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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

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●  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 ?

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Home › University › Best UK Universities For Every Degree › Best UK University For Creative Writing

Best UK University For Creative Writing

• Published November 26, 2022

The best UK universities for creative writing include the University of Leeds, Strathclyde, Warwick, Birmingham, and more. Each university has its strengths, values, and unique qualities to offer you. 

We know your struggles. It takes a lot of work and research to determine which university to apply to. Where do you even begin? How do you know if a renowned university offers Creative Writing courses? The anxiety plus lack of direction can stress any student. 

That’s why we ensure our Creative Writing summer school participants have access to 1:1 personalised consultations with expert writers. So they know what to do for their next steps in education. 

We’ve also gathered a list of some of the Top Creative Writing Universities in the UK. To give you a clear start for your journey. Read on! 

University of Leeds

The University of Leeds is one of the best universities in the UK. Do you know that the Complete University Guide 2023 ranks Leeds #16 in the UK? It’s also a member of the prestigious Russell group due to its high-quality research.

What’s Leeds’ core value? Collaboration. By working with others, it aims to address local and worldwide challenges, especially in the following:

• Promoting social justice
• Reducing inequality
• And helping to execute the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 

True to its spirit of collaboration, Leeds wants its students to experience a sense of belonging. So you can feel valued for a contribution that only you can bring with your unique talents and expertise.

What makes the University of Leeds one of the best universities for Creative Writing? The Complete University Guide 2023 ranks Leeds #1 in the UK for Creative Writing. 

In addition, Leeds’ English Literature with Creative Writing BA is #9 in the UK and #32 in the world.   

By taking the Creative Writing course at Leeds, you’ll experience producing creative writing works such as:

• Life writing
• Travel accounts

Themes you’ll encounter as you examine past and present literature include:

• Climate change
• Social class

Where do Leeds English Literature & Creative Writing graduates go? Discover Uni reports that 93% proceed to work or study further within 15 months after graduation. They find success in a variety of creative writing careers , such as:

• Civil Service
• Management Consultancy

Do you value collaboration? Are you looking for a university to help you achieve your career goals? Then check out the University of Leeds!

University of Strathclyde, Glasgow

The University of Strathclyde at Glasgow is renowned for being “the place of useful learning.” True to its reputation, it was named the University of the Year twice by the Times Higher Education University Awards. 

In addition, the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020 named Strathclyde the “ Scottish University of the Year .”

What core values serve as the foundation of Strathclyde’s excellent reputation?

• People-oriented
• Collaborative
• Ambitious 

The University of Strathclyde is one of the best UK universities for Creative Writing. Do you know that the Complete University Guide 2023 ranks Strathclyde #2 in the UK for Creative Writing? Here are some of the undergraduate Creative Writing courses available:

• English & Creative Writing (BA Hons)
• English and Creative Writing & Journalism, Media and Communication (BA Hons)
• English and Creative Writing & Psychology (BA Hons)
• English and Creative Writing & History (BA Hons)
• English and Creative Writing & Law (BA Hons)
• English and Creative Writing & Social Policy (BA Hons)
• English and Creative Writing & Human Resource Management (BA Hons)

Let’s take a closer look at English and Creative Writing & Journalism, Media, and Communication (BA Hons.) Discover Uni states that 95% of Strathclyde Creative Writing graduates proceed to work or study further within 15 months after graduation.

Common careers graduates go into include:

• Creative Writing
• Administration

What are some of the topics you may encounter during the course? 

• Shakespeare
• The Construction of Scotland
• Detective Fiction
• Writing War
• Children’s Literature
• Victorian Gothic
• Contemporary Travel Writing

What are some of the skills you’ll gain through the course?

• Proficiency with professional practices
• Textual interpretation and analysis
• Critical and constructive thinking and working skills
• Responsibility
• Excellent communication skills
• Problem-solving
• Collaboration

Are you eager to learn these skills by studying at one of the best universities in the UK? You may want to explore the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow!

University of Warwick

The University of Warwick is the #6 Most Targeted University by UK’s Top 100 Graduate Employers according to The Graduate Market in 2021, High Fliers Research Ltd. 

In addition, the UK government’s 2018 Longitudinal Education Outcomes ranked Warwick within the Top 10 UK schools. Why? Because its graduates have some of the highest earnings over 11 subjects 5 years after graduation. 

Warwick is also distinguished due to its impactful research. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 reports that 92% of its research is “world-leading.” 

Why is Warwick’s English Literature and Creative Writing BA degree among the best in the UK? Because Discover Uni reports that a whopping 100% of graduates proceed to work or study further within 15 months after graduation. 

Where do Warwick English Literature and Creative Writing BA graduates go after completing the course? They proceed to work in a variety of careers, including:

• Journalists
• Newspaper and periodical writers and editors
• Translators
• Creative directors
• Researchers

Employers include:

• The Poetry Society
• Bloomsbury Publishing
• Cambridge University Press
• Penguin/Random House
• The Forward Poetry Foundation
• The Sunday Times
• The Society of Authors
• British Council
• Royal Opera House

Are you searching for a Top UK university with excellent employability and high-salary opportunities? Definitely check out Warwick! We’ve also included it in our a-level requirements for creative writing list.

University of Birmingham

Do you know that the University of Birmingham is known as the original ‘redbrick’ university? Its effective leadership through the years continues to be its hallmark. Core values include:

• Inspirational Thinking
• Financial Stability
• Strong Partnerships on Local, National, and International Levels

The University of Birmingham is one of the best universities in the UK. With the Complete University Guide 2023 ranking it #14 in the UK. 

In addition, Birmingham is a member of the esteemed Russell Group. Its research ranking is #12 in the UK for Research Power according to the Research Excellence Framework 2021.

