Kitts and Nevis LC St Lucia VC St Vincent and The Grenadines AA Stateless SD Sudan SR Surinam [Suriname] SZ Swaziland SE Sweden CH Switzerland SY Syria [Syrian Arab Republic] TW Taiwan [Taiwan, Province of China] TJ Tajikistan TZ Tanzania [Tanzania, United Republic of] TH Thailand TG Togo TO Tonga TT Trinidad and Tobago TN Tunisia TR Turkey TM Turkmenistan TC Turks and Caicos Islands TV Tuvalu UG Uganda UA Ukraine XN Union of Soviet Socialist Republics not otherwise specified AE United Arab Emirates GB United Kingdom US United States UY Uruguay UZ Uzbekistan VU Vanuatu VA Vatican City [Holy See (Vatican City State)] VE Venezuela [Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of] VN Vietnam [Viet Nam] EH Western Sahara YE Yemen XO Yugoslavia not otherwise specified ZM Zambia ZW Zimbabwe
• I have a relevant unspent conviction as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
• I do not have a relevant unspent conviction as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
• Northern Ireland
• Isle of Man or Channel Islands
• 1 British Sign Language user - first or preferred language
• 2 Not a British Sign Language user
• 9 British Sign Language User - NOT first or preferred language
• 98 I do not wish to declare
• 1 Fluent Welsh speaker
• 2 Welsh speaker not fluent
• 3 Not Welsh speaker
• 9 Not known
• Which language would you prefer to be contacted in? (Required) Please ensure you read this question thoroughly. You are not indicating your nationality, but in what language you will be communicated with. 1 Welsh 2 English
• Yes - I am serving in the British Armed Forces
• Yes - I am a family member of someone who is
• Please provide a letter which confirms you or a family member are serving in the Armed Forces, including confirmation of where the serving member resided when they joined up Max. file size: 100 MB.
• 1 Has never been full-time employed in British armed forces
• 4 Is currently employed in British armed forces
• 10 Left employment in British armed forces within last 5 years
• 11 Left employment in British armed forces over 5 years ago
• Please advise your previous addresses of the last 3 years and your reason for being abroad (Required)
• Non UK National serving in the British Armed Forces
• Asylum Seeker
• Limited Leave
• EU Pre Settled Status
• Student Visa / Visitor Visa / Working Holiday Visa
• Settled Status / Indefinite Leave to Remain / Indefinite Leave to Enter / Right of Abode
• Refugee / Humanitarian Protection / Discretionary Leave / Afghan related leave / Ukraine related leave
• Residential Address (Required) Street Address Address Line 2 City County / State / Region ZIP / Postal Code Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czechia Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Arab Republic Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania, the United Republic of Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Türkiye US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands

About You: Entry Requirements (1/3)

OCA offers open access courses, meaning you can start studying something you may have been interested in for years but haven't been able to pursue. What we are interested in is your aptitude and enthusiasm for your chosen subject.

You don’t need specific subject related qualifications to study with us, however there are minimum entry requirements you need to meet to ensure you have the right tools to get started.

English Language

As your legal nationality features on the majority English speaking countries list or you are a continuing student, you do not need to provide evidence of English Language proficiency. You will still need to confirm that you have a good standard of English to study this course.

You have indicated a legal nationality that is not featured on the majority English speaking countries list as provided by the CEFR. You must provide evidence of your English language proficiency equating to B2 of the CEFR.

You can evidence you meet this requirement through one of the following documents:

- A Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider, taken two years or less before the date of enrolment to the course. IELTS for UKVI or IELTS Academic may be accepted as meeting these requirements, provided the student has achieved a minimum score of 5.5 in each of the four elements of language learning. - Have successfully completed an academic course (not professional or vocational) at Bachelors degree level or above from an educational institution in the UK or in a majority English speaking country as listed below. - A passport provided as evidence of nationality of a majority English speaking country as listed above. - TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT taken two years or less before the date of enrolment to the course, with minimum scores in each of the four elements of language learning as follows: reading 18, listening 17, speaking 20 and writing 17. - Cambridge English B2 First qualification with scale range 160-179 taken in the last two years as of the date of enrolment to the course. - An online Duolingo test. You would need an overall score of 90 or above to meet Level B2 of the CEFR, and a minimum score of 85 in each category (providing your overall score is still above 90).

• I confirm I have a good standard of English
• Upload English Language Evidence Here (Required) We recommend uploading a PDF or image file. Max. file size: 100 MB.

About You: Entry Requirements (2/3)

As our courses are hosted on the virtual learning platform, OCA Learn, it is essential that you have access to a laptop or computer, and can easily manage a range of basic functions through ICT. This includes being able to;

• I have a good level of IT literacy and am confident with using web-based technologies.
• I have regular access to a computer/laptop with internet access.

About You: Entry Requirements (3/3)

Distance learning is great for anyone who wants to be creative, expand their skills and/or gain a qualification on your own terms. A lot of our ­­­students study alongside other commitments such as work, childcare and health issues, adding distance learning to their existing lifestyle.

Self-motivation is key to a successful distance learning student. You will be able to set aside several study hours per week and be comfortable working independently. As a higher education student, you are responsible for your studies and managing your time effectively, and will need a minimum of 10 study hours per week complete within the maximum time frames available.

• I confirm I have at least 10 study hours a week available
• I can dedicate this many study hours per week (Required)
• You do not have enough study hours per week available. You need at least a minimum of 10 study hours to complete a degree within the available time frames.
• Your dedicated study hours per week suggests that you will complete your degree course in 9 years.
• Your dedicated study hours per week suggests that you will complete your degree course in 8 years.
• Your dedicated study hours per week suggests that you will complete your degree course in 7 years.
• Your dedicated study hours per week suggests that you will complete your degree course in 6 years.

About You: Issues that may affect your learning

• 95 No known impairment, health condition or learning difference
• 51 Learning difference such as dyslexia, dyspraxia or AD(H)D
• 53 Social/communication conditions such as a speech and language impairment or an autistic spectrum condition
• 54 Long-term illness or health condition such as cancer, HIV, diabetes, chronic heart disease, or epilepsy
• 55 Mental health condition, challenge or disorder, such as depression, schizophrenia or anxiety
• 56 Physical impairment (a condition that substantially limits one or more basic physical activities such as walking, climbing stairs, lifting or carrying)
• 57 D/deaf or have a hearing impairment
• 58 Blind or have a visual impairment uncorrected by glasses
• 59 Development condition that you have had since childhood which affects motor, cognitive, social and emotional skills, and speech and language
• 96 An impairment, health condition or learning difference not listed above
• 98 Prefer not to say
• 99 Not available

Learning Difficulty

If you think you may have a SpLD but do not have a formal diagnosis, please take a look at the Adult Checklist on the British Dyslexia Association website: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/screening

This does not confirm a diagnosis itself but may give an indication as to whether you should consider looking into a formal diagnosis.

A full diagnostic test is required for UK students to access support via the Disabled Students Allowance process. For OCA students who need help to pay for a diagnostic test, you may be able to apply for part-funding towards a diagnostic assessment via OCA’s Learner Support Scheme.

If you already have a full (post-16) diagnostic assessment, we would encourage you to apply for additional support via the Disabled Students Allowance process. You will need to get reassessed if you had this done when you were under 16 years old.

Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)

If you are eligible for Student Finance, you may wish to consider applying for Disabled Students Allowance (Student Finance). This has been invaluable to many of our students. Students may be awarded a mentor which provides regular face-to-face interaction to support you with your planning and motivation, or software and equipment may be awarded to help you study the course depending on your needs. It's all individual - they will look at what the requirements of the course are, where your areas of difficulty may be due to your symptoms and let you know what options there are that could help.

We advise students applying for DSA to enrol to the course when DSA is in place, however you can start before this - the decision is yours. DSA applications can take 14 weeks to process, so please consider this when selecting your start date later on.

You can still apply for DSA even if you are a part through your studies.

• I have reviewed how DSA might be able to support me and do not wish to apply for DSA support.
• Only when DSA is approved
• On a set date regardless if DSA is in place or not
• I have a medical condition or disability meaning I require physical course materials.
• I do not have a medical condition or disability meaning I require physical course materials.
• My residential address
• Please provide a delivery address (Required) If you are have indicated you are studying this course in UK, your delivery address must also be UK address Street Address Address Line 2 City County / State / Region ZIP / Postal Code Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czechia Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Arab Republic Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania, the United Republic of Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Türkiye US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands Country
• Please tell us about any health issues, disability or caring responsibilities that may affect your learning.

Course Information

Students must achieve 360 credits to complete their BA Hons course, which is structured into three 120 credit levels. Students begin at Level 1, and enrol on a unit by unit basis. Each level is made up of three 40 credit units.

The first number of the unit name indicates the level of study, and the second number of the unit indicates what order they unit should be studied at that level e.g. unit 1.1 is the first unit at Level 1.

• Select which course unit of the degree you are enrolling to (Required) Please select... 1.1 Essential Writing Skills (new students select this) 1.2 Further Writing Skills 1.3 Developing Your Writing Skills 2.1 Investigation and Experiment 2.2 Skill and Proficiency 2.3 Innovation and Challenge 3.1 Practice and Research 3.2 Your Work in Progress 3.3: Reaching Your Audience Writing 1: Writing Skills Visual Studies 1:  Creative Arts Today Writing 1: Starting Your Novel Writing 1: The Art of Poetry Writing 1: Scriptwriting Writing 2: Writing for Children Writing 2:  Writing Short Fiction Writing 2: Poetry – Form and Experience Writing 2: Life Writing Writing 2: Moving on with Scriptwriting Writing 3: Independent Project
• Enrol before progression discussion complete
• Enrol after progression discussion complete
• Which Academic Year would you like to start in? (Required) 2024/25 (1st August 2024 to 31st July 2025)
• Which intake point would you like to join? (Required) 7th October 2024 4th November 2024 6th January 2025 3rd February 2025 3rd March 2025 6th May 2025 2nd June 2025 7th July 2025 Please select an intake point to join. Please note that  the cut off to join an intake is two works before the stated start date of the course. If you select a start date after the deadline has already passed, you will automatically be deferred to the following intake.
• I understand that the fee for this unit is £1,650, or a deposit of £495 followed by 6 monthly instalments of £192.50.
• I understand that the fee for this unit is £2,475, or a deposit of £550 followed by 10 monthly instalments of £192.50.
• I understand that the fee for this unit is £1,890, or a deposit of £567 followed by 6 monthly instalments of £220.50.
• I understand that the fee for this unit is £2,835, or a deposit of £630 followed by 10 monthly instalments of £220.50
• I understand that the fee for this unit is £2,062, or a deposit of £619 followed by 6 monthly instalments of £240.50.
• I understand that the fee for this unit is £3,093, or a deposit of £928 followed by 10 monthly instalments of £216.50.
• I understand that the fee for this unit is £2,362, or a deposit of £709 followed by 6 monthly instalments of £275.50.
• I understand that the fee for this unit is £3,543, or a deposit of £1,063 followed by 10 monthly instalments of £248.00
• Product Name

Funding and Payment

• Student Finance (England, Wales and Northern Ireland only)
• Self-funding
• SAAS Part-time Fee Grant
• Learner Support Scheme Bursary
• What is your Student Finance Customer Reference Number? (Required) You'll be given a customer reference number (CRN) when an application to the Student Loans Company for financial support is made. You'll receive this CRN in a letter or email.
• I understand that if applying for funding from SAAS, funding is confirmed after the start date of the course, and if unsuccessful for funding from SAAS I will remain liable for the fees of the course once outside the cancellation period, and that SAAS does not cover the full cost of the tuition fees .

You are responsible for submitting your own Student Finance funding applications. The month you begin your course will mark the start of your personal academic year with Student Finance. For instance, if you begin your course in October, your funding year runs from October to September. This means you need to apply for funding to begin every October for the relevant academic year for as long as you are studying your course.

Mark the month you start your course in your calendar, so you know when your funding the following year needs to begin. We recommend applying for the maximum amount available each year. We will only claim the amount required.

Review the 22/23 Student Finance Guidance Here

• I understand that I will be confirmed as studying 40 credits in my first year when I start my course
• I am applying for a maintenance loan or already receive one (check your eligibility with Student Finance)
• I am not applying or in receipt of a maintenance loan
• Deposit and Instalment
• If paying for the course by instalments, I undertake to pay the full sum once outside of the 14 day cancellation period per the course fees structure , and if relevant, I give my permission for OCA to discuss my progress with a third party funder (e.g. employer, ELCAS).
• Please upload your ELCAS CAN form (Required) Max. file size: 100 MB.