Why is the University of Birmingham one of the Top UK universities for Creative Writing? Because The Guardian 2023 ranks it #1 in the UK for the subject. While the Complete University Guide 2023 ranks it #4 . 

What Creative Writing courses are available at Birmingham for undergraduates? There are two options you can choose from:

• English Literature and Creative Writing BA
• Film and Creative Writing BA

When you examine English Literature and Creative Writing BA, you’ll discover that the course aims to give you a foundation in all major genres of Creative Writing, including:

• Drama 
• Media Writing

Here’s the highlight: your expert tutors, who are practising and winning writers themselves, will support you in finding your voice.

Where do Birmingham English Literature and Creative Writing graduates go after completing the course? Discover Uni reports that 90% proceed to work or study further within 15 months after graduation. Career paths include:

• Marketing Assistant
• Sales and Events Coordinator
• Editorial Assistant
• Account Executive

Here are some of the employers who hired Birmingham English Literature and Creative Writing graduates:

• Oxford University Press
• Headline Publishing Group
• Mirror Group Newspapers 

Do you want expert, practising writers to help you find your voice and support you in finding your career path? Try out Birmingham!

University of Chichester

Be original. Be you. That’s what the University of Chichester aims to help you achieve. For you to be inspired in who you are. 

Have you heard that Chichester is one of the best universities in the UK? The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 ranks it #7 in the UK for Teaching Quality. And the Complete University Guide 2023 declares it #10 in the UK for Student Satisfaction. 

Why study Creative Writing at the University of Chichester? Because the Guardian University Guide 2023 ranks it #2 for the subject. There are several Creative Writing courses available at Chichester for undergraduates, including:

• BA (Hons) Creative Writing
• BA (Hons) Creative Writing and English
• BA (Hons) Creative Writing and History
• BA (Hons) Creative Writing and Philosophy & Ethics
• BA (Hons) Creative Writing and Theology
• BA (Hons) Creative Writing and Screenwriting
• BA (Hons) Screenwriting

Looking closer at BA (Hons) Creative Writing, here are some of the things you’ll learn:

• Creating Characters
• Writing Non-Fiction
• Visual Storytelling (e.g. exploring Mangas)
• Writing Poetry
• Fiction for Children
• Screenwriting
• Contemporary Short Fiction
• Digital Writing

Such is the brilliance of Chichester’s Creative Writing course that many of its graduates become published writers and gain notable prizes, such as the Bridport Prize. 

Others have had stories and poems featured in prominent magazines such as Staple and The Paris Review. The novel of one former student, Bethan Roberts, entitled “My Policeman”, is set for adaptation on the silver screen.

What other career paths do Chichester Creative Writing graduates take?

• Copywriting

Looking to earn great success in your future writing career? You may want to check out the University of Chichester!

University of Central Lancashire

Looking to achieve your potential? That’s what the University of Central Lancashire aspires to help you with. As its motto states, “from the earth to the sun.”

True enough, the ​Higher Education Statistics Agency 2018 states that 95.5% of its graduates are employed or enrolled within 6 months after completing their course. 

What’s more, the 2020 Student Welfare League Table ranks Central Lancashire #1 for the amount of money invested in student well-being services.

Why is the University of Central Lancashire one of the best universities for Creative Writing? Because The Guardian 2023 ranks it #3 for Creative Writing in the UK. 

Also, Central Lancashire regularly invites literary agents, publishers, professional writers, and editors to help students gain valuable insights regarding their future careers. 

Where do Central Lancashire Creative Writing students go after completing their course? Discover Uni reports that 80% of Central Lancashire Creative Writing students proceed to employment or further education within 15 months after graduation. 

Recent career paths include:

• Travel and Tourism
• Advertising
• Public Service

The University of Central Lancashire is terrific in helping you find a teaching position. Why? Because they have strong links with schools in the region. So if you’re aiming to be a great writer or you want to become a teacher, consider Central Lancashire!

Sheffield Hallam University

For Sheffield Hallam University, it’s all about knowledge applied. Aside from its immense diversity, Sheffield Hallam is dedicated to providing opportunity. Do you know that 53% of its students are the first to attend university in their family? 

Sheffield Hallam is among the best universities in the UK. The UK Social Mobility Awards named it the “ University of the Year ” because of its impressive work in advancing social mobility by improving access to higher education. 

Plus, the most recent QS Stars gave Sheffield a five-star rating overall. And a Top Mark for 7 out of 8 categories, including:

• Graduate Employability
• Inclusiveness
• Hospitality and Leisure Management

Why is Sheffield Hallam University one of the best for Creative Writing? The Guardian 2023 ranks Sheffield Hallam #4 for Creative Writing in the UK. And Discover Uni reports that 91% of students were satisfied with the quality of the course. 

The full-time Creative Writing course at Sheffield Hallam aims to help you tell engaging stories in various forms and genres. You’ll learn and gain confidence through a variety of methods, including:

• Writing workshops 
• Trips and Retreats
• Lectures, seminars, and personal tutorials
• Collaborating with different audiences and organisations
• Live performances and readings
• Coming up with and pitching ideas
• Masterclasses from expert guest writers

Where do Sheffield Hallam graduates go after completing the course? They go on to have successful careers in the following industries, such as:

• Creative Industries (e.g. media, theatre)
• Arts Organisations
• Charity Sector
• Social Work 
• Government (local and regional)

Are you eager to learn how to tell immersive stories through engaging methods such as workshops, retreats, and masterclasses? Then, go for Creative Writing at Sheffield Hallam.

Edge Hill University

Edge Hill University believes knowledge creates life-changing opportunities. That’s why it has been providing access to impactful knowledge since 1885!

Do you know that Edge Hill is a renowned university in the UK? The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 recently awarded it the “Modern University of the Year” title. 

What’s more, the Graduate Outcomes 2019/2020 reports that 95.4% of its students are employed or enrolled in further study within 15 months after graduation. Edge Hill is also Top 2 in the UK for University Facilities, according to the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2022. 

Why is Edge Hill University one of the Top Creative Writing schools in the UK? The Guardian 2023 ranks Edge Hill #5 in the UK for Creative Writing. And its Creative Writing students have a £17 million state-of-the-art building to thrive and learn in, with features such as:

• IT Facilities
• Seminar Rooms
• Lecture Theatre
• Tutorial Spaces

Edge Hill offers two main Creative Writing courses:

• Creative Writing BA (Hons)
• Creative Writing and English Literature BA (Hons)

Let’s take a closer look at Creative Writing BA (Hons). The Creative Writing course at Edge Hill is a practice-led course where you’ll encounter modules such as:

• Scriptwriting
• Games Writing

And by working together with creative organisations such as the Crooked Dice Game Design Studio or the Edge Hill University Press, you’ll find your niche soon enough!

Newcastle University

Newcastle University is ranked #122 in the world, according to the QS World University Rankings 2023. The same league table awarded it the 5-star overall rating for Teaching Excellence. 

With such excellent teaching, it’s no wonder that 95% of its UK/EU graduates were employed or enrolled in further study within 6 months after graduation in 2016. In addition, Newcastle graduates benefit from careers support up to three years after graduation. 

What does Newcastle aspire to be? It aims to be people-focused. Harnessing the power of innovation, academic excellence, and creativity to benefit individuals and organisations. 

Why is Newcastle University one of the UK’s best universities for Creative Writing? The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023 ranks Newcastle #2 in the UK for Creative Writing. And the Complete University Guide 2023 ranks it #5 in the same category.

Also, Discover Uni reports that 100% of Newcastle English Literature with Creative Writing students were employed or enrolled in further study within 15 months after graduation. What are some of the employability skills you’ll learn by studying the course?

• Making marketing briefs
• Writing website copy
• Creating captivating fiction
• Coming up with persuasive arguments
• Managing projects
• Analysing complex sources and datasets
• Working independently

Newcastle English Literature with Creative Writing students can take a work placement to develop their professional expertise. Past placements include:

• Journalism and Broadcasting
• Digital Media and Marketing
• Sustainable Energy
• Museum and Heritage

Are you looking to maximise your employability at one of the UK’s best Creative Writing universities? Check out Newcastle University!

Royal Holloway, University of London

Royal Holloway aims to nurture a community that inspires individuals to succeed. It’s one of the best universities in the UK, given that the Complete University Guide 2023 ranks it #33 . 

What’s Royal Holloway most known for? It’s best known as a research-intensive academic institution. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 ranks it within the Top 25% of UK Research.

What makes Royal Holloway one of the Top UK Universities for Creative Writing? The Complete University Guide 2023 declares it #6 in the UK for Creative Writing. The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 declares Royal Holloway #1 in the UK for Creative Writing. 

There are 3 undergraduate Creative Writing degrees you can choose from:

• English and Creative Writing (BA)
• American Literature and Creative Writing (BA)
• Drama and Creative Writing (BA)

Let’s take a closer look at English and Creative Writing (BA.) By taking both subjects together, you’ll learn to become a critical reader and a confident writer. 

What major skills will you develop by taking the English and Creative Writing course at Royal Holloway?

• Writing using your unique voice
• Literary criticism
• Writing techniques
• Create and refine artistic work
• Presentation
• Communication
• Negotiation

Do you want to become a critical reader and a confident writer at one of the best Creative Writing schools in the UK? Check out the Royal Holloway, University of London!

Best UK University For Creative Writing? You now have a solid idea of where you can study to give you the best foundation for your Creative Writing-related career goals. Which ones from the list are your Top 3?

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The World-Class Wordsmith: 5 top UK universities for Creative Writing and Literature

“It’s only by writing, not dreaming about it, that we develop our own style.” – PD James

In 1970, the UK higher education sector unleashed its first ever MA in Creative Writing ; a pioneering programme that sought to teach students the art of words, the craft of language, the undying profession of storytelling. It was the first time prospective students could choose to hone their passion in a formally-taught environment – but boy, did it suffer its fair share of controversy…

Ernest Hemingway, one of the most notable influencers of 20th century fiction, once said that, “There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.” And that soon became a notion that seeped into the pores of every writing highbrow, as well as those deriving from the wider creative arts. “Some thought writing couldn’t be taught,” says Malcolm Bradbury, expert on the modern novel and advocate of the UK’s first, specialised writing MA.

“Some thought, if it could be, it shouldn’t be. Some thought it couldn’t be properly examined. And some thought that even if it could be taught with propriety and examined with rigour it still had no place in a university.”

Image via Unsplash

But now, as we approach the 47th year since the establishment of the first formalised Creative Writing course, prolific writers such as Ian McEwan , Kazuo Ishiguro , Hayley Long , Nathan Filer and Jane Green are paving the way for Creative Writing graduates around the world, and the answer to the million-dollar-question: Can Creative Writing really be taught? Is undeniably: Yes.

The writer is an artist, and therefore writing is an art, making its scandalised entrance into academia not only completely unwarranted, but also plainly hypocritical. After all, it’s okay for an illustrator, an actor, a painter or a dancer to seek proper training. But a writer…

“[A]cademic institutions offer a shelter for literary values, and for those who wish to practise them, in a way that publishing, being increasingly market-driven, does not,” Rachel Cusk writes for The Guardian . “…[I]t is both an entitlement and a necessity for creative people to study and refine their craft,” she adds.