HESA Data Collection

• Have you previously studied at Higher Education Level in the UK before? (Required) A Has had prior HE experience in UK lasting 6 months or more B Has not had prior HE experience in UK lasting 6 months or more C Not known if has had prior HE exp in UK of 6 months or more
• What is your Highest Existing Qualification? (Required) DUK UK doctorate degree DZZ Non-UK doctorate degree D80 Other qualification at level D MUK UK masters degree MZZ Non-UK masters degree M2X Integrated undergraduate/postgraduate taught masters degree on the enhanced/extended pattern M41 Diploma at level M M44 Certificate at level M M71 Postgraduate Certificate in Education or Professional Graduate Diploma in Education M80 Other taught qualification at level M M90 Taught work at level M for provider credit HUK UK first degree with honours HZZ Non-UK first degree H11 First degree with honours leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)/registration with a General Teaching Council (GTC) H71 Professional Graduate Certificate in Education H80 Other qualification at level H JUK UK ordinary (non-honours) first degree J10 Foundation degree J20 Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) J30 Higher National Diploma (HND) J49 Foundation course at level J J48 Certificate in Education (CertEd) or Diploma in Education (DipEd) (i.e. non-graduate initial teacher training qualification) J80 Other qualification at level J C20 Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) C30 Higher National Certificate (HNC) C44 Higher Apprenticeship (level 4) C80 Other qualification at level C C90 Undergraduate credits P41 Diploma at level 3 P42 Certificate at level 3 P46 Award at level 3 P47 AQA Baccalaureate (Bacc) P50 A/AS level P51 14-19 Advanced Diploma (level 3) P53 Scottish Baccalaureate P54 Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers P62 International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma P63 International Baccalaureate (IB) Certificate P64 Cambridge Pre-U Diploma P65 Cambridge Pre-U Certificate P68 Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma (level 3) P80 Other qualification at level 3 P92 Level 3 qualifications of which none are subject to UCAS Tariff P93 Level 3 qualifications of which all are subject to UCAS Tariff P94 Level 3 qualifications of which some are subject to UCAS Tariff Q51 14-19 Higher Diploma (level 2) Q52 Welsh Baccalaureate Intermediate Diploma (level 2) Q80 Other qualification at level 2 R51 14-19 Foundation Diploma (level 1) R52 Welsh Baccalaureate Foundation Diploma (level 1) R80 Other qualification at level 1 X00 Higher education (HE) access course, Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) recognised X01 Higher education (HE) access course, not Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) recognised X02 Mature student admitted on basis of previous experience and/or admissions test X04 Other qualification level not known X05 Student has no formal qualification X06 Not known
• Please indicate the grading of that qualification (Required)
• Please confirm the subject of your qualification (Required) Musical theatre Creative writing Textile design Ergonomics Fashion Fashion design Animation Film studies Fine art Graphic arts Graphic design Illustration Photography Music Performing arts Clothing production Footwear production Landscape architecture and design Housing Planning Textiles technology Music technology Audio technology Music production Film production Forestry and arboriculture Architectural design Drawing Landscape studies Painting Garden design Sculpture Fine art conservation Musicianship and performance studies Instrumental or vocal performance Music education and teaching Music and arts management Music marketing Jazz performance Popular music performance History of music Musicology Ethnomusicology and world music Music composition History of photography Cinematography Visual and audio effects Scriptwriting Poetry writing Professional writing Popular music Film music and screen music Jazz Sacred music Community music Sonic arts Electronic music Jazz composition Moving image techniques Film directing Film and sound recording Television studies Radio studies Publishing Electronic publishing Online publishing Research skills Cinematics Music therapy Interior design and architecture Folk music Opera Music theory and analysis Applied music and musicianship Popular music composition Other
• Please confirm the year awarded (Required)
• Last provider attended (Required) Fi4901 UK state school 4911 UK independent school 4921 UK FE college 4931 Any non-UK provider 4941 UK HEP 9999 Unknown
• Which of the following best describes your sexual orientation? (Required) 10 Bisexual 11 Gay or lesbian 12 Heterosexual or straight 19 Other sexual orientation 98 Prefer not to say
• What is your legal marital or registered civil partnership status? (Required) 10 Never married and never registered in a civil partnership 11 Married or in a registered civil partnership 12 Separated (but still legally married or in a civil partnership) 13 Divorced or formerly in a civil partnership which is now legally dissolved 14 Widowed or a surviving partner from a registered civil partnership 15 Co-habiting, with or without a legal contract 98 Prefer not to say
• What do you consider to be your national identity? (Required) B British E English I Irish O Other R Information refused S Scottish U Unknown W Welsh
• What is your ethnicity or ethnic group? (Required) 100 Asian - Bangladeshi or Bangladeshi British 101 Asian - Chinese or Chinese British 102 Asian - Filipino 103 Asian - Indian or Indian British 104 Asian - Pakistani or Pakistani British 119 Any other Asian background 120 Black - African or African British 121 Black - Caribbean or Caribbean British 139 Any other Black background 140 Mixed or multiple ethnic groups - White or White British and Asian or Asian British 141 Mixed or multiple ethnic groups - White or White British and Black African or Black African British 142 Mixed or multiple ethnic groups - White or White British and Black Caribbean or Black Caribbean British 159 Any other Mixed or Multiple ethnic background 160 White - English, Scottish, Welsh, Northern Irish or British 161 White - English, Welsh, Northern Irish or British 162 White - British, Irish, Northern Irish, English, Scottish or Welsh 163 White - Gypsy or Irish Traveller 164 White - Gypsy or Traveller 165 White - Irish Traveller 166 White - Irish 167 White - Polish 168 White - Roma 169 White - Scottish 170 White - Showman / Showwoman 179 Any other White background 180 Arab 899 Any other ethnic background 997 Not known 998 Prefer not to say
• Which religious background were you brought up in? (Required) 20 No religion 21 Buddhist 24 Christian - Roman Catholic 25 Christian - Presbyterian Church in Ireland 26 Christian - Church of Ireland 27 Christian - Methodist Church in Ireland 28 Christian - Other denomination 29 Hindu 30 Jewish 31 Muslim 33 Sikh 80 Any other religion or belief 98 Prefer not to say
• Please indicate your religious belief (Required) 20 No religion 21 Buddhist 22 Christian 23 Christian - Church of Scotland 24 Christian - Roman Catholic 25 Christian - Presbyterian Church in Ireland 26 Christian - Church of Ireland 27 Christian - Methodist Church in Ireland 28 Christian - Other denomination 29 Hindu 30 Jewish 31 Muslim 32 Pagan 33 Sikh 80 Any other religion or belief 98 Prefer not to say
• Is your gender identity the same as the gender you were originally assigned at birth? (Required) Yes No Information refused Not available
• Do you care for someone who, due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction cannot cope without your support? (Required) 1 Not a carer 2 Carer 98 Prefer not to say
• Please confirm if you are a care leaver (Required) 1 Care leaver (16+) 2 Looked after in Scotland 3 In care in the rest of the UK 4 UCAS defined care leaver 5 Not a care leaver 98 Information refused 99 Not available
• Please indicate your current or last job occupation (Required) Not stated Information refused Retired Unemployed Not known Chief executives and senior officials Elected officers and representatives Production managers and directors in manufacturing Production managers and directors in construction Production managers and directors in mining and energy Financial managers and directors Marketing and sales directors Purchasing managers and directors Advertising and public relations directors Human resource managers and directors Information technology and telecommunications directors Functional managers and directors n.e.c. Financial institution managers and directors Managers and directors in transport and distribution Managers and directors in storage and warehousing Officers in armed forces Senior police officers Senior officers in fire, ambulance, prison and related services Health services and public health managers and directors Social services managers and directors Managers and directors in retail and wholesale Managers and proprietors in agriculture and horticulture Managers and proprietors in forestry, fishing and related services Hotel and accommodation managers and proprietors Restaurant and catering establishment managers and proprietors Publicans and managers of licensed premises Leisure and sports managers Travel agency managers and proprietors Health care practice managers Residential, day and domiciliary care managers and proprietors Property, housing and estate managers Garage managers and proprietors Hairdressing and beauty salon managers and proprietors Shopkeepers and proprietors ‰ÛÒ wholesale and retail Waste disposal and environmental services managers Managers and proprietors in other services n.e.c. Chemical scientists Biological scientists and biochemists Physical scientists Social and humanities scientists Natural and social science professionals n.e.c. Civil engineers Mechanical engineers Electrical engineers Electronics engineers Design and development engineers Production and process engineers Engineering professionals n.e.c. IT specialist managers IT project and programme managers IT business analysts, architects and systems designers Programmers and software development professionals Web design and development professionals Information technology and telecommunications professionals n.e.c. Conservation professionals Environment professionals Research and development managers Medical practitioners Psychologists Pharmacists Ophthalmic opticians Dental practitioners Veterinarians Medical radiographers Podiatrists Health professionals n.e.c. Physiotherapists Occupational therapists Speech and language therapists Therapy professionals n.e.c. Nurses Midwives Higher education teaching professionals Further education teaching professionals Secondary education teaching professionals Primary and nursery education teaching professionals Special needs education teaching professionals Senior professionals of educational establishments Education advisers and school inspectors Teaching and other educational professionals n.e.c. Barristers and judges Solicitors Legal professionals n.e.c. Chartered and certified accountants Management consultants and business analysts Business and financial project management professionals Actuaries, economists and statisticians Business and related research professionals Business, research and administrative professionals n.e.c. Architects Town planning officers Quantity surveyors Chartered surveyors Chartered architectural technologists Construction project managers and related professionals Social workers Probation officers Clergy Welfare professionals n.e.c. Librarians Archivists and curators Quality control and planning engineers Quality assurance and regulatory professionals Environmental health professionals Journalists, newspaper and periodical editors Public relations professionals Advertising accounts managers and creative directors Laboratory technicians Electrical and electronics technicians Engineering technicians Building and civil engineering technicians Quality assurance technicians Planning, process and production technicians Science, engineering and production technicians n.e.c. Architectural and town planning technicians Draughtspersons IT operations technicians IT user support technicians Paramedics Dispensing opticians Pharmaceutical technicians Medical and dental technicians Health associate professionals n.e.c. Youth and community workers Child and early years officers Housing officers Counsellors Welfare and housing associate professionals n.e.c. NCOs and other ranks Police officers (sergeant and below) Fire service officers (watch manager and below) Prison service officers (below principal officer) Police community support officers Protective service associate professionals n.e.c. Artists Authors, writers and translators Actors, entertainers and presenters Dancers and choreographers Musicians Arts officers, producers and directors Photographers, audio-visual and broadcasting equipment operators Graphic designers Product, clothing and related designers Sports players Sports coaches, instructors and officials Fitness instructors Air traffic controllers Aircraft pilots and flight engineers Ship and hovercraft officers Legal associate professionals Estimators, valuers and assessors Brokers Insurance underwriters Finance and investment analysts and advisers Taxation experts Importers and exporters Financial and accounting technicians Financial accounts managers Business and related associate professionals n.e.c. Buyers and procurement officers Business sales executives Marketing associate professionals Estate agents and auctioneers Sales accounts and business development managers Conference and exhibition managers and organisers Conservation and environmental associate professionals Public services associate professionals Human resources and industrial relations officers Vocational and industrial trainers and instructors Careers advisers and vocational guidance specialists Inspectors of standards and regulations Health and safety officers National government administrative occupations Local government administrative occupations Officers of non-governmental organisations Credit controllers Book-keepers, payroll managers and wages clerks Bank and post office clerks Finance officers Financial administrative occupations n.e.c. Records clerks and assistants Pensions and insurance clerks and assistants Stock control clerks and assistants Transport and distribution clerks and assistants Library clerks and assistants Human resources administrative occupations Sales administrators Other administrative occupations n.e.c. Office managers Office supervisors Medical secretaries Legal secretaries School secretaries Company secretaries Personal assistants and other secretaries Receptionists Typists and related keyboard occupations Farmers Horticultural trades Gardeners and landscape gardeners Groundsmen and greenkeepers Agricultural and fishing trades n.e.c. Smiths and forge workers Moulders, core makers and die casters Sheet metal workers Metal plate workers, and riveters Welding trades Pipe fitters Metal machining setters and setter-operators Tool makers, tool fitters and markers-out Metal working production and maintenance fitters Precision instrument makers and repairers Air-conditioning and refrigeration engineers Vehicle technicians, mechanics and electricians Vehicle body builders and repairers Vehicle paint technicians Aircraft maintenance and related trades Boat and ship builders and repairers Rail and rolling stock builders and repairers Electricians and electrical fitters Telecommunications engineers TV, video and audio engineers IT engineers Electrical and electronic trades n.e.c. Skilled metal, electrical and electronic trades supervisors Steel erectors Bricklayers and masons Roofers, roof tilers and slaters Plumbers and heating and ventilating engineers Carpenters and joiners Glaziers, window fabricators and fitters Construction and building trades n.e.c. Plasterers Floorers and wall tilers Painters and decorators Construction and building trades supervisors Weavers and knitters Upholsterers Footwear and leather working trades Tailors and dressmakers Textiles, garments and related trades n.e.c. Pre-press technicians Printers Print finishing and binding workers Butchers Bakers and flour confectioners Fishmongers and poultry dressers Chefs Cooks Catering and bar managers Glass and ceramics makers, decorators and finishers Furniture makers and other craft woodworkers Florists Other skilled trades n.e.c. Nursery nurses and assistants Childminders and related occupations Playworkers Teaching assistants Educational support assistants Veterinary nurses Pest control officers Animal care services occupations n.e.c. Nursing auxiliaries and assistants Ambulance staff (excluding paramedics) Dental nurses Houseparents and residential wardens Care workers and home carers Senior care workers Care escorts Undertakers, mortuary and crematorium assistants Sports and leisure assistants Travel agents Air travel assistants Rail travel assistants Leisure and travel service occupations n.e.c. Hairdressers and barbers Beauticians and related occupations Housekeepers and related occupations Caretakers Cleaning and housekeeping managers and supervisors Sales and retail assistants Retail cashiers and check-out operators Telephone salespersons Pharmacy and other dispensing assistants Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers Collector salespersons and credit agents Debt, rent and other cash collectors Roundspersons and van salespersons Market and street traders and assistants Merchandisers and window dressers Sales related occupations n.e.c. Sales supervisors Call and contact centre occupations Telephonists Communication operators Market research interviewers Customer service occupations n.e.c. Customer service managers and supervisors Food, drink and tobacco process operatives Glass and ceramics process operatives Textile process operatives Chemical and related process operatives Rubber process operatives Plastics process operatives Metal making and treating process operatives Electroplaters Process operatives n.e.c. Paper and wood machine operatives Coal mine operatives Quarry workers and related operatives Energy plant operatives Metal working machine operatives Water and sewerage plant operatives Printing machine assistants Plant and machine operatives n.e.c. Assemblers (electrical and electronic products) Assemblers (vehicles and metal goods) Routine inspectors and testers Weighers, graders and sorters Tyre, exhaust and windscreen fitters Sewing machinists Assemblers and routine operatives n.e.c. Scaffolders, stagers and riggers Road construction operatives Rail construction and maintenance operatives Construction operatives n.e.c. Large goods vehicle drivers Van drivers Bus and coach drivers Taxi and cab drivers and chauffeurs Driving instructors Crane drivers Fork-lift truck drivers Agricultural machinery drivers Mobile machine drivers and operatives n.e.c. Train and tram drivers Marine and waterways transport operatives Air transport operatives Rail transport operatives Other drivers and transport operatives n.e.c. Farm workers Forestry workers Fishing and other elementary agriculture occupations n.e.c. Elementary construction occupations Industrial cleaning process occupations Packers, bottlers, canners and fillers Elementary process plant occupations n.e.c. Postal workers, mail sorters, messengers and couriers Elementary administration occupations n.e.c. Window cleaners Street cleaners Cleaners and domestics Launderers, dry cleaners and pressers Refuse and salvage occupations Vehicle valeters and cleaners Elementary cleaning occupations n.e.c. Security guards and related occupations Parking and civil enforcement occupations School midday and crossing patrol occupations Elementary security occupations n.e.c. Shelf fillers Elementary sales occupations n.e.c. Elementary storage occupations Hospital porters Kitchen and catering assistants Waiters and waitresses Bar staff Leisure and theme park attendants Other elementary services occupations n.e.c.
• Please indicate your occupation type (Required) 01 Modern professional occupations 02 Clerical and intermediate occupations 03 Senior managers or administrators 04 Technical and craft occupations 05 Semi-routine manual and service occupations 06 Routine manual and service operations 07 Middle or junior managers 08 Traditional professional occupations 09 Never been in paid work 90 Not known 98 Information refused
• Please indicate the current or last area of work (Required) 1 Higher managerial & professional occupations 2 Lower managerial & professional occupations 3 Intermediate occupation 4 Small employers & own account workers 5 Lower supervisory & technical occupations 6 Semi-routine occupations 7 Routine occupations 8 Never worked & long-term unemployed 9 Not classified
• Have your parents ever studied in Higher education? (Required) 1 Yes 2 No 97 Not known 98 Information refused 99 Not available
• Do you have any dependents? (Required) 1 Young people/children 2 Other relatives/friends 3 No dependants 4 Both young people/children and relatives/friends 98 Prefer not to say
• Which of the following best describes your ability to speak Welsh? (Required) 1 Fluent 2 Can speak a fair amount 3 Can only speak a little 4 Can just say a few words
• Have you previously undertaken a Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma Course? (Required) 3 Did not undertake Welsh Baccalaureate Advncd Diploma course 1 Undertook Welsh Bacc Advncd Dip - awarded qualification 2 Undertook Welsh Bacc Advncd Dip - not awarded qualification
• Would you consider yourself estranged from your family (i.e. not supported by your family)? (Required) 1 Yes 2 No 98 Prefer not to say An estranged person is someone who no longer has the support of their family due to a breakdown in their relationship which has led to ceased contact. This might mean your biological, step or adoptive parents or wider family members who have been responsible for supporting you in the past. Tick Yes if you feel this description applies to you.
• Where did you hear about us? (Required) Online Search Through the UCA Website UCAS Facebook Twitter Apple News Medium.com Art & Music (Mag) Art in Liverpool (Mag) Art Monthly (Mag) Artist & Illustrator (Mag) BBC Music (Mag) BJP (Mag) Black & White Photography (Mag) Boom (Mag) Cello Print Making Choir & Organ (Mag) Classical Music (Mag) Computer Arts (Mag) Crafts Magazine (Mag) Creative Review Design Week Digital Camera (Mag) DSLR (Mag) Embroidery (Mag) Eye (Mag) Fibre Art Now (Mag) Gramophone (Mag) Illustration (Mag) Link (Mag) Mslexia (Mag) N- Photo (Mag) National Trust (Mag) Outdoor Photography (Mag) Painters Online Photo Plus (Mag) Photoworks (Mag) Practical Photography (Mag) Printmaking today (Mag) Professional Photographer (Mag) RPS (Mag) Selvedge (Mag) SOURCE: Photographic Review (Mag) The Artist (Mag) Varoom (Mag) Writers Forum (Mag) Writing Magazine Other
• Other source (please specify)

Terms and Conditions

• I have read, understand and agree to the Terms and Conditions and Associated Policies for OCA 2023/24 and the Academic Regulations for Subsidiary Institutions of The Open University
• I have read, understand and agree to the Terms and Conditions and Associated Policies for OCA 2024/25 and the Academic Regulations for Subsidiary Institutions of The Open University
• I confirm that I have not been subject to any disciplinary procedures as laid out in either the OCA Student Code of Conduct or the OU Code of Practice for Student Discipline .
• I confirm that I give the OCA my consent to hold my up-to-date details on the OCA databases in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018, and providing required information to HESA, Office for Students or their appointed agents, as described in the Student Regulations, and processed in line with with OCA's Data Protection and Confidentiality Policy
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

MA Creative Writing

Course options

Key Details

Course Overview

UEA pioneered the teaching of Creative Writing more than 50 years ago and is globally regarded as a leader of the subject. UEA has mentored countless award-winning authors, including Booker Prize winners Ian McEwan, Anne Enright, and Nobel Laureate Sir Kazuo Ishiguro. 

But today Creative Writing is changing, and so are we. Stories are now adapted from novels to streaming platforms to games and so much more. Digital technologies and AI are reshaping writing's possibilities and practical applications. Exciting fusion genres from authors across the globe are dominating bestseller lists and streaming platforms. Career opportunities in the creative industries across the world are increasingly vibrant and ever more dynamic. 

This course will equip you to engage with this world and its vast audiences, now and in the future.  You'll have the unique opportunity to work across forms of writing to help you discover and enhance your talent. You'll explore prose fiction and non-fiction, script and poetry, and hybrid, multimodal, and cross-genre writing. You'll also have the opportunity to develop all kinds of industry-oriented genre writing, from speculative fiction to young adult, fantasy to historical. You'll learn how AI and digital technology are transforming our ideas of writing and writers. You'll also find opportunities to experiment with writing for multiple digital realities and platforms, which are widely accessible and easily integrated. Most of all, you’ll develop skills to get noticed, published and build an audience in this digital world.  

At the same time, you'll benefit from UEA's established teaching excellence, creative writing workshops, and unrivalled connections with the fast-changing publishing industry in the UK and beyond. You'll become part of the university’s vibrant creative writing ecosystem, with events such as UEA Live , research and internship opportunities in the British Archive for Contemporary Writing , and a host of more informal occasions to share and celebrate your work and hear from prize-winning alumni. You’ll study in the historic city of Norwich, one of UNESCO’s Cities of Literature . You'll benefit from UEA's exceptional expertise in the world-wide breadth and history of literature, building your confidence and authority as a writer. 

You'll graduate a respected and versatile writer, steeped in practical and professional knowledge. You might translate that experience into a career in the creative industries, such as publishing and editing, writing for advertising, marketing, arts, culture, heritage and GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums) sector organisations, VR and XR experiences, digital gaming, streaming TV, and more. You may be embarking on a new writing career or you may be an established professional looking to upskill in a changing environment. Perhaps you want to understand more about writing and feel the thrill of seeing your work come together on page or screen. Whatever your ambitions, this course will inspire and enable you to discover your own voice and make the most of it in the next stage in your writer’s journey. 

Study and Modules

This is a year-long course. You'll take two taught modules each semester, and then over the summer you'll complete your dissertation (submitted early September) with the support of your supervisor.   

In the autumn semester, you'll take a Creative Writing workshop in which you'll explore and experiment with a range of forms of writing, from genre fiction to screenwriting and poetry, establishing a competency and confidence across genres.  

At the same time and in dialogue with this module, you'll also be studying the ways digital technology is reshaping writing. This may in turn inspire your creative workshop, leading you to work with multimodal forms or interactive narratives. By the end of the semester, you'll have a firm sense of the exciting potential of writing for new technologies and have begun to incorporate that potential into your writer’s toolkit.  

In the second semester, you'll take a second Creative Writing workshop where you'll continue to establish your craft, confidence and professionalism as a writer across forms. By the end of the semester, you might decide to specialise in a single form or continue to commit to the path of versatility and hybrid experimentation.  

Alongside this second semester module, you'll choose from a rich range of optional modules across the School and Faculty. These draw especially on the wealth of knowledge and experience of the School's literary critics, and currently include modules on writing and play (which encourages your own playful experiments in writing), contemporary fiction, or how writing is inspired by place. These modules will help put your own writing into context and provide you with touchstones for your own creations. 

Over the summer, you'll plunge into the thrilling culmination of your MA – your creative writing dissertation. You'll be supported by a member of our Creative Writing team as you write your project, which will become your calling-card as a writer and help to launch the next phase of your career.    

Compulsory Modules

Workshop: introduction to forms, workshop: finding your forms, creative writing in a digital world, creative writing dissertation, creative writing research methodology conference, optional a modules, theory and practice of fiction, creative encounters, adaptation and interpretation, process and product in translation, creative-critical writing, ludic literature, environmental humanities: human cultures and the natural world, digital storytelling, japanese literature, the non fiction novel, the poetics of place, critically queer: sex, gender and sexuality.

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.

Teaching and Learning

Throughout the course, you'll benefit from UEA's unrivalled Creative Writing tuition and literary critical expertise. Expert creative writers will both lead your workshops and supervise your dissertation, helping to mentor you as you find your voice as a writer. You'll encounter leading practitioners of many of the forms you'll explore – novelists, scriptwriters, poets – who will help you to hone your craft and give their tips and insights into success in each genre. 

Literature tutors will introduce you to traditions of writing from across the globe, helping you to interpret them and put them into context. But they'll also support you in your own creative experimentation. UEA has many years of experience pioneering forms of 'creative-critical' pedagogy, where you are invited to demonstrate your critical thinking and understanding through writing creatively. In this exciting environment, creative and critical thinking are often fused together.  

Finally, your encounters with contemporary creative digital technology will be facilitated by our cutting-edge BLOC resources . These include our Music and Media Suite, which offers facilities for podcasting, digital design and publishing, audio production, and access to a host of creative software. These facilities are also supported by a superb team of professional technicians who will support you as you discover new creative abilities.  

Over the course of the MA, you’ll build and develop your portfolio of writing. At the end of each of the workshops you'll submit work which demonstrates your growing versatility, craft, and experience as a writer. In your module focused on digital writing, you’ll also be assessed on the underlying writing you produce for a digital form – this could be writing for a podcast, game, XR experience, or even a combination of forms. Your optional module may invite you to write a literary critical essay, further creative work, or an experimental creative-critical piece. Finally, your dissertation will bring your whole creative journey together, where you’ll produce an original piece of 12-15,000 words in length (or equivalent weight, in your chosen form(s)). This piece will be a reflection of the writer you have become. It may demonstrate your growing mastery of a single form – a substantial extract from a work of genre fiction, for instance – or it may show off your dexterity in moving across forms. You may also choose to focus on the digital side of your degree, producing writing for multimodal platforms, such as digital gaming or immersive VR experience. 

Entry Requirements

UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.

Degree classification

Bachelors degree - 2.2

Degree Subject

Any subject

Candidates are required to submit a portfolio of writing for assessment with their application  of 2500-3000 words in length. This could be part of a novel, non-fiction prose, script, poetry, a combination of short pieces from multiple forms, or a hybrid piece which combines forms together.

Our  Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.

UK Bachelors degree - 2.2 or equivalent 

Any subject 

Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):   

IELTS:  6.5 overall (minimum 6 in all areas) 

We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.  

Test dates should be within two years of the course start date. 

 If you do not meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the required English skills.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2025/26 are: 

UK Students: £10,675

International Students: £22,700

We estimate living expenses at £1,023 per month. 

Further Information on tuition fees can be found  here .

Course Related Costs

Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs. 

How to Apply

How to apply.

Applications for Postgraduate Taught programmes at the University of East Anglia should be made directly to the University. 

To apply please use our  online application form . 

Further information

If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances prior to applying, please do contact us: 

Postgraduate Admissions Office 

Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515  Email:  [email protected]  

International candidates are also encouraged to access the  International Students  section of our website. 

Employability

After the course.

You'll graduate as a confident creative writer, with an understanding of genre, audience, and the craft needed to shape writing. You'll also have a strong awareness of the contemporary writer's world and the digital dexterity needed to navigate it. This may lead to a career as a successful novelist or scriptwriter. You'll also be ready for careers across the creative industries: in publishing and journalism; marketing; roles in the arts, culture, heritage and GLAM (galleries, libraries, archives and museums) sectors; writing for digital gaming and the creative computing sectors. The creative confidence our courses give graduates have also underpinned successful business entrepreneurship. Graduates from our Creative Writing MA courses go on to careers in teaching or undertake PhDs (including UEA's own creative-critical PhDs). Many also undertake our courses for the profound pleasure and sense of achievement given by writing itself.  

Examples of careers that you could enter include: 

• Novelist/Scriptwriter 
• Publishing or Journalism 
• Marketing 
• Arts/GLAM-sector roles 
• Writing for digital gaming or creative computing sectors 
• Teaching or Academic careers 

Discover more on our Careers pages .  

Related Courses

Ma creative writing scriptwriting.

Develop your writing craft, industry knowledge, and dramaturgical understanding as you learn with renowned writers for theatre, screen, and radio along with visiting specialists on this world-leading ...

MA Creative Writing Prose Fiction

Transform yourself as a writer by studying the craft of prose fiction with an internationally excellent cohort of other writers. This course, taught by distinguished and committed faculty, will challe...

MA Creative Writing Poetry

Immerse yourself in the craft and study of poetry, discovering more about the variety and nuances of the artform, and about yourself as a poet. Learning from practising and highly-regarded poets, you’...

Creative Writing starting September 2025 for 1 years

• Schools & departments

Creative Writing MSc

Awards: MSc

Funding opportunities

Programme website: Creative Writing

The community has been one of my favourite parts. The department has very warm and encouraging staff. Some of my classmates are now close friends, and we still workshop stories across time zones, and complain to each other about writing - and not writing! Bhavika Govil, prize-winning fiction writer MSc in Creative Writing, 2020

Introduction to Postgraduate Study at the University of Edinburgh

Join us online on 25 September to learn more about Scotland, the city of Edinburgh and postgraduate study at the University.

Find out more and register

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:

• presenting your work for peer discussion
• hearing from guest writers and other professionals on the practicalities of life as a writer

You will also sharpen your critical skills through:

• seminars exploring the particulars of your chosen form
• option courses in literature, helping you move from theoretical considerations to practical applications

The programme culminates with the publication of ‘From Arthur’s Seat,’ an anthology of student work.

Why Edinburgh

Literature has been taught here for over 250 years, and today Edinburgh thrives on its designation as the first UNESCO World City of Literature. The city is home to the National Library of Scotland and the Scottish Poetry Library, and a number of celebrated publishing outlets, from Canongate and Polygon, to Luath Press, Birlinn and Mariscat. The University hosts the prestigious James Tait Black Awards, established in 1919 and one of the oldest literary prizes in Britain.

There are lots of opportunities to write and share your work, from ‘The Student,’ the UK’s oldest student newspaper (founded in 1887 by Robert Louis Stevenson), to The Selkie, which was founded by Creative Writing students in 2018 to showcase work by people who self-identify as underrepresented.

Around the city, you will find:

• library readings and bookshop launches
• spoken word gigs
• cabaret nights
• poetry slams

Edinburgh isn’t just historic – it’s a modern hub for literature. That’s part of what makes the city great for writing.

Austin Crowley, MSc in Creative Writing, 2023

We team teach our programme so that you benefit from the input of a range of tutors, as well as your fellow students and our Writer in Residence, the poet and author Michael Pedersen, who also co-ordinates a range of student writing prizes and our annual industry and networking event.