Writing education has unlimited potential to add a great depth of diversity to an already competitive industry, by instilling students with an innovative skillset they can use to progress their careers. On top of this, a curriculum that teaches the process of getting published leaves graduates equipped with a contemporary business acumen, something that’s entirely necessary to succeed in the corporate world. Without these things, as Jennifer Tuckett writes for the Huffington Post , the possibility of diversity devalues and decreases, “because, if you don’t come from a background associated with the arts, how do you know how to be a writer?”

Image courtesy of Aberystwyth University

And for the grumbling-naysayers who maintain that Creative Writing and related subjects are ‘pointless’ and ‘dead end’, it’s a degree that grants a wealth of transferrable skills that are incredibly profitable for global employers. “For positions in marketing and publicity as well as to some extent, editorial, the skills that come from creative writing degrees can be very valuable,” says Ellie Pike, HR Adviser at Penguin .

The saying goes that everybody has a book inside them , and so long as you have passion, drive, commitment, and a deeply-ingrained love of your craft, why shouldn’t you invest in an education guaranteed to help you unleash that internalised best-seller?

So if you think this is the academic path you feel could truly work for you, here are 5 top UK universities for Creative Writing and Literature:

DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH AND CREATIVE WRITING, ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY – WALES

Aberystwyth University  (Aber) provides an education that’s both innovative and informative, encouraging students to develop into critical thinkers, innovative creators and well-rounded individuals. With comprehensive degree programmes in English Literature , Creative Writing , English and Creative Writing , and Joint Honours Programmes , Aber is helping define a generation of eloquent wordsmiths throughout the UK and the world.

Home to a diverse community of students, researchers and teachers, the Department is a vibrant and inspirational place to study. World class teaching from expert faculty enables students’ critical thinking and creativity to flourish, delivering life-long skills that lead them to success in the world of work and far beyond.

The Department of English and Creative Writing delivers a consistently outstanding student experience. In the latest national survey of student satisfaction the Department ranked #1 in Wales for English and Creative Writing, #3 in the UK for feedback and #1 in the UK for learning resources. Overall satisfaction for English was an exceptional 97%. In two recent surveys, Aber was ranked the safest place in the world to be a student – that, coupled with the impressive quality of ECW’s teaching and the unique and breath-takingly beautiful environment of West Wales coastline makes this one of the world’s most attractive English departments.

ENGLISH, UNIVERSITY OF DUNDEE – SCOTLAND

The University of Dundee blends cutting-edge intellectual achievement with practical applications, embodying an institution that is both aspirational and down-to-earth.

Dundee’s School of Humanities plays host to the university’s rich array of English courses , a vibrant cultural scene where students are welcomed into an inclusive, creative community.

Courses are developed with a conscious mind of the modern student’s needs and interests, while reflecting Dundee’s commitment to cutting-edge ideas of the field.

With interests that span the mediaeval to the contemporary period, from Classic Literature to Comic Studies, to Creative Writing and the Theatre, Dundee poses a captivating portfolio of English-based degrees.

ENGLISH LITERATURE AND CREATIVE WRITING, UNIVERSITY OF SURREY – ENGLAND

The University of Surrey is one of the UK’s leading professional, scientific and technological universities, boasting outstanding students, dedicated staff, award-winning academics, successful alumni and a whole host of other notable individuals.

Surrey’s English programmes, including Creative Writing and English Literature , have been ranked Number One in the 2016 National Student Survey, and within the Top Ten by The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017.

Through Literature and Writing , Surrey’s academics and students dig beneath the surface in search of deeper truths – about ourselves, about our generation, about our increasingly complex world.

SCHOOL OF ENGLISH, UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM – ENGLAND

The University of Nottingham is a campus-based, comprehensive and research-led institution that seeks to recruit top students and staff from all four corners of the globe.

Nottingham boasts a first-rate, international reputation for excellence in its reputed School of English , a faction formally opened back in 1881.

The School hosts a range of undergraduate , masters and distance learning options in areas like Creative Writing, Literature, English Language, Applied Linguistics and beyond, providing a unique combination of English-centred disciplines.

Students come from Spain, Italy, Germany, the USA, China, Japan, Malaysia, Brazil and across the Middle East, just to get a taste of Nottingham’s elite English teachings.

CREATIVE WRITING, UNIVERSITY OF READING – ENGLAND

The University of Reading prides itself in providing everything you need to prepare yourself for professional life and give you the edge in your future career – especially for those with a keen creative eye.

Reading’s innovative Creative Writing courses are taught by practising, published authors known at the highest professional level. As a team that comprises poets, novelists and creative non-fiction writers, Reading poses the tools to give you first-hand, valuable experience into the elusive creative process.

Reading understands that the ultimate task of the writer is to turn meaningful, raw material into something structured, shaped and polished – so the university’s Creative Writing pathway is designed to help you do this.

*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International

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Best Universities for Creative Writing

19 th June 2023

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Creative writing draws students at postgraduate level for a number of reasons. For some it’s a passion for the art and craft of stories, leading them to advanced study where they can strengthen their skills and develop as an artist. For others, it’s the prospect of applying their creative skills in exciting roles ranging from authoring books to writing screenplays, poetry, marketing materials or more. 

Whatever your reasons for studying, creative writing is an excellent way to develop strong skills in writing, imagining, reviewing and storytelling, as well as cultivating discipline and empathy. 

There are plenty of creative writing programmes to choose from at postgraduate level, many with areas of focus or applications to certain forms or industries. It can be difficult finding and shortlisting your ideal study options, so we created this guide which highlights some of the best universities for creative writing.  