The academic staff you will be working with are all active researchers or authors, including well-published and prize-winning writers of poetry, prose fiction and drama. They include:

• Dr Jane Alexander - Fiction
• Dr Lynda Clark
• Dr Patrick Errington - Poetry/Fiction
• Dr Miriam Gamble - Poetry
• Professor Alan Gillis - Poetry
• Dr Jane McKie - Poetry
• Dr Allyson Stack - Fiction
• Kim Sherwood - Fiction
• Alice Thompson - Fiction

Programme structure

Over the duration of the programme, you will:

• take two core courses, both worth 40 credits
• two optional courses chosen from a wide range of subjects, both worth 20 credits

The core activities in Creative Writing are:

• tutor-led workshops, in which you will present your work-in-progress and critique the work of your fellow students
• regular seminars exploring techniques and issues specific to your practice (either fiction or poetry) and the statements and theories of practitioners

Optional courses

We have a large number of option courses to choose from, including preferred courses for fiction and poetry (which will be offered to Creative Writing students in the first instance), and courses from across the Department of English Literature and the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures.

Visiting speakers

Throughout the programme, you will be expected to attend readings and talks by visiting speakers. Early on, these will be from published writers and, later, advisors from the writing business: literary agents, magazine editors and publishers.

Dissertation

The final element of the programme is your dissertation, a piece of creative writing (worth 60 credits) written with the advice and support of a designated supervisor.

Fiction dissertations are between 15,000 words and 20,000 words, and poetry dissertations between 25 and 30 pages.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this course, you should be able to:

• identify, conceptualise and define formal elements of craft in your chosen field (poetry or fiction) within published works and within works by your peers
• remain open to criticism and respond effectively and creatively to feedback on your own creative work
• work from initial conception through multiple drafts to the final version of a creative piece within your chosen field (fiction or poetry)
• transfer editorial skills and creative abilities from one context to another
• analyse creative works within your chosen field (fiction or poetry), work with a focus on craft effectiveness, and articulate strengths and weaknesses in a piece of writing in a constructive manner

Career opportunities

Over the course of this programme, you will complete a body of creative work that has been rigorously peer reviewed.

Our students go on to careers in a wide variety of fields, including:

• arts administration
• web and audio book editing
• script and ghost writing
• gaming narrative design

Some decide to extend their studies and take a PhD with us.

Many of our alumni go on to achieve literary success, publishing novels and short story and poetry collections, and winning awards. Our graduates’ recent successes include:

debut novels from:

• Amanda Block (The Lost Storyteller, published by Hodder Studio)
• Karin Nordin (Where Ravens Roost, published by Harper Collins)
• Marielle Thompson (Where Ivy Dares to Grow, published by Kensington Books)
• August Thomas (Liar’s Candle, published by Simon and Schuster)
• Rosie Walker (Secrets of a Serial Killer, published by One More Chapter)
• Mark Wightman (Waking the Tiger, published by Hobeck Books and shortlisted for Scottish Crime Debut of the Year 2021)

debut short story collections from:

• Dayle Furlong (Lake Effect, published by Cormorant Books)
• Dima Alzayat (Alligator and Other Stories, shortlisted for the James Tait Black Award for Fiction)
• a non-fiction debut from Sonali Misra (21 Fantastic Failures, published by Rupa Publications India)

debut poetry collections from:

• Rebecca Tamás (WITCH, published by Penned in the Margins)
• Naomi Morris (Hyperlove, published by Makina Books)
• Aileen Ballantyne (Taking Flight, published by Luath Press)
• the 2022 Edwin Morgan Poetry Award, won by Alyson Kissner
• the 2021 Brotherton Poetry Prize, won by Lauren Pope
• the 2021 Pontas & JJ Bola Emerging Writers Prize, won by Bhavika Govil

Meet our graduates

From Arthur’s Seat – stories from the heart of Edinburgh

Tim Tim Cheng

• Bhavika Govil
• Dima Alzayat

What's the best type of masters programme for you?

Entry requirements.

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in any discipline. This will often be in a directly related subject like English Literature/Creative Writing, but we welcome applicants from all academic backgrounds.

Applicants who are entered into selection will be asked to provide a sample of written work to enable their suitability for the programme to be assessed.

Students from China

This degree is Band C.

• Postgraduate entry requirements for students from China

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 100 with at least 23 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 185 with at least 176 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE III with passes in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 70 with at least 62 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

• Fees and costs

Read our general information on tuition fees and studying costs:

Scholarships and funding

Featured funding.

If you are intending to study full time on this Creative Writing programme, you are eligible for a William Hunter Sharpe Memorial Scholarship which will contribute towards your tuition fees.

You do not need to apply for this scholarship – all eligible candidates who apply for the programme by Monday 6 May 2024 will be considered for them and contacted if successful.

• Find out more about the William Hunter Sharpe Memorial Scholarship and other scholarships in literatures, languages and cultures

UK government postgraduate loans

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your tuition fee status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• Phone: +44 (0)131 650 4086
• Contact: College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences Admissions Office
• School of Literatures, Languages & Cultures
• 50 George Square
• Central Campus
• Programme: Creative Writing
• School: Literatures, Languages & Cultures
• College: Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

This programme is not currently accepting applications. Applications for the next intake usually open in October.

Start date: September

Application deadlines

Due to high demand, the school operates a number of selection deadlines. We will make a small number of offers to the most outstanding candidates on an ongoing basis, but hold the majority of applications until the next published selection deadline when we will offer a proportion of the places available to applicants selected through a competitive process.

Please be aware that applications must be submitted and complete, i.e. all required documents uploaded, by the relevant application deadline in order to be considered in that round. Your application will still be considered if you have not yet met the English language requirement for the programme.

Deadlines for applicants applying to study in 2024/25:

(Revised 27 March 2024 to extend Round 3 application deadline)

• How to apply

The online application process involves the completion of a web form and the submission of supporting documents.

You should supply a portfolio of writing.

• For poetry, this should be six (6) pages of poetry, starting a new page for each new poem of 14 lines or over.
• For fiction, this should be a complete story or stories, or an equivalent amount from a longer work (between 2,500 and 3,500 words).

These are firm limits.

If you are undecided about whether to apply for fiction or poetry, you should send a sample of both, i.e. six (6) pages of poetry and 2,500-3,500 words of fiction (if offered a place it will be for one or the other).

Work in other forms (for example journalism, life writing or advertising) will not be considered.

Personal statement

When writing your personal statement, consider the following questions:

• What do you most hope to learn/gain from a Creative Writing degree, and why is ours the programme for you?
• Tell us about your writing: what are you interested in and why? Are there aspects of your current practice you're particularly proud of? Things you know you need to work on?

What (if any) prior experience do you have of studying Creative Writing?

Guidance on the application process and supporting documents

All supporting documents, including references, must be uploaded to the online application system by the deadline date.

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

Quick links

• Find a course
• Request a prospectus
• Postgraduate

Novel Writing MA (Online Distance Learning)

Search the website.

Writing a novel is on most bucket lists, but very few people make their dream a reality. Our fully flexible online MA enables you to develop your novel at your own pace, at times to suit your lifestyle, from anywhere in the world

Register your interest

• Chat to a tutor

Viewing course details for 2025 year of entry

• Course overview

About your course

• Teaching and learning

Facilities and support

Entry requirements.

• Fees and funding
• Related courses

Why study the Novel Writing Online Distance Learning MA at Middlesex University?

You’ll be supported throughout by acclaimed novelists, who are experienced creative writing lecturers with valuable industry links.

Our practical and contemporary approach to novel writing ensures you are able to hone your writing skills and develop your book while also identifying gaps in the market and how to approach agents and publishers.

Through our online campus you can access the support of our experts, while interacting with others on the course, at a time to suit you, and you complete the course in one year (full-time). From idea generation, to developing character and plot, to pitching your novel to publishers, this MA equips you to master your novel.

Course highlights

• Our teaching team are all experienced creative writing lecturers as well as being novelists – they include novelist, critic and TV director/producer Dr Adam Lively and fantasy novelist/critic Dr Adam Dalton
• You’ll be learning with state-of-the-art distance learning tools and 24-hour web support through our innovative online platform
• Creative writing at Middlesex has strong links with the publishing industry, including hosting the annual   North London Story Festival , which has included appearances by writers such as former poet laureate Carol-Anne Duffy, novelist David Nicholls and Booker Prize shortlisted author Stephen Kelman
• Get free access to the resources, learning materials and software

This course is subject to review.

What will you study on the Novel Writing MA?

This course is divided into five modules taken over three terms (if studied full time) which take you through the full process of writing a novel. While exploring in depth such key techniques of fiction as plotting, narrative voice, characterisation and background research, each module is also designed to be flexible and to allow you to bring your own writing interests and projects to the assignments, extending the boundaries of your current practice through self-reflection, research, analysis, and creative exploration.

Here is a brief overview of what you will study each year

Writing as a Novelist (30 Credits)​ - Compulsory

This module explores key writing techniques such as narrative, setting and characterisation, with reference to literary examples and the different methods used by writers in the creative process. This is an opportunity for you to explore the scenes and characters of your planned novel or develop a variety of ideas and approaches if you have not decided on the content of your story.

Reading as a Novelist (30 Credits)​​ - Compulsory

Building on the 'Reading as a Writer' concept (most famously explored in Francine Prose's book), this module explores how published writers handle the technical and ethical problems which are likely to present themselves in your writing. Through a combination of weekly 'practical criticism' exercises and an online 'book group' you will develop the analytical skills to improve your own writing and the problem-solving techniques to overcome any obstacles in your approach.

Research: Writing, Markets, Audiences (30 Credits)​​ - Compulsory​

This module explores the methods fiction-writers employ to research elements of their stories, as well as investigating the reasons why research is necessary – to provide authenticity, to avoid error, to create verisimilitude, and even to get inspiration. You will also learn about researching the possible markets, audiences and publishing outlets for your creative work.

Developing and Publishing the Novel (30 Credits)​​ - Compulsory​

This module moves on from the 'portfolio' focus of earlier modules to deal with the challenges of working on a specific novel. Through a series of writing exercises you will begin to evolve characters, explore themes and refine settings for your planned novel. This is an opportunity for you to begin the sustained prose narrative that is expected in the following dissertation.

Major Project (60 Credits)​​ - Compulsory​

Your final dissertation is an opportunity for you to take all the knowledge and skills you have acquired in the preceding modules and apply them to 20,000 words of an original novel with a synopsis for sending to an agent or publisher and an accompanying critical commentary.

To find out more, please download the Novel Writing MA (Online Distance Learning) course specification (PDF) .

Sign up now to receive more information about studying at Middlesex University London.

You'll be taught by an experienced teaching team with a wide range of expertise and professional experience.

How we'll teach you

Coursework and assessments.

How is the MA Novel Writing taught?

This course is an online distance learning programme, so all teaching and learning is done online.

You will meet, work and study with your fellow course participants and tutors in a virtual space which provides you with the flexibility to learn at your own pace, in your own time. Our Virtual Learning Environment encourages you to share your writing, interact, question, and participate with others on your course, ensuring you never feel as if you are studying in isolation.

You will learn through

• Carefully structured modules that take students through key aspects of novel-writing
• Tailored writing exercises, with accompanying feedback from tutors and fellow students
• Guided reading and interactive discussion and analysis
• One-to-one online tutorials on individual projects
• Extensive online support materials – e-books, videos.

Where will I study?

This course will be taught online.

Assessment is on the basis of creative work, including a 15,000-word final submission, along with reflection on the writing process in the form of discussion posts, on-line learning journals and critical commentaries.

Our Sheppard Library provides a wide range of resources and support to help you to succeed in your studies.

Over 1,000 study spaces including rooms for group study and over 500 computers available.

We have one of London's biggest and best university campuses with everything you need in one place.

Student support.

We offer lots of support to help you while you're studying including financial advice, wellbeing, mental health, and disability support.

Additional needs

We'll support you if you have additional needs such as sensory impairment or dyslexia. And if you want to find out whether Middlesex is the right place for you before you apply, get in touch with our Disability and Dyslexia team .

Our specialist teams will support your mental health. We have free individual counselling sessions, workshops, support groups and useful guides.

Work while you study

Our Middlesex Unitemps branch will help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above. Visit the Middlesex Unitemps page.

North London campus

Our north London campus is 23 minutes away by underground train, travelling from London Kings Cross.

• International
• How to apply

Qualifications

We normally require a second class honours degree 2:2 or above, or equivalent qualification (a writer has to have something to write about!). We will also accept individuals with a minimum of three years' work experience,

Those without formal qualifications will need to demonstrate relevant writing experience and the ability to study at postgraduate level.

2,000 word submission

To be accepted to study on the Novel Writing MA, we are particularly looking for writing promise, ambition and dedication. All applicants are required to submit 2,000 words of recently written work as part of their application. This should be as a Word document. It is likely to be creative writing in prose form, e.g. an excerpt from a short story or novel, or it could be an essay or piece of creative non-fiction, for example. 

We accept the equivalent recognised overseas qualifications for a 2:2 degree or above, or equivalent qualification (a writer has to have something to write about!). We will also accept individuals with a minimum of three years' work experience. Those without formal qualifications will need to demonstrate relevant writing experience and the ability to study at postgraduate level.

To find out more about the qualifications we accept,  visit the your country support page . If you are unsure about the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest regional office for support.

We are particularly looking for writing promise, ambition and dedication. All applicants are required to submit 2,000 words of recently written work as part of their application. This should be as a Word document. It is likely to be creative writing in prose form, e.g. an excerpt from a short story or novel, or it could be an essay or piece of creative non-fiction, for example. 

English language 

You must have competence in English language to study with us. IELTS must have minimum 6.5 overall with 6.5 in Reading, Listening and Speaking and a minimum 7.0 in Written component for 202410. We also normally require Grade C GCSE or an equivalent qualification.

If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, we offer an intensive Pre-sessional English course .

Applications for postgraduate study should be made directly to the university. Please visit our postgraduate application page for further information and to apply.

The fees below are for the 2025/26 academic year.

UK 1 / International students 2

Full-time students: £8,600

As an undergraduate alumnus continuing postgraduate studies at Middlesex, you are eligible for an alumni award worth 20% off your fees.

Fees disclaimers

1. UK fees: The university reserves the right to increase postgraduate tuition fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions. The tuition fees for part-time UK study are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.

2. International fees: Tuition fees are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.

Any annual increase in tuition fees as provided for above will be notified to students at the earliest opportunity in advance of the academic year to which any applicable inflationary rise may apply.

Get answers from our Unibuddy student ambassadors

Related courses for you.