Best Universities for Creative Writing 

The Complete University Guide 2024 league tables are a definitive guide to the best universities and colleges for creative writing in the UK, bringing together various data points and categories to help you find the top institutions and courses. There are three universities which have topped the overall league table for creative writing, making them the logical place to start when researching your postgraduate options. They are: 

• University of Birmingham  
• University of Strathclyde  
• University of Warwick  

Top choice for Student Satisfaction 

Student satisfaction is a key factor for postgraduate students of all kinds and should be a prime consideration for you, as a prospective creative writing postgraduate. It looks at the overall experience of students at their university, and whether they feel they are receiving a constructive and positive learning experience for their money. It’s a reflection of teaching quality and the facilities on offer, supporting services and extracurricular activities, and the lifestyle offered across the campus or city. 

In terms of student satisfaction, the best university for creative writing is Nottingham Trent University . 

Go to: Search for creative writing courses at Nottingham Trent University

Top choice for Graduate Prospects 

This category measures the success of students after their studies, and how equipped they feel to access and secure professional opportunities and achieve their career goals. For creative writing students, this will relate to things like professional skill training in the curriculum, applied learning, options for placements and real-world experiences and relevant career guidance. 

When it comes to graduate prospects, the best university for creative writing is the University of Birmingham . 

Go to:  Search for creative writing courses at University of Birmingham

Top choice for Research Quality 

Research quality is a category that describes the standard of research that a university puts out, as well as the capacity for students to get involved in and be informed by relevant, impactful research activities. It’s influenced by the expertise and output of a university’s academics, the quality of research facilities and its links to research groups and industry partners. 

For creative writing students, research quality will be primarily related to research achieved through creative practice, as well as understanding the interface between creative writing and society. 

The best university for creative writing, in terms of research quality, is Newcastle University . 

Go to: Search for creative writing courses at Newcastle University

Ranking Information Source   

The Complete University Guide’s league tables have been used to source the ranking information for this article. The league tables use data from the National Student Survey, the Higher Education Statistics Agency and the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, and the rankings are calculated using the Complete University Guide’s own methodology. 

Go to:  See the 2024 Complete University Guide creative writing subject league table  

Student reviews 

Student reviews, found through Whatuni , are an excellent way to gain a more comprehensive understanding of students’ experiences at studying at a university, adding to the information provided in the Complete University Guide tables to help you identify your best uni for creative writing. 

One university that particularly shines due to the high ratings and reviews it receives, including many five-star ratings, is Leeds Arts University . One reviewer wrote, “If you have any issues, you can rely on getting help from the university! Support is amazing.” 

Go to:  Search for creative writing courses at Leeds Arts University

More universities for studying Creative Writing 

There are more than 260 postgraduate programmes in creative writing available across the UK, offered by over 115 different universities. Which such a wide range of choice, tools like our course finder are an excellent way to browse, shortlist and select the programmes that best suit your needs and aspirations.  

Next: Search for creative writing courses

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Creative Writing at Royal Holloway ranked 1st in the UK

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Creative writing at royal holloway has been ranked 1st in the uk in the times good university guide 2022.

• Date 13 October 2021

Creative Writing at Royal Holloway began in 2004 offering an MA and then in 2007 launched one of the earliest Undergraduate Creative Writing programmes in the UK.  We now offer Creative Writing and Drama and American Literature and Creative Writing.  We have expanded our options to include popular courses on Screen Writing as well as cutting edge experimental art writing between the visual and verbal forms.

Prize winning novelist Ben Markovits explains why he thinks we came top in the UK: “Most of the teaching at Royal Holloway is done in small groups, which means you get to know each other and your professors well by the end of the three years. It’s easy to get lost on a big course. That doesn’t happen here. But we’re also big enough that you get to hear a variety of different voices and styles on your way to the degree.   If I were a student today, these are the two main things I’d want from an English degree: how to read a sentence so that you know what it means; and how to write one so that it says what you want. This is the core of what the Creative Writing program at Royal Holloway allows you to focus on – in workshops and seminars, and in different forms and genres.”  

Dell Olsen, a poet and also Director of the undergraduate programmes says “they all comprise exciting and innovative courses which allow students to combine critical and creative approaches to writing across a range of forms and genres. Our students have access to the teaching expertise of both creative and academic writers who encourage and challenge them to write and think differently. The campus at Royal Holloway is a calm environment in which students can develop their writing while also providing easy access to cultural events of central London.”

Find out more about our BA English and Creative Writing course online here. 

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University of Hull

3 Creative Writing degrees

• OVERALL RATING This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni. (4.1) 516 reviews
• Employment rate: 95% Source: UNISTATS , 2019
• CUG ranking : 14th Source: Complete University Guide 2025

Creative Writing and English BA (Hons)

• UCAS points 120
• UCAS code WQ83
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University of Brighton

• OVERALL RATING This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni. (4.0) 1498 reviews
• Employment rate: 94% Source: UNISTATS , 2019
• CUG ranking : 30th Source: Complete University Guide 2025

Creative Writing BA (Hons)

• UCAS points 104-120
• UCAS code W800

Birmingham City University

• OVERALL RATING This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni. (4.0) 1940 reviews
• Employment rate: 100% Source: UNISTATS , 2019
• CUG ranking : 37th Source: Complete University Guide 2025

English and Creative Writing BA (Hons)

• UCAS points 112
• UCAS code QW38

University of Reading

5 Creative Writing degrees

• OVERALL RATING This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni. (4.2) 1793 reviews

English Literature with Creative Writing BA (Hons)