• How to apply arrow_forward_ios
• Get in touch arrow_forward_ios
• Book an open day arrow_forward_ios

Explore your prospectus

Take your first step to the future you want with our guide to Middlesex

We’ll carefully manage any future changes to courses, or the support and other services available to you, if these are necessary because of things like changes to government health and safety advice, or any changes to the law.

Any decisions will be taken in line with both external advice and the University’s Regulations which include information on this.

Our priority will always be to maintain academic standards and quality so that your learning outcomes are not affected by any adjustments that we may have to make.

At all times we’ll aim to keep you well informed of how we may need to respond to changing circumstances, and about support that we’ll provide to you.

Why not explore

Join us on campus to discover more about our range of courses, and get a feel for life at Middlesex for yourself

The university promotes research and encourages students to participate in research projects

Accommodation

We’ll help you find your new home in London while you study at Middlesex

Student Life

Find out more about what life is like on Campus

Modal video

020 3376 7945

• [email protected]

Learn the skills you need to succeed with our industry recognised courses.

Our courses were developed by industry experts - learn from the professionals.

Discuss your options with our experienced team to find the right course for you.

Our experienced team can answer any questions you have about our courses, general enquiries and payment options. Simply complete this form and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Our philosophy at the British Academy of Creative Writing is to make high-quality education accessible to all by empowering people to do what they love. Through the power of online and blended learning, our students are able to harness their creativity and practically apply it to succeed in their chosen careers.

Pursue your ambition - because the future is today!

Common misconceptions about creative writing

We highlight the benefits of developing your creative writing skills

Building your first story from scratch

Finding your unique voice: Strategies for distinctive storytelling

Our successful students celebrate their recent achievements

The British Academy of Creative Writing is a leading provider of accredited, industry recognised creative writing qualifications in UK.

0161 5246 537

0121 3121 661

0131 3221 081

0289 6943 706

029 2271 2268

0117 463 5237

British Academy of Creative Writing ©2024

• home study Courses
• Certificate
• Postgraduate Diploma
• live online Courses
• classroom Courses
• Accreditation
• Work Placement
• Enrol Online
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy

Request Brochure

Forgotten password.

To recover your student number or password please enter your email address below and we will send it to you.

Every donation directly supports writers, translators, and communities to experience the art and joy of creating with words.

Choose an amount: £ 0

Support us in other ways:

Introduction

There are lots of online creative writing courses to choose from. But, choosing the best online creative writing course for you can be challenging. This is because value is hard to compare as so many courses offer differing levels of expertise, tutor access and duration. Some will just be better than others. It may also be unclear what level of course you should choose.

This guide will help you choose the best online creative writing course by defining exactly what you want to achieve as well as offering guidance on trusted brands, on- vs offline and cost.

First, get a piece of paper or open a new document on your computer – and be ready to start making notes!

What do you want to achieve?

This may sound obvious, but there are so many courses available with particular focuses, that it’s easy to choose the wrong one.

First, write down what you are. For example:

• A complete beginner with no formal training
• An early career writer
• A lover of crime writing
• A professional writer (journalism, marketing)
• A ghostwriter.

Write down what you want to get out of your online creative writing course. Get really specific with what you want to achieve, from the emotional to the tangible.

For example:

• Are you a new writer looking for the foundational skills to get started?
• Do you have an established writing hobby and are looking for particular skills to build on your existing expertise?
• Do you just love learning and want to have some fun?
• Are you looking for feedback on your writing?
• Do you want to end up with a finished novel by the end?
• Do you want to feel like you’ve achieved something by the end of the course?
• Do you want to meet other people who are doing what you’re doing?
• Do you have a particular project that you need help with?
• Do you want to make money from writing and publishing?
• Are you a freelance writer who wants to develop better business writing skills?
• Are you a marketing professional who wants to improve your brand storytelling skills?
• Do you want to become proficient in a particular genre (for example: general fiction , crime , memoir , historical fiction , creative non-fiction , poetry , scriptwriting , etc.)

Add as many as occur to you to your list. This will guide you to specific courses that meet your specific needs. Companies will also use language in their marketing and this may resonate with your emotional desires: achievement, satisfaction, community etc.

First, you must define what level you are at. This can be more complex than it at first seems: for example, you may be an intermediate writer of one genre, but new to another.

• No writing experience at all
• Some writing experience, especially professional
• You may have taken a course
• You may have done lots of online research
• You may have self-published your own work
• You may have had a book published or be working on a finished manuscript that is in discussion with publishers
• You may already have an established career with multiple published books.

Add the answer to your list.

NCW Academy offers courses for writers at different stages of their career, for example: Kickstart Your Poetry (Beginner) and Develop Your Poetry (Intermediate) .

Course topic

Have you defined precisely what course you need to do in order achieve what you want?

There may not be a specific course for your exact needs, but start specific and get broader. A fiction writing course might be appropriate for crime writers or sci-fi writers alike, but if you want to write either of the latter, you may find specific courses for you.

Look at your objectives. If you could create your dream course, what would it be called?

• Epic feminist steampunk for beginners
• Young adult period romance
• Vampire novels for Stephen King fans

While there may not be a specific course for these, you will have an idea of what you want (sci-fi, YA, horror respectively) and you will certainly know what you don’t want – which can stop you from picking the wrong course.

For example, we have courses in the following genres:

• General fiction
• Crime fiction
• Screenwriting
• Creative non-fiction
• Romantic fiction

Course format

It is essential that the creative writing course you choose is delivered in a format that suits your situation. Courses come in two main formats, for example:

• Self-paced courses
• Guided courses.

Self-paced courses don’t have a face-to-face or ‘live’ element, though they may contain video lectures or sessions. As the description suggests, self-paced courses allow you to fit the course into your schedule, around work, children or other commitments. Explore examples of self-paced creative writing courses here .

Guided courses are usually led by a tutor and include a ‘real time’ or ‘live’ element such as webinars, seminars and/or workshops. This live element will tend to complement writing exercises and studying that happens in between sessions. For example, our 12-18-week online tutored courses include two weeks of exercises, followed by a feedback and discussion session with the course tutor. Guided courses tend to be in terms or semesters like schools and universities so you may not be able to start/finish with the flexibility of a self-paced course.

Do you have the time and flexibility to attend sessions at a fixed time? What are those fixed times?

Check your objectives. Write down how you want to do your course.

The amount of tutor time relates to the format point above.

Tutor time is frequently what makes a course cost more or less. The business model for many providers (such as Masterclass) is: create assets once and you can sell them a thousand times; all money over your setup costs is all profit. Online courses like this include no live sessions such as webinars, no access to tutors and no 1-2-1 feedback. This may be in line with what you want to achieve and therefore perfect for you.

Some courses have no tutor, they are simply information, guidance and exercises.

Tutored (recorded)

Some courses will include audio/video materials that feature a tutor.

Tutored (no 1-2-1 access)

Many courses include live sessions (for example lectures) but do not offer 1-2-1 access to the tutor.

Tutored (shared access)

There are courses where the tutor will host online sessions with everyone on the course, allowing people to ask questions.

Tutored (1-2-1 access)

Some courses, in addition to writing and exercises, will include 1-2-1 sessions which allow students to discuss their writing for a set period (usually 30-60 minutes).

Many of the tutor courses will include feedback, or the option to pay for specific feedback – usually in the form of a written report. If you have chosen a course with 1-2-1 time you will be able to discuss your written feedback with them.

Check your objectives. How much contact time – and of what type – do you need to ensure you get what you want?

Other formats

It is also worth considering other learning formats, such as mentorship. Look at your objectives, would mentorship suit you better? For example, have you been on web-based courses without tutor feedback and self-published one or more books? Do you need specific guidance on your projects or skills? If so, mentorship may be a better solution. Read more about how mentoring works .

Workshops can also offer a great way to learn. You can explore our workshops here to see what kinds of things on offer.

There are also some fun-looking writers retreats available for those who have the budget to stay at a venue and immerse themselves in courses with tutors and fellow writers.

Course location

This article is about online creative writing courses, but, depending on your objectives, a location-based in-person course may suit you as multiple options exist.

For example, is the course:

• In-the-flesh, location-based
• A combination of the two.

By choosing an online course you are widening your choices significantly. Even if you live in a big city, there is a larger choice of online courses – and this has been accelerated by the COVID pandemic, when demand for everything to be available online exploded.

However, you may still prefer a location-based course if your objective is to meet people or even ‘get me out of the house’.

If you do decide to take a location-based course, check how long it will take you to get to as this may influence your decision.

Add your preference to your list.

Course ‘home’

Where is the course based? This is important because it is easy to end up signing up for a course in another country (that speaks the same language). For example, if you are in the UK, you may not want to take a US-based course. Again, this will be guided by your objectives. For example: you might be a UK writer wanting to break into the US market or a US expat in the UK looking to study a US course. While the differences in language, style and a nation’s publishing industries may be small, they may be meaningful depending on your needs.

Conversely, the course’s home might not be relevant to your objectives. For example, a screenwriting or poetry course might be internationally universal.

Who created the course?

The online learning industry has exploded in recent years. But not all courses are created equal. Great writers may not be great teachers. And not all course vendors will have access to high-level expertise with which to build a great creative writing course.

As such it is important to see who created the course and how it’s delivered, for example many published writers offer courses but may lack the didactic skills and technology to deliver a course which truly helps different types of student get what they need to improve. Similarly, there are e-learning businesses who do not specialise in or understand creative writing or the publishing industry, and have invited an inappropriate person to create the course.

When researching courses, ensure that the provider matches the level of expertise you need and that they are credible in the area you need. For example, don’t take a poetry course from a crime writer.

To ensure students get a valuable and enjoyable learning experience, National Centre for Writing worked with the University of East Anglia’s School of Literature, Drama and Creative Writing to build our online tutored courses . This delivers the expertise of both teaching and writing – and at the highest level.

This relates to the above point: you need to ensure that the tutor has the expertise you need, and that they are a good educator.

Is the tutor authoritative in the area you need? We italicise this as there are lots of talented writers, but they may not have the specific expertise you need, so ensure that the tutor has relevant expertise. How can you know this? Most course providers will have a section on tutor with a biography that includes what they’ve written and/or their academic credentials. You may decide that academic credentials are more likely to yield better learning that a celebrity writer with published works under their belt. Again this will depend on your objectives – a university lecturer may know less about the cut and  thrust of getting published than a published author, while a published author may have no idea how to teach, coach or mentor.

Generally, the more of a beginner you are, the more you should favour academia over publishing: a teacher will know how to support beginners, while a published writer may have valuable insights for more experienced writers.

If you want a course which includes tutor interaction you might also consider chemistry: do you think you will get on well with the tutor. Of course it’s unlikely that you’ll have the opportunity to meet the tutor(s) ahead of time, but the course provider may have audio, video or blogs with the tutor so you can decide whether you’re likely to get on with them. Are they friendly, down-to-earth, domineering, opinionated, supportive etc.?

There are many aspects of time that are important to consider when choosing an online course. This relates to the ability of a course to deliver what you want as well as its relative value.

• What is the course duration? For example, is it a one, two or three-month course?
• How much time will it take to complete the various elements of the course? For example, are there two hours of exercises to complete each week?
• How much tutor time (if relevant) do you get? For example, a one-hour lecture each fortnight; a one-hour lecture and 30-minutes of 1-2-1 time
• How many hours of video/audio tutelage is there?

As you research courses, make a note not only of the course duration, but of the total time you need to complete it, as well as the amount of contact time you will have with tutors. This will help ensure:

• You will get what you want from the course
• It is good value.

Cost, value and your budget

It is hard to compare course value across different providers as there is no uniformity of products. For example, a 12-week course from one provider might include 12 hours of exercises, while a 6-week course from another might include 24 hours of exercises.

Refer to the Time section above to work out exactly what you get for your money.

While time is a key consideration when it comes to the value of your creative writing course, for example quality. Lots of poor-quality assets or more time with a lower-quality tutor may not be as valuable as a smaller amount of time with better assets/tutors. Similarly, don’t choose a cheaper course if it’s less relevant than a more relevant, more expensive one. For example, you may be better off choosing a crime writing course than a generic fiction one if that’s your objective.

Bestselling US epic fantasy author Brandon Sanderson runs a writing course at Brigham Young University, Utah that focuses on fantasy and science fiction. Many of his lectures are available for free on YouTube, but this isn’t good value if you want to learn how to write crime fiction.

Create a shortlist of courses that look relevant first, then assess which is the best value. Include quality, expertise level, total time and access in your assessment.

Course output

Is there something in particular you want to create on the course?

This is worth noting as some courses specify that you will write a complete short story or even a whole novel.

Credibility

How do you know if a creative writing course will be any good? Even before a time of internet scams, there were fly-by-night businesses promising the world and delivering Hell. As such it is important that the course provider is reputable. While recognisable brands can be a safer bet, there may be great providers you haven’t heard of.

While researching online creative writing courses, look out for:

• Tutors with academic/commercial credentials – including university links (for example, our online tutored courses have been created in partnership with the University of East Anglia). Research the tutor on YouTube or they might have done podcasts (as many of our tutors have).
• Providers with links to publishing (for example book publishers and not-for-profits such as National Centre for Writing)
• Reviews around the web (including Google reviews)
• Testimonials and case studies on the website from people who have taken the course
• Well-established, longstanding and trusted brands.

Other things to consider

• Some providers of creative writing courses offer access to online communities to help students stay in touch and deliver peer support
• Many providers use off-the-shelf online teaching platforms and some will be better than others. Find out which platform a provider uses and research whether people like it or not. For example, Obby, Teachable, Thinkific and Baluu are four examples of good quality platforms.

It is also important that the provider helps you to use the platform, for example, this is the video guide to our platform, Teachable.

How is your list coming on? Hopefully you have built a picture of:

• Who you are and what you want to achieve
• The topic and format of the course you need – from length to amount and types of tutor time
• How to check that a provider will deliver high-quality tutors and assets.

While you’re hear, why not check out our courses, workshops and mentoring .

You may also like...

Advice for emerging writers with Benjamin Johncock & Megan Bradbury

In this episode of The Writing Life, novelists Benjamin Johncock and Megan Bradbury share their advice for writers.

26th August 2024

The art of writing poetry: A journey into creative expression

Why write poetry? Writing poetry doesn’t need to be a daunting prospect. NCW Academy has a range of courses to help you become a better poet.

22nd August 2024

Writing the ‘difficult second novel’ with Melissa Fu

In this episode of The Writing Life, novelist and NCW Academy tutor Melissa Fu discusses the difficult task of writing your second novel or project.

12th August 2024

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages. It also uses Facebook Pixel to help us recommend events to our audiences.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

Help Centre

• Introductory and general creative writing courses

Creative Writing Courses Online & in London

Learn from published authors in a relaxed and safe environment!