• UCAS points 120-141
• UCAS code Q3W8

Bangor University

7 Creative Writing degrees

• OVERALL RATING This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni. (4.4) 2648 reviews
• CUG ranking : 26th Source: Complete University Guide 2025
• UCAS points 104-128
• UCAS code W801

University of Leicester

2 Creative Writing degrees Next open day in 1 day

• OVERALL RATING This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni. (4.2) 1341 reviews
• Employment rate: 92% Source: UNISTATS , 2019

Journalism with Creative Writing BA (Hons)

• UCAS code P502

University of East Anglia UEA

10 Creative Writing degrees

• OVERALL RATING This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni. (4.2) 1806 reviews
• CUG ranking : 7th Source: Complete University Guide 2025
• UCAS points 132-144

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

6 Creative Writing degrees

• OVERALL RATING This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni. (4.2) 1458 reviews
• Employment rate: 85% Source: UNISTATS , 2019
• UCAS points 96-112

University of Portsmouth

4 Creative Writing degrees

• OVERALL RATING This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni. (4.2) 2534 reviews
• CUG ranking : 27th Source: Complete University Guide 2025
• UCAS points 112-120
• UCAS code WW80

Middlesex University

2 Creative Writing degrees

• OVERALL RATING This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni. (4.2) 1377 reviews
• Employment rate: 90% Source: UNISTATS , 2019

Creative Writing and Journalism BA (Hons)

• UCAS code WP85

Studying creative writing

Studying creative writing at uni is a great way of giving yourself the platform to become the best writer you can be. Whether you want to write novels, poems, scripts, copy or something completely different, a creative writing degree will help you develop the technical skills to allow you to do so. You’ll look at writing in the context of the wider world and could explore the written word’s relationship with sound and images in relation to production and publication. Creative projects, workshops and possible work placements will also give you practical experience in the field. With a creative writing degree, you could explore many different career options, such as novel writer, screenwriter, copywriter, journalist, web content editor, proofreader and social media specialist. 

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Interested in more than one study area? The QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021 cover 51 different subjects. Click here to see the full list.

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• Postgraduate study
• Postgraduate taught courses

English Literature (Creative Writing)

Explore this course:.

Applications for 2024 entry closed at 5pm on Friday 6 September. Applications for 2025 entry open on Monday 16 September.

School of English, Faculty of Arts and Humanities

Course description

You’ll study contemporary creative writing methods and practices and develop your skills in different genres, cross-genres and a wide range of formal and genre experimentations. You’ll also develop and explore your own creative and critical writing through practical workshops and the critical reading of contemporary creative and theoretical texts.

You’ll be encouraged to take all four creative writing core modules, with a minimum of three, which are designed to interact with each other theoretically, thematically and methodologically, to allow for experimentation between literary practices and productive genre crossovers.

The course culminates in a dissertation. You’ll be producing portfolios of both creative and critical work for each module and for your dissertation, all of which may take the form of poetry, prose poetry, short stories, a novel extract, poetic prose, hybrid texts and other genres, as well as formal or cross-media experimentations.

This MA will help you develop your creative writing to a publishable quality, providing a positive, friendly, nurturing, intellectual and creative environment for confident, bold and imaginative development of contemporary creative writing forms and practices. You’ll explore your own writing through practical workshops and learn how to creatively and constructively critique your own and other students' work.

You’ll benefit from the buzzing literary culture at Sheffield and get involved in public and university readings, publications and festivals throughout your time with us. You're encouraged to publish your work and to participate in student-led, peer-feedback editorial sessions.

We run monthly public readings within the Centre for Poetry and Poetics with established writers and have an annually published creative writing journal, Route 57 , which is edited and assembled by our own creative writing students. Each year we also run various creative writing projects, student readings and hubs which will give you a variety of opportunities to meet fellow writers within our well established Postgraduate Creative Writing community which comprises current and alumni students of the MA and PhD.

An open day gives you the best opportunity to hear first-hand from our current students and staff about our courses.

You may also be able to pre-book a department/school visit as part of a campus tour. Open days and campus tours

• 1 year full-time
• 2 years part-time

How we teach core modules

For the four core creative writing modules, you’ll meet for a two-hour workshop each week. These workshops are held in the late afternoons or early evenings.

A workshop is an informal, creative and critical environment that allows you to receive feedback on your writing from both the tutor and your fellow students. 

You’ll have the opportunity to discuss creative and theoretical practices, drawing on a wide range of selected contemporary reading material. You'll be encouraged to produce new writing on a weekly basis, which we discuss in the workshops.

How we teach optional modules

Modules from MA English Literature are taught in seminars, which can vary from 1.5 to 2.5 hours long. These are held weekly or fortnightly depending on the module. Many of these seminars are held during the day.

Teaching staff

Our current staff are active and internationally-recognised authors, academics and creative forces in their fields:

• Dr Agnes Lehoczky (Programme Convenor for the MA in Creative Writing, Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing)
• Professor Adam Piette (Professor of Modern Literature)
• Clare Fisher (Lecturer in Creative Writing)
• Dr Michael Kindellan (Vice Chancellor’s Fellow)
• Jane Lowe (Creative Writing Programme Administrator)

Former teaching staff have included Dr Vahni Capildeo, Professor Simon Armitage, Dr Honor Gavin, Professor Denise Riley, Dr Laura Joyce and Dr Rachel Genn.

You'll be assessed at the end of each term on creative writing portfolios which will include your creative work and a critical essay as well as your dissertation project which will consist of both creative and critical components.