Fancy trying your hand at creative writing? Or are you looking to take your passion for writing to the next level? Find your inspiration to write at the college where Andrea Levy, Malorie Blackman, Anna Burns, and other celebrated authors studied.

Learn the art of creative writing from published writers in a range of courses designed to support and encourage your creativity. You'll explore your own potential, discover a range of literary forms and techniques, and develop your writing skills. Our courses will help you grow your confidence and passion for writing, while motivating you to achieve your personal goals.

Workshops available both online and in-person

To help you fit your studies around your busy life, you have the freedom to either learn online in the comfort of your own home, or in a classroom setting from our Central London location. Whatever your preference, you'll be able to meet fellow learners, interact, share, and learn in a way that motivates and inspires you. For more information about our live online courses, please see our  guide to online learning .

Choosing a level that's right for you – beginner to advanced level

Whether you're completely new to creative writing, have some previous experience, or you're writing at the professional level, we have courses that can support your needs. Our goal is to provide a supportive space in which you feel empowered to experiment, express your ideas, and challenge yourself to write creatively to a level that feels right for you.

Find your voice and nurture your creativity

On our courses, you'll receive guidance on how to give and receive constructive feedback on written work, and learn how to use that feedback to improve your writing. You'll share ideas and sharpen your critical thinking skills through close analysis of peer and published work, as well as growing your vocabulary, your communication skills, and your knowledge of the mechanics of writing.

For the latest news, courses, events and competitions, stay in touch with the Department on  Facebook  and  Twitter .

• Introductory and general creative writing courses 21 courses
• Reading for writers 1 course
• Beginners 20 items
• Some experience 16 items
• Advanced 12 items
• Suitable for all 12 items
• Keeley Street 10 items
• Online 16 items
• Sep 2024 9 items
• Oct 2024 5 items
• Nov 2024 2 items
• Dec 2024 2 items
• Jan 2025 5 items
• Feb 2025 3 items
• Mar 2025 2 items
• Apr 2025 7 items
• May 2025 7 items
• Jun 2025 8 items
• Jul 2025 5 items
• Aug 2025 2 items
• Mon 6 items
• Tue 7 items
• Tue+Thu 1 item
• Wed 5 items
• Wed+Fri 1 item
• Thu 5 items
• Fri 3 items
• Sat 7 items
• Sat-Sun 1 item
• Sun 8 items
• Weekday 11 items
• Weekend 14 items
• Daytime 17 items
• Evening 10 items
• £0.00 - £50.00 2 items
• £50.00 - £100.00 10 items
• £100.00 - £150.00 6 items
• £150.00 - £200.00 1 item
• £200.00 - £250.00 2 items
• 1 to 4 weeks 5 items
• 11 weeks or longer 4 items
• 5-10 weeks 5 items
• One-off only 10 items

Items 1 - 15 of 21

• You're currently reading page 1
• Page Proceed to payment

Location on this date:   Online

Location on this date:   Keeley Street

Can't see a course you want?

Add this category to your waiting list to set up alerts and we will update you when new courses are released online.

Manuscript Assessment

• Success Stories
• Reading Room
• Novel Writing
• Fiction Development
• Non-Fiction
• Writing for Children
• Short Story

Starting Out

• How’s My Driving
• An honest assessment of your work-in-progress, with advice to help you with the rest of the draft.
• Full Report
• Our most comprehensive report – a full MOT on your manuscript.
• Submission Review
• Ready to send your novel out into the world? Have your submission documents reviewed to make sure everything's in the best possible shape to impress an agent.
• Magazine Submission Review
• Ready to submit your poems to magazines, journals or websites? Get feedback on a selection of four to six of them to check you're on the right track.
• Pamphlet Review
• Designed for poets preparing a pamphlet for possible publication, this report will offer constructive feedback on a group of up to twenty poems.
• Collection Review
• Put your poems through their paces with an in-depth evaluation of your entire collection.
• Creative Writing Exercises
• Writing Competitions

The last page you viewed...

• by location
• Can't find the right course? Book a professional reader's report on your manuscript.

• Writing a Novel
• Our flagship course is available in London, Newcastle and online – spend six months working on your novel with help from experienced tutors and industry experts.
• Prose Assessment
• Poetry Assessment

• Q&As with our tutors and alumni, reading lists and deep dives into all aspects of creative writing – and lots more.

• Whether you're stuck on dialogue, plot, character or something else, we've got a whole range of exercises to help and inspire you.

• Here you'll find all of our past, ongoing and upcoming writing competitions, plus details of any others we think you should know about.

• How to Write a Novel
• If you’ve always dreamed of writing a novel but are overwhelmed and unsure of where to start, here are some key things to think about along your writing journey.

Creative Writing Courses

Our creative writing courses are run by award-winning authors and industry experts from Faber and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced writer taking the next step in your career, we offer the support and structure you need to achieve your writing goals.

Our creative writing courses: an overview

From one-day introductory workshops, to six-month advanced courses, Faber Academy offers a full range of creative writing courses for writers at every stage of their journey.

With options to study in-person at Faber's HQ in Hatton Garden, Newcastle, or online via our bespoke online classroom, writers can choose from classes in fiction, non-fiction or poetry with experienced and passionate tutors.

• Popular Categories Novel Writing Fiction Development Non-fiction Poetry Crime Writing for Children Short Story Reading Life Writing: Reading Course
• Level Starting out Improving Advanced
• Location Online London Newcastle
• Length 1-5 days 12 weeks 6 month +
• Featured Featured Upcoming Lowest Price A-Z Z-A

Popular Categories

Our advanced courses in fiction and poetry offer the next step for the committed writer – serious writing time, industry advice and expert guidance, along with a close-knit group of fellow writers to keep you on track.

Writing a Novel (Online)

What do these levels mean?

Sarah May, Jessica Moor

Monday 30 Sep 2024

Application Deadline

Monday 16 Sep 2024

Writing a Novel (Evening)

Richard T. Kelly, Sarah May, Joanna Briscoe, Diana Evans, Sophie Mackintosh, Claire Daverley

Wednesday 02 Oct 2024

Sunday 15 Sep 2024

Places available

Writing a Novel (Daytime)

Shelley Weiner, Sabrina Broadbent, Nikesh Shukla, Sophie Mackintosh, Nicola Dinan, Leone Ross

Thursday 03 Oct 2024

An Introduction to Writing a Novel (Newcastle)

Richard T. Kelly

Saturday 07 Sep 2024

An Introduction to Writing Poems (Newcastle)

Pippa Little, John Challis

Start Your Memoir

Patti Miller

Monday 09 Sep 2024

Last few places available

Life Writing: A Faber Academy Reading Course

Richard Skinner

Writing Fiction

Wednesday 18 Sep 2024

Getting Started: Beginners' Fiction

Mick Jackson

Thursday 19 Sep 2024

Penny Joelson

Monday 23 Sep 2024

Can’t find the right course?

Get comprehensive editorial feedback on your manuscript from our experienced readers – whether it’s still a work-in-progress or you’re preparing to submit to literary agents.

We offer a range of mentoring options if you’d prefer to work one-on-one with an established writer to help you shape your project and realise your writing ambitions.

We use cookies to personalise your experience. By continuing to visit this website you agree to our use of cookies.

Course Level Guide

There’s something for everyone at the Faber Academy, whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned writer or somewhere in between. To help you select the right course for you, this guide breaks down what the different levels mean.

These courses are ideal for those who are curious about writing and have little to no prior experience in the field. There are no pre-requisite for these courses – all we ask is that you come with an open mind and a keenness to learn. That’s not to say they aren’t suitable for someone with more experience, though – if you’re looking to refresh your skills or experiment with a new area of writing, you’re also welcome to enrol.

These courses are ideal for those who have some experience in writing – as a hobby, or perhaps through academic or professional work – and are looking for challenging courses to hone their skills further. These courses are also a good next step if you’ve already taken a beginners’ class but don’t feel ready to commit to an advanced course yet.

These courses are ideal for seasoned writers who are serious about getting published. Entry to most of these courses is on an application basis and writers will usually be asked to submit samples of their work-in-progress or a past project.

• Institute of Continuing Education (ICE)

Please go to students and applicants to login

• Course search
• Courses by subject overview
• Archaeology, Landscape History and Classics
• Biological Sciences
• Business and Entrepreneurship
• Creative Writing and English Literature
• Education Studies and Teaching
• Engineering and Technology
• History overview
• Holocaust Studies
• International Relations and Global Studies
• Leadership and Coaching overview
• Coaching FAQs
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Philosophy, Ethics and Religion
• History of Art and Visual Culture
• Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas overview
• Postgraduate Certificates & Diplomas overview
• Applying for a Master of Studies (MSt) or Postgraduate programme
• Part-time Master's Degrees overview
• What is a Master's Degree (MSt)?
• Apprenticeships
• Online Courses
• Career Accelerators overview
• Career Accelerators
• Weekend Courses overview

Student stories

• Booking terms and conditions
• International Summer Programme overview
• Accommodation overview
• Newnham College
• Queens' College
• Selwyn College
• St Catharine's College
• Evaluation and academic credit
• Language requirements
• Visa guidance
• Make a Donation
• Register your interest
• Creative Writing Retreats
• Gift vouchers for courses overview
• Terms and conditions
• Financial Support overview
• Concessions
• External Funding
• Ways to Pay
• Information for Students overview
• Student login and resources
• Earn your digital badge with Accredible
• Events overview
• Open Days/Weeks overview
• Master's Open Week 2023
• Postgraduate Open Day 2024
• STEM Open Week 2024
• MSt in English Language Assessment Open Session
• Undergraduate Open Day 2024
• Lectures and Talks
• Cultural events
• In Your Own Words: Open Mic
• In Conversation with...
• International Events
• About Us overview
• Our Mission
• Our anniversary
• Academic staff
• Administrative staff
• Student stories overview
• Advanced Diploma
• Archaeology and Landscape History
• Architecture
• Classical Studies
• Creative Writing
• English Literature
• Leadership and Coaching
• Online courses
• Politics and International Studies
• Visual Culture
• Tell us your student story!
• News overview
• Madingley Hall overview
• Make a donation
• Digital Credentials
• Centre for Creative Writing overview
• Creative Writing Mentoring
• BBC Short Story Awards
• Latest News
• How to find us
• The Director's Welcome

University of Cambridge Centre for Creative Writing

• Staff profiles
• Madingley Hall

Who are we? 

We are the University of Cambridge Centre for Creative Writing, based within the Institute of Continuing Education.

We believe in the power of writing and reading to change lives and bring people together both locally and around the world.

Collaboration and partnership are at the heart of what we do. If you'd like to join us in building this exciting new phase in the development of the centre, please get in touch by filling out the form below.

Studying at ICE

Our courses are open to everyone and are designed for part-time study at our beautiful home of Madingley Hall, just outside Cambridge.

We welcome students from all backgrounds and levels of experience. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or an experienced writer, there will be something for you.

Our courses

Contact us  

Contact the centre for creative writing.

If other, please specify

Contact Information

Tweets by litandcw_ice

Institute of Continuing Education Madingley Hall Madingley Cambridge CB23 8AQ

Find us Contact us

Useful information

• Jobs and other opportunities
• Gift vouchers
• Student policies
• Privacy policy
• Data protection policy
• General terms and conditions

Connect with us

© 2024 University of Cambridge

• University A-Z
• Contact the University
• Accessibility
• Freedom of information

Study at Cambridge

• Undergraduate
• Postgraduate
• International students
• Continuing education
• Executive and professional education
• Courses in education

About the University

• How the University and Colleges work
• Visiting the University
• Giving to Cambridge

Research at Cambridge

• Spotlight on...
• About research at Cambridge

Creative writing courses

Short and part-time courses with Oxford University

Need an extra push to finish your novel, poem or play? Want to explore new genres? Whether you're a beginner wondering where to start, or an experienced writer looking to extend your craft, we have a course for you.

Short courses

• Part-time undergraduate and postgraduate study

Summer schools in Oxford

Our  short courses in creative writing  include in person and online live-time weekly classes, day and weekend schools and flexible online courses.

Courses cover all genres: fiction, poetry, memoir, creative nonfiction, drama, writing for young adults and critical reading. There are courses for beginners and options for those with experience. Class sizes are kept small to maximise interaction between you, your classmates and your tutor.

Credit earned from some of our short courses is transferable towards our  Certificate of Higher Education  – a part-time undergraduate course in which you study a main subject discipline, such as creative writing, but also undertake study in other subjects to broaden your knowledge and skills.

• View all short courses in creative writing
• Ways to study: how our short courses work

Part-time Oxford University qualifications

From undergraduate level to advanced postgraduate study.

Certificate of Higher Education in Creative Writing

The  Certificate of Higher Education  is a flexible, part-time programme which lets you study a main subject discipline (such as creative writing) while also undertaking study in other academic subjects. Ideal for lifelong learners, you can study what you want, when you want, how you want. The credits you obtain from taking short online courses, weekly classes and attendance at the Oxford University Summer School for Adults all count towards your final award.

• Certificate of Higher Education
• Undergraduate Diploma in Creative Writing

The  Diploma in Creative Writing  is a two-year part-time course that helps you to strengthen your ability in four major areas of literary activity — prose, poetry, drama and analytical reading — while letting you specialise in the genre of your choice. Choose from two study options: regular in-person meetings in Oxford or mostly online with a summer school in Oxford.

• MSt in Creative Writing

Delve deeper with our a two-year, part-time master's programme offering a unique combination of high contact hours, genre specialisation, and critical and creative breadth. Delivered in a clustered learning format of five residences, two guided retreats and one placement over two years.

Join us for one of our Oxford  creative writing summer courses , and spend a week or longer immersed in your craft. Accredited and non-accredited options are available and courses take place either at Rewley House or at one of the University's historic colleges.

• Creative writing summer courses

Upcoming courses

Advanced writing lives (online).

• Mon 09 Sep 2024 – 22 Nov 2024

Fiction by Victorian Women: George Eliot, Elizabeth Gaskell (Online)

Critical reading (online).

• Wed 11 Sep 2024 – 22 Nov 2024

Getting Started in Creative Writing (Online)

Literary theory: an introduction (online), student spotlights.

Discover how our students have developed their creative writing skills thanks to completing a course at the Department.

Sarah Easter Collins

Charles bush, tahmina maula, daisy johnson.