The dissertation is 80% creative and 20% critical reflection on your own work, genre or relevant literary tradition. You'll prepare for it through work you've done in both creative writing modules. The word count for fiction is:

• 12,000 words of creative work
• 4,000 words of which may already have been workshopped or submitted
• 3,000-5,000 word critical essay

For poetry, the word count is:

• 20 poems, or equivalent (roughly up to 400 lines approx), five of which may have already been previously workshopped or submitted (as long as drafts are submitted to indicate changes)
• 3,000-5,000 words critical essay

Mixed portfolios are welcome. For work previously submitted, we would like you to submit drafts to show changes and developments made to the material.

Your career

Our alumni have gone on to publish creative work and pursue research paths in various sectors. View a list of publications by our current students and alumni who have published work during and since completing our degree programme in Creative Writing.

Alumni and student publications

Your career - the School of English

School of English

We're a research-intensive school with an international perspective on English studies. Students can specialise in their chosen subject, while taking modules from other programmes, forging interdisciplinary connections. We encourage you to get involved and to apply your academic learning, working in partnership with external organisations both within the city of Sheffield and beyond.

Our staff are researchers, critics, and writers. They're also passionate, dedicated teachers who work tirelessly to ensure their students are inspired.

We keep seminar groups small because we believe that's the best way to stimulate discussion and debate. Our modules use a range of innovative assessments and can include designing websites, writing blog posts, and working with publishing software, in addition to writing essays and delivering presentations.

We're committed to providing you with the pastoral support you need in order to thrive on your degree. You'll be assigned a personal tutor with whom you'll have regular meetings. You're welcome to see any of our academic staff in their regular student consultations if there's anything you want to ask.

Minimum 2:1 undergraduate honours degree in a relevant subject.

Subject requirements

We accept degrees in the following subject areas: 

• English Language
• English Literature
• Linguistics
• Modern Languages

Your degree should be in an Arts and Humanities or Social Sciences subject.

View an indicative list of degree titles we would consider

IELTS 7.5 (with 7 in each component) or University equivalent

If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for a pre-masters programme in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Sheffield International College . This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school/department .

Fees and funding

There are a number of studentships and fee bursaries available, funded by the University. Deadlines for funding applications are usually in winter/early spring.

Applications for 2024 entry closed at 5pm on Friday 6 September. Applications for 2025 open on Monday 16 September.

More information

[email protected] +44 114 222 0220

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Creative Writing (modular)

• Entry year 2024 or 2025
• Duration Full time 1 year, Part time 2 years

Top reasons to study with us

World Top 40 English Language and Literature QS World University Subject Rankings 2024

96% of research world leading or internationally recognised (REF21)

Our rich literary connections extend from Lancaster's LitFest and medieval castle to Grasmere's Wordsworth Museum

Why Lancaster?

• Study close to the beautiful Lake District, home of our partners, the Wordsworth Grasmere
• Be inspired by our rich programme of literary events on campus, online, and in the city’s historic Castle Quarter
• Study on campus in the University Library’s bespoke Postgraduate Study Space, or in the Castle Quarter within the University’s Postgraduate Study Hub at The Storey, the city’s Victorian-built arts venue.
• Get involved with our student-run literary journals and our partners, Lancaster LitFest
• Develop your own work with support from our many celebrated author-tutors
• Explore the professional dimensions of Creative Writing, such as reading or performing your work, publishing, and marketing

Lancaster was one of the very first universities to teach creative writing. Today we continue to lead in the discipline with our celebrated novelists, poets and playwrights.

Focused on your growth

We’ve been helping writers reach their potential since 1970. From day one, our focus has always been on helping our students hone their work, and sharpen the myriad skills involved in writing at the very highest levels.

This emphasis continues today so that the focus in all your modules will, ultimately, be your own writing.

With our many author-tutors, you can explore traditional forms such as the short story, the novel, poetry, theatre, as well as digital media, life-writing, place-writing, graphic novels, writing for games, the lyric essay, and writing for young adults.

Support from experts

There is plenty of opportunity to meet your tutors face-to-face to discuss your work, and you’ll find they are friendly, interested and encouraging. You’ll also have an academic advisor who will develop an overview of your progress and offer further support.

In the third term, we assign you a genre-specific expert to help develop your final portfolio. This is intended to be suitable for submission to literary journals or agents, setting you on the road to publication.

Literary Community

Many of our special literary events (readings, conversations etc) take place in the Castle Quarter, with the Department’s flagship events, the October Lecture and May Gathering, being usually held at Lancaster’s ancient Priory. In addition, we have a unique partnership with the archive-rich Wordsworth Museum at Grasmere, which includes internships, an annual study retreat day, and free entry at any time of the year.

Most years our Creative Writing MAs publish an anthology, and compete for a place within our student showcase at Lancaster city’s very own LitFest

Department Bursaries, Awards, and Prizes

Thanks to generous endowments, in addition to the support offered by the University, the Department is currently able to offer:

• The David Craig Writing Award

One award of £500 is made each year to a student starting a Master’s programme in Creative Writing.

• The Bailrigg Awards – these are awards of up to £150 and are open to any student in the Department who is suffering financial hardship endowment.
• Two end-of-programme prizes for students on this MA

The course provides many opportunities to develop professionally. You can get involved with our student-run journals, and will also benefit from our rich programme of guest events featuring leading authors, and specialists from the publishing industry.

Each year we encourage our students to bring together and edit their own anthology of student work which is then celebrated in a reading event in the summer term. This event is also a chance to meet summer school students from our distance learning Creative Writing MA.

We hope most of our students go on to publish their own work, and many of the Department’s alumni are now celebrated authors. Recent success stories include Camille Ralphs, Andrew McMillan, Nguyen Phan Que Mai, Martha Sprackland, and Daisy Johnson, the youngest-ever author shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize (2018).