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

Creative Writing Courses in UK

• Updated on  
• Jan 28, 2022

There is a whole universe of creative writing outside of corporate writing and hard journalism. Whether you’re a first-time writer, a non-fiction writer wishing to branch out or a casual creative writer hoping to become a published author, refining your creative writing talents is essential to your success. Great skills in creative writing can ensure great success in your writing career , especially in countries like the UK, where the demand for creative writers is rapidly growing. In this blog, we will discuss some of the best creative writing courses in the UK so keep reading!

This Blog Includes:

Why study in the uk, what is creative writing, character development, unique plot, visual description, underlying theme, imaginative language, eligibility for creative writing courses in uk, the university of oxford, the university of cambridge, the university of st. andrews, university college, london, durham university, the university of birmingham, brunel university, london, the university of kent, the university of warwick, career prospectus, application process, documents required .

• Universities in the United Kingdom are amongst the best in the world. British universities, which are routinely featured in worldwide rankings, conduct some of the world’s most highly respected research. 
• You will be able to flourish in a very multicultural environment while studying and living in the UK , with great potential of pursuing rewarding professions following graduation.
• The education system in UK universities is all about inclusion, class discussions and creative activities, teaching in the United Kingdom is aimed to stimulate fresh idea production, individual investigation, and group interaction. 
• Studying creative writing courses in the UK is a great choice as the country is home to some of the best literary works and classical writers like the Bronte sisters, Jane Austen, Geroge Orwell, Mark Twain, Charles Dickens and William Shakespeare!   

Before we get into the best universities and creative writing courses in the UK, you must understand what is creative writing? Creative writing is a type of writing in which imagination, creativity, and originality are used to tell a story through strong written pictures with an emotional impact, such as in poetry, short story writing, novel writing, and other forms of writing. Different types of writing often leave the reader with facts and information rather than emotional curiosity; however creative writing employs senses and emotions to build a vivid vision in the reader’s mind.

Elements of Creative Writing

To improve your creative writing skills and explore new creative writing topics , you must first comprehend the elements that make a novel outstanding. Here are the components that make up creative writing and why they’re all equally crucial.

To write creatively, you’ll need characters. So, while choosing the second person point of view can be a unique way to write a book, you must first develop the character to deliver the story. Character development is the process of discovering who a character is and how they change throughout the course of a novel. Your readers should be able to fully comprehend your major characters and their trajectories.

The fact that creative writing usually includes a storyline of some sort – and a unique one – is what sets it apart from other genres of writing. Remakes are considered creative writing as well, though most creative writers develop their own plots based on their own unique ideas. There is no story if there isn’t a plot. And if you don’t have a story, you’re just writing facts on paper.

You don’t typically read paragraphs of details describing the surrounding locations of where the events took place in a newspaper. Visual descriptions are often designated for use in creative writing. You’ll need them to assist the reader grasp what the characters’ surroundings are like and form attachments.

Almost every narrative contains an underlying theme or message, even if the author didn’t intend for it to be there. However, in order for creative writing to be complete, it must have a subject or meaning. That’s one of the things that makes this type of work so appealing. You can also teach lessons by telling a narrative.

The way you choose to craft the vision in your imagination is part of what makes creative writing well so creative. To construct a vivid image in the reader’s mind, creative writing uses myths, tales, metaphors, similes, figures of speech, and other parallels.

While some of the colleges might have different requirements for admission in the UK , most of the colleges ask for the following requirement(s).

• The International Baccalaureate typically requires a minimum of 37 points.
• A-level requirements are typical as follows: English Literature, or English Language and Literature, is included in the AAA.
• Typical IELTS requirements: 7.0 overall, with a minimum writing score of 7.0 and reading, speaking and listening score of no less than 6.5.
• Admission to a university Post-graduation requirements: A second-class student. Bachelor’s degree with honours.

Best Universities for Creative Writing Courses in UK

Below we have listed some of the best Universities and their creative writing courses in UK:

The University of Oxford is also on the list when discussing some of the best creative writing courses in UK. Here, the course focuses on cross-cultural and cross-genre issues, highlighting the requirements and challenges of today’s writer who creates work in the context of worldwide writers and the critical community. Over the course of two years, the MSt offers a clustered learning structure consisting of five residences, two guided retreats, and one research placement.

Course Name:  MSt in Creative Writing Fees: £11,466 (Approx. INR 10 Lacs)

The University of Cambridge offers a Master of Studies (MSt) in Creative Writing is for those who want to improve their creative writing talents in both fiction and non-fiction pieces of literature. The MSt is taught in short, intensive study blocks over the course of two years. It was created with full-time and part-time employees, as well as overseas students, in mind.

Course Name: Master of Studies in Creative Writing Fees: £13,098 (Approx. INR 11.5 Lacs)

The University of St. Andrews comes first when we discuss some of the best creative writing courses in UK. In either poetry or prose, the MLitt in Creative Writing produces original work while giving analytical and creative study. The MLitt program focuses on the development of individual style and the pursuit of literary greatness through practice-based, technically, and creatively driven instruction from outstanding contemporary authors.

Course Name : Postgraduate, leading to a Master of Letters (MLitt) Fees : £20,370 (Approx. INR 18 Lacs)

This course offered by University College London will introduce students to some of the most fascinating and challenging works produced in English by writers from all over the world between 1900 and today, as well as key artistic achievements in film, music, and popular culture. It gives context to these works by relating them to historical, social, philosophical, and technological developments of the time.

Course Name : MA English Fees: £25,800 (Approx. INR 22 Lacs)

Durham University ‘s MA in Creative Writing is an interesting new program. This is a challenging academic program that will help you gain practical experience composing poetry and prose fiction. In order to develop their own ideas, you will receive structured support through writing workshops and one-on-one lessons.

Course Name: MA in Creative Writing Fees: £20,750 (Approx. INR 18 Lacs)

The University of Birmingham offers an intensive course in creative writing with focus workshop time and opportunities to provide and receive feedback from your peers. The program will allow you to develop your own work, voice, and ideas. Professional skills training will also be provided to prepare you for your interactions with the writing industry, including insights from industry professionals such as editors and publishers.

Course Name:  MA in Creative Writing Fees: £20,160 (Approx. INR 18 Lacs)

This BA in Creative Writing at Brunel University is designed to encourage high levels of creativity, initiative, and originality in the conception, production, interpretation, and analysis of creative writing, as well as the opportunity to work on multidisciplinary projects. Some of the most accomplished and innovative writers working today will teach students the key genres of creative writing.

Course Name:  BA (Creative Writing) Fees: £16, 335 (Approx. INR 14.5 Lacs)

The University of Kent is also a great option. The school’s most practice-based research is concentrated on the Centre for Creative Writing. Staff put on a thriving series of events and conduct a research session for postgraduate students and staff to discuss fiction writing. Established authors are invited to read and discuss their work on a regular basis.

Course Name:  MA (Creative Writing) Fees: £16, 800 (Approx. INR 15 Lacs)

The University of Warwick is the last on our list of universities offering creative writing courses in UK. This degree’s main goal is to help you become a better reader and writer, but it’s also useful if you want to work as an author – or in the creative sectors, such as media, advertising, publishing, or teaching. Major literary agents take an active interest in Warwick and make presentations there every year.

Course Name: MA (Writing) Fees: £11, 170 (Approx. INR 10 Lacs)

The determination, hard effort, and perseverance of creative writers determine their success. Professionalism, high-quality literary work, and continual progress in your writing talents can all help you get to the top in your sector. Career options include:

Applications to universities in the UK for creative writing courses are submitted via the UCAS portal. Here’s the step-wise application process:

• Visit the UCAS portal
• Check the course curriculum and the eligibility requirements
• Click on the application form of the respective university
• First, you need to create an account using your mobile number or email address
• You will receive an email or SMS on your registered contact number with login details and verification
• Use the login details provided and enter your personal details ( name, gender, date of birth)
• Enter your academic qualification and upload the required documents
• Select the course and pay the application fee
• The application fee is different for every university and can be paid through a debit/credit card or internet banking
• Submit your application form, you can also track your application form through your account
• Students that have been selected will be required to attend a virtual interview by some universities
• Official academic transcripts
• Scanned copy of passport
• Letter of Recommendation
• English language proficiency test scores
• Statement of Purpose
• Two Reference Letters

The University of Oxford, Brunel University, London are some of the best universities for creative writing courses in the UK.

Oxford University offers a Master of Studies in Creative Writing which is a two-year course.

You can study journalism, English literature or communications. Check out our blog on How to Become a Writer?

In this blog, we learned the basics of Creative Writing and some of the best creative writing courses in the UK. Confused about the right course to pursue and the best-fit university in the United Kingdom? Then, allow our innovative AI Course Finder to help you solve your problem. Connect with Leverage Edu experts and they can provide you with a free consultation to address all of your questions. So make an appointment for a free consultation today!

Sonal is a creative, enthusiastic writer and editor who has worked extensively for the Study Abroad domain. She splits her time between shooting fun insta reels and learning new tools for content marketing. If she is missing from her desk, you can find her with a group of people cracking silly jokes or petting neighbourhood dogs.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

September 2024

January 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

CHOOSE ONE OR MORE

Popular universities.

• University of Kent

University of East Anglia UEA

• University of Chester
• Coventry University
• University of Aberdeen
• University of Portmouth
• Nottingham Trent University
• University of Sunderland
• London Metropolitan University
• London South Bank University
• University of East London
• BROWSE ALL UNIVERSITIES

Course search

Popular undergraduate courses.

• Computer Science
• LLB Bachelor of Laws
• Biomedical Sciences
• Physiotherapy
• Sports Science

Open days search

Upcoming open days.

• Ulster University
• Health Sciences University (formerly AECC University College)
• Teesside University, Middlesbrough
• University of Portsmouth

University of Surrey

Article search, popular topics.

• Clearing advice for students
• Clearing advice for parents
• Clearing advice for teachers
• League tables
• Getting ready for uni

Popular articles

• What is UCAS Extra?
• Applying directly into Clearing
• Clearing success stories
• What's a university open day
• How university rankings can help you through Clearing
• BROWSE ALL ADVICE

You are looking at:

Courses starting in 2025

Looking for Clearing courses?

Results for Undergraduate Creative writing Courses

93 universities offer 346 undergraduate courses

Add your grades

Find courses that match your qualifications.

• University League Table: highest first
• Subject League Table: highest first
• UCAS points: highest first
• UCAS points: lowest first

Loughborough University

UCAS points

University League Table

104 - 136 UCAS points

University of Warwick

Creative Writing League Table

144 - 144 UCAS points

Lancaster University

136 - 136 UCAS points

120 - 152 UCAS points

University of Birmingham

University of Exeter

136 - 153 UCAS points

University of York

University of Southampton

132 - 144 UCAS points

136 - 165 UCAS points

128 - 153 UCAS points

University of Manchester

Studying Creative Writing

Search through undergraduate Communication and Media degree courses to see what’s available from UK universities. Each page should give you an insight into what the course might be like, along with information on entry requirements, UCAS points and university league table performance.A degree in Communication and Media will give you the knowledge and skills required for a career in the media industry. Courses have an interdisciplinary approach where you think critically about the press, film, broadcasting, digital media, advertising and other areas. You’ll learn how to be flexible, adaptable and critical, and potentially gain valuable experience through industry work placements.

Filter by qualification

• Bachelors Degree
• Foundation Degree

Filter by region

• East Midlands
• East of England
• North East England
• North West England
• Northern Ireland
• South East England
• South West England
• West Midlands
• Yorkshire and the Humber

Filter by city

• Loughborough
• Southampton

Filter by subject

• Film Studies
• Computer Graphics
• Communication Studies
• Film and Television
• Creative Writing
• Media Studies
• Photography
• Film / Video Production
• Visual Communication
• Broadcasting Studies
• Film Special Effects
• Television Studies
• Television Production
• Multimedia Computing
• Photographic Techniques
• Play Writing
• Film/TV Makeup

Course type

Qualification, your ucas points 0.

Online Writing Courses

Your story starts here

Courses for all experience levels

Self-paced, no deadlines

One-off purchase, lifetime access

Share Share this page

Learn from the greatest writers, ken follett.

Write fiction that sells

Carol Ann Duffy

Find your poetic voice

Lee Child

Make a career out of writing novels.

Alan Moore

Write magical fiction and equip yourself for a writing career.

Julia Donaldson

Learn from the bestselling author of The Gruffalo.

Jed Mercurio

Create your own incredible TV series.

Malorie Blackman

Write and publish Young Adult fiction with the celebrated author of over 70 books.

Taking an online writing course can help you sharpen your writing skills, whether you’re just starting out or have been dabbling in writing for years. 

Learning to write from the comfort of your own home gives you the time and space to adapt your story ideas at your own pace. From novel writing to screenwriting, writing for children or literary fiction, there’s an online writing course for everyone. So pick up that pen, fire up your laptop, and get ready to write that bestseller.

Learn to write

Writing is a craft. While some writers are born with an innate natural ability to weave together plot, setting and character into a story, even the most established writers can benefit from brushing up on their craft once in a while. 

Through a creative writing course you can learn how to create compelling, believable characters that your readers will grow to love. You’ll learn how to depict settings and evoke a sense of place for your story. Plus you’ll learn the importance of plot and how to keep a sense of pace in your storytelling.

Learning to write fiction online can boost your confidence and finally empower you to commit that brilliant novel idea to paper.

What you can learn

Our online writing courses cover a range of topics. Each course is designed to teach you the basics of storytelling and will help you to:

• Find inspiration for story ideas
• Identify themes for your writing
• Write for a specific genre
• Plot out your story structure
• Develop authentic characters
• Create the setting and evoke a sense of place
• Write convincing dialogue
• Find your own writer’s voice
• Deal with writer’s block
• Adopt a writing habit

As well as learning the craft of writing, our courses offer a glimpse into the processes and methods used by some of the world’s most successful authors. 

Learn to write with Lee Child

Discover the tools to write - and the secrets to getting published - with one of the world's most successful authors.

Explore our online creative writing courses

At BBC Maestro we offer a range of online writing classes from some of the world’s best writers. 

Learn how to write children’s books with the author of The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson . Or take tips from bestselling children’s author David Walliams . Find out how to craft timeless children’s stories and create characters that kids (and their parents!) will never forget.

Acclaimed novelist, Malorie Blackman , shares all her writing tips and tricks in her course. This comprehensive course covers the writing process, structuring your story and how to write convincing dialogue.

Master storyteller, Alan Moore , takes you on a wild and enchanting ride through his creative process. From inventive language and world-building, to crafting unforgettable characters, you'll learn all the tools you need to become a maestro of the written word.

Or if you prefer to write for the screen, Line of Duty creator Jed Mercurio teaches a masterclass in screenwriting . In his course you can learn everything from creating a TV pilot to techniques to build tension and suspense.

Ready to learn how to write like a professional? Sign up for an online writing course and kick start your writing journey today.

Want to learn it all?

You can buy a single course, or you can access every course for one annual fee with a BBC Maestro subscription.

From creative cuisine to powerful prose, get ready to learn something new today.

• Creative writing

Note: This website works best with Javascript enabled. With Javascript disabled some parts of the website may not work as expected.

Tell your story with the WEA

Whether you are just starting out as a budding writer, or already have lots of experience expressing yourself through writing, our creative writing courses will provide you with a platform to develop your talent. All our creative writing courses look at different audiences and genres such as scriptwriting, non-fiction and poetry. 

Skip to courses

You can choose to tap into your storytelling abilities alongside other creative writers in a fun and supportive environment, telling your story through your very own writing style. You’ll have the opportunity to explore what it is that you want to write about as well as time to investigate how to find your own voice and the style that you want to write in. 

Our poetry courses immerse you in the works of famous poets and literary greats, exploring the techniques they use and their famous pieces of work. All this acts as the perfect inspiration for when you craft your own style. This learning style means you build the core foundations to progress further, becoming a better writer in the process. 

A creative writing class near you 

Whether you prefer online creative classes or learning face to face in a venue, we have something for everyone to choose from. Our learning experience is one of the things that sets us apart, with many of our learners going on to achieve incredible things.  

The support you’ll receive on your creative writing course 

You'll get support from your tutor whichever option you choose, as well as the opportunity to build a network of peers who have a passion for creative writing just like you.  

Please enter your postcode

In order for us to give you accurate results for your courses, please click on the Search options and enter your postcode and the mile radius for your search.

Refine search

How you'll learn

Your location

Please enter your postcode or town for your search in the boxes below.

We have defaulted the search to ten miles, but you can change this number in the box as you wish.

Sort by start date

Choose to sort the course start date in ascending order (furthest away dates first) or descending (most recent dates first)

Results per page

Other Filters

Creative Writing: Read Like a Writer

Course information, creative writing: creative writing workshop, creative writing: how to write contemporary poems, creative writing weekend bootcamp: essentials of story, wea membership.

For just £15 a year, you can:

• Join our popular, award-winning weekly lecture series,
• Access an archive of over 100 past lectures,
• Get priority online and phone booking for autumn courses (England only),
• Receive our Highway magazine and access back issues,
• Attend our members’ annual conference.

Just add us to your basket to sign up today!

Membership Information

Creative writing: return of the writers roulette workshops, creative writing: take a picture, tell its story, creative writing: creating and developing characters, creative writing for beginners, creative writing: creative writing inspired by the 7 different plots, creative writing: creating characters.

• Learner Hub login
• Members/Volunteers Login
• Community interpreting
• Digital skills
• Education & childcare
• English functional skills
• Health & social care
• Maths functional skills
• Personal development
• Self-employment
• Volunteering
• Other sectors
• Budgeting & numbers
• Communication skills
• Cookery & baking
• Courses for carers
• Health & wellbeing
• Self-development
• Performing arts
• Photography
• Textiles & sewing
• Art history
• Environment & gardening
• Why learn with us?
• Branches & other learning networks
• Inspiring stories
• Share your WEA story
• Learner handbook
• Future careers
• Our staff team
• Our trustees
• Our funders
• WEA Scotland
• WEA governance
• Community Grants
• Developing employees
• Supporting wellbeing
• Social prescribing
• Unemployed support
• Supporting refugees
• Trade unions
• Developing communities
• Support for the disabled
• Independent living
• Rehabilitation support
• Existing partners
• Why work for us?
• Search vacancies
• Join our campaign
• WEA ambassadors
• The WEA Manifesto
• Join our mailing list
• Make a donation
• Leave a gift in your will
• Fundraise for us
• Latest news
• The WEA blog
• Our strategy
• Trustees report
• Ofsted report
• Matrix report
• Gender Pay Gap
• Safeguarding
• WEA advocacy
• Subcontractors
• Carbon reduction plan
• Free downloads
• Become a WEA member
• Become a volunteer
• Help & support

• Colleges and Institutes
• Accessibility tools
• Scholarships
• Pre-degree courses
• Undergraduate study
• Post-Grad Community
• Self-paced online short courses
• On Campus short courses
• Online short courses
• Courses for teenagers
• Courses starting soon
• Summer short courses
• Customised and executive training
• Future Creatives
• Short course stories
• My account sign in
• Immigration guidance
• Terms and conditions
• Winter short courses in London or online
• Useful information
• Spring short courses in London or online
• Fashion Folio visa information
• Graded Awards in Drawing
• Online courses
• Undergraduate
• Postgraduate
• Portfolio advice
• Admissions complaints and appeals
• After you apply
• Your personal statement
• How to apply
• How to pay your tuition fees
• Enrolment visa and immigration information
• New student enrolment
• Returning student enrolment
• Student ID card collection
• Your country
• Immigration and visas
• Contact international
• Pre-sessional English
• Moving to the UK
• Application advice
• International events
• Airport collection discount
• Preparation for BA Online
• Our prospectus
• Halls of residence
• Private accommodation advice
• Summer stays
• Support in halls
• Students with disabilities and health conditions
• Pricing and availability
• Scholarships search
• International students and money
• UAL: where the money goes
• Living expenses and study costs
• Tuition fees
• Undergraduate scholarships and funding
• Foundation scholarships and funding
• PhD and MPhil funding
• Learn English
• Modern Languages
• English language requirements
• Your English language level
• Studying English Language Online
• English Language Development for students
• Intercultural and Communication Training
• Annual Language-Art Project
• Integrated Study Abroad
• UAL Study Abroad Semester
• Summer Study Abroad
• Funding and awards
• Next steps for offer holders
• Study Abroad terms and conditions
• Study Abroad Credits and Assessment
• Virtual tours UAL
• Student surveys
• Tutorial policy
• Student rights and responsibilities
• Student Privacy Policy
• Student liabilities
• Attendance Policy
• Academic Misconduct
• Reporting serious incidents
• Appealing An Exam Board Decision
• Making a Student Complaint
• Student Fees Policy
• Quality Assurance
• Course Transfer
• Extenuating Circumstances and Time Out
• IT network and acceptable use policy for students
• Contextual admissions
• Ask a student
• UAL Student Voices
• Work placements
• Find jobs and internships on Creative Opportunities
• UAL Arts Temps
• Career skills and support
• Exhibit and sell your work
• Freelance and business support
• Awards, funding and support
• Industry and Partners
• Events and workshops
• Develop your skills and strengths
• Support for Graduates
• Careers support for students
• Career resources
• International Futures
• Library service hours
• Special Collections and Archives
• Academic support
• Using the libraries
• Contact Library Services
• IT software and discounts
• Terms of Use
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
• Your UAL account
• Student Advice Service
• Counselling, Health Advice and Chaplaincy
• Disability Service
• Out of hours and emergency support
• Tell Someone
• Bullying and harassment
• Sexual violence
• Course Support Service
• Locations and opening times
• Certificates and transcripts
• Graduation live stream
• Honorary Awards 2023
• Digital tools
• Students' Union
• Canteens and cafés
• Gender neutral toilets
• Quiet spaces
• Supporting trans and non-binary students
• Student parent and carer support
• Note taking, writing and referencing
• Training and resources
• Information and resources
• Policies and procedures
• Student security
• Health and wellbeing pledge
• Vaccinations for students
• Make a living doing what you love
• Student timetables
• Wellbeing Hub
• Creating accessible digital content
• Outgoing students
• Incoming students
• Partner institutions
• Exchange contacts
• Cost of living support
• Showcase student guidance: How to write about your work
• UAL Showcase student guidance: How to make your work digitally accessible
• UAL Showcase student guidance: sales
• UAL Showcase student guidance: professionalism
• UAL Showcase student guidance: intellectual property
• UAL Showcase student guidance: digital representation
• Alumni of Colour Association
• China (Southwest) Alumni Association
• India Alumni Association
• Sustainability Alumni Network
• Alumni volunteering
• Alumni stories
• Alumni events
• Academic partnerships
• Executive Board
• Our strategy 2022-2032
• Support and donate
• Procurement
• Press Office
• Teaching and Learning strategy
• Professional development
• Awards and funding
• Teaching and Learning events
• Teaching and Learning Resources
• Sell your design products and artwork
• Staff diversity
• Change the way we teach
• Change the way we operate
• Change the way we research and exchange knowledge
• Climate Emergency Network: Changing the way we work together
• Get involved
• Documentation and carbon dashboard
• Climate action staff representation
• Events and projects
• Re-Use units
• Social Purpose
• Working at UAL
• How we work with our partners
• Work with our experts
• Work with our students and graduates
• PhD and MPhil degrees
• About the Doctoral School
• Doctoral support and community
• Fashion and the Embodied Expression of Belief, Worldview and Religion
• Art and Reconciliation: Conflict, Culture and Community
• UAL staff researchers
• Centre for Sustainable Fashion
• Creative Research into Sound Arts Practice (CRiSAP)
• Centre for Fashion Curation (CfFC)
• Groups and networks
• Research standards and ethics
• Accessibility statement for UAL staff research profiles website
• Qualifications
• Training and events
• Become an approved centre
• Schools and Colleges
• Insights: apply
• Insights: shape your portfolio
• What's on: UAL Insights
• Insights: teachers workshops and programmes
• Information for agents
• Global Projects and Partnerships
• UAL Sanctuary
• Staff mobility
• ual-resources

Short Courses

Creative writing.

• My Account |
• StudentHome |
• TutorHome |
• IntranetHome |
• Contact the OU Contact the OU Contact the OU |
• Accessibility hub Accessibility hub

Postgraduate

• International
• News & media
• Business & apprenticeships
• Contact Contact Contact
• A to Z of subjects
• Course types
• Honours degrees
• Integrated masters degrees
• Foundation degrees
• Diplomas of Higher Education
• Certificates of Higher Education
• Open University certificates
• Open qualifications
• Higher Technical Qualifications
• Microcredentials
• Short courses
• All courses
• Student stories
• Accountancy
• Counselling
• Engineering
• Environment
• IT and computing
• Mental health
• Social work
• Working with children
• Employability and the OU
• International recognition
• Apprenticeships

What is distance learning?

• A guide to our qualifications
• How long will my qualification take?
• How will I study?
• Tutors and tutorials
• How will I be assessed?
• Support and the OU community
• Ask a student
• Our global reputation

Can I do it?

• Finding time to study
• Is my English good enough?
• Computing skills
• Am I ready tool

Fees and funding

• Tuition fee loan
• Tuition fee grants and loans
• Part-time fee grant
• Support for living costs
• Employer sponsorship
• Credit or debit card
• Enhanced learning credits
• Mixed payments
• Study costs funding
• Carers' Scholarship
• Carers' Bursary
• Care Experienced Bursary
• Care Experienced Scholarship
• Scholarship for Black Students
• Disabled Veterans' Scholarships
• Sanctuary Scholarship

How to apply

• Transferring your study

Distance and online courses

We’re experts in distance learning and online courses – we've helped over 2 million people fulfil their potential and open up their future.

Study with us to benefit from innovative teaching and qualifications respected by employers, all with the flexibility and value not always available at classroom-based universities.

Welcome to the home of distance learning and online courses – for over 50 years The Open University has helped over 2 million learners to open up their futures.

Find an OU course that’s respected by employers, can help with career progression and gives you the flexibility to earn while you learn.

• Interested in postgraduate study? View postgraduate courses
• Already an OU student? Visit StudentHome

REGISTRATION CLOSES TODAY FOR COURSES STARTING IN OCTOBER

Join over 60,000 students who’ve now registered for their courses. Don’t miss out.

Choose from our wide range of courses starting this October

Browse our courses by subject

• Arts and Humanities
• Business and Management
• Combined Studies
• Computing and IT
• Creative Arts
• Creative Writing
• Criminology
• Early Years
• Health and Social Care
• Health and Wellbeing
• Health Sciences
• International Studies
• Mathematics
• Mental Health
• Nursing and Healthcare
• Social Sciences
• Social Work
• Sport and Fitness

Combine more than one subject

Find out about our Open qualifications

More to explore

Getting started is easier than you think, but if you've got questions, we have the answers. Check out the essentials to study at The Open University.

Get ahead with credit transfer

Already have a degree?

Be inspired.

Every year, thousands of students from all walks of life enrol at The Open University. Discover how we're helping these students achieve their ambition.

For me, the biggest benefit of the OU is that I can earn whilst I learn. With bills on the rise, I have friends who don’t know how they’re going to cope with the cost of living away from home. As well as funding my studies, I’m also gaining valuable work experience. This degree is going to change my life and inevitably is going to better my future.

I studied at full time intensity while working in mental health. The route I took isn’t for the faint-hearted, but it’s really paid off – I’m in such a brilliant position with my career. With over four years of experience in a related field to my degree, I’ve already built up a professional network and have a huge advantage over recent graduates.

I couldn’t find a course [at a brick university] I liked which still offered me the flexibility to work and remain living at home. Studying via distance learning isn’t a lonely experience. I’ve made life-long friends and spend my spare time travelling the country visiting them. It’s been refreshing to find like-minded people who love books as much as I do!

The Open University

• Study with us
• Work with us
• Supported distance learning
• Funding your studies
• International students
• Global reputation
• Sustainability
• Develop your workforce
• Contact the OU

Undergraduate

• Art History
• Electronic Engineering
• Film and Media
• Religious Studies
• Software Engineering
• Postgraduate study
• Research degrees
• Masters in Social Work (MA)
• Masters in Economics (MSc)
• Masters in Creative Writing (MA)
• Masters in Education (MA/MEd)
• Masters in Engineering (MSc)
• Masters in English Literature (MA)
• Masters in History (MA)
• Masters in International Relations (MA)
• Masters in Finance (MSc)
• Masters in Cyber Security (MSc)
• Masters in Psychology (MSc)
• A to Z of Masters degrees
• OU Accessibility statement
• Conditions of use
• Privacy policy
• Cookie policy
• Manage cookie preferences
• Modern slavery act (pdf 149kb)

Follow us on Social media

• Student Policies and Regulations
• Student Charter
• System Status
• Contact the OU Contact the OU
• Modern Slavery Act (pdf 149kb)

© . . .

Where do you live?

Please tell us where you live so that we can provide you with the most relevant information as you use this website.

If you are at a BFPO address please choose the country or region in which you would ordinarily be resident.