You’ll also develop a host of professional skills, such as researching, drafting, editing, listening, persuading and presenting. From advertising to professional services, your skills will be sought after across many different sectors.

Graduates of this course go on to careers in areas such as:

• Television and the media
• Librarianship

You may choose to continue your studies at PhD level to deepen your knowledge and progress into an academic career. Graduates of this course have gone on to teach at universities throughout the world.

Your department

• English Literature and Creative Writing Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

Master's Programmes in Creative Writing at Lancaster University

Discover the key features of studying a master's degree in Creative Writing at Lancaster University. Our Creative Writing courses offer flexible study options, to allow the opportunity for you learn in the way that suits you best.

Being so close to the spectacular Lake District, home of the Romantic poets, the Department has world-class strengths in Romanticism. Our partnership with the Wordsworth Trust, at Grasmere, is long-established, and has a number of new benefits for all our students.

The Castle Quarter is both a wonderful place to enjoy, with many excellent places to eat and drink, and a wonderful resource for literary studies here at Lancaster. Our students in the Department of English Literature & Creative Writing have many opportunities to make the most of this resource.

Advance your career with a Master's at Lancaster University - Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

Hear from alumni in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at Lancaster University. What did they study and how did their course propel their career?

Entry requirements

Academic requirements.

2:1 degree in a related subject is normally required. We will also consider applications on an individual basis where you have a degree in other subjects, have a 2:2 or equivalent result or extensive relevant experience. You should clearly be able to demonstrate how your skills have prepared you for relevant discussions and assessments during postgraduate study.

Please contact us for more information.

If you have studied outside of the UK, we would advise you to check our list of international qualifications before submitting your application.

Additional Requirements

As part of your application you also need to provide

• a portfolio of original writing (no more than 12 poems or 20 pages of prose/scriptwriting) showing potential for publication

English Language Requirements

We may ask you to provide a recognised English language qualification, dependent upon your nationality and where you have studied previously.

We normally require an IELTS (Academic) Test with an overall score of at least 7.0, and a minimum of 6.5 in each element of the test. We also consider other English language qualifications .

If your score is below our requirements, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English language programmes .

Contact: Admissions Team +44 (0) 1524 592032 or email [email protected]

Course structure

You will study a range of modules as part of your course, some examples of which are listed below.

Information contained on the website with respect to modules is correct at the time of publication, but changes may be necessary, for example as a result of student feedback, Professional Statutory and Regulatory Bodies' (PSRB) requirements, staff changes, and new research. Not all optional modules are available every year.

core modules accordion

The portfolio module is your opportunity to develop an individual project that will lead to a fully-realised piece of creative work. Typically, you will be supervised by a specialist in your chosen area of interest.

The creative work may be several pieces of short fiction, a radio play, a coherent collection of flash fiction, prose poetry, poetry, an extended personal essay/memoir/autofiction, or a continuous extract from a proposed novel or other book-length work.

• Generate the idea for a piece of creative work in your chosen form
• Propose an independent reading plan
• Draft no more than 5,000 words for initial tutor review
• Develop and edit your creative project and present the finished work to a high standard - as appropriate for your chosen form (eg correctly formatted script)
• Demonstrate your knowledge of relevant form, technique, and process by writing a 3,000 word reflective essay, including a full bibliography

You will receive informal, verbal feedback during regular dissertation meetings with your supervisor. This will include suggestions for reading and research as well as feedback on the development of your creative project. When the portfolio is graded, it will be returned to you with detailed written feedback.

This module prepares you for your dissertation project and supports the development of the research, scholarly and critical skills that it will require. You will be introduced to the idea of ethical practice and any students working on memoirs or verbatim work will be offered specific guidance. You’ll also explore the ideas, concepts and issues around reflective practice and the vital role of research within creative writing.

We’ll study in a cohesive group, bringing students on combined courses and those following different pathways together to create a wider forum; our discussions will focus on professional practice and research issues.

This module aims to enhance your knowledge of library, archival and online research and develop your understanding of the creative process - taking you from first draft to final submission, including problem-solving strategies for creative blocks or obstacles. The module also places your creative work in the context of a professional literary world.

Indicative study themes:

• Understanding the Research Context
• Library, Online and Archival Research
• Scholarly Conventions
• Creative and Professional Presentation
• Research and Reflective Practice
• The Ethical Researcher

optional modules accordion

This module will allow you to develop an idea for a novel, select techniques appropriate to your genre, theme and style and prepare you to complete an extract or series of extracts from a novel in progress. Through reflective exploration of several contemporary novelists, targeted writing exercises and workshops, you will explore character, voice, point of view, genre, form, setting and place.

The module will be taught by a combination of interactive lectures on the set texts, plus workshops and individual feedback on work in progress from your tutors.

You will be assessed on the submission of a portfolio and a reflective essay.

This module will enable you to develop your understanding of prose writing for young people, with a focus on Children’s Fiction (8-12 years) and Young Adult Fiction (11+ and 14+). During the module, you will develop an idea for a manuscript suitable for one of these audiences. The manuscript will be informed by the critical discussion of the set texts, targeted writing exercises and participation in workshops. Together, we will explore voice, point of view, story structure, setting and place, as well as formulate conceptions of the role of gatekeeping, reader expectations, and current movements and trends in the children’s publishing landscape. You may come prepared with a manuscript idea you wish to work on, or you might build on an idea generated in class. Towards the end of the course, you will also be asked to write reflectively on your creative process.

This module aims to do two things: to encourage the student to think about contemporary poems in several different visual dimensions but always from the viewpoint of the practitioner; and it offers an opportunity for them to develop their own work in progress, while at the same time actively promoting their critical reflection upon the process of writing and the visual dynamics a poem can activate and contain. The module admits that the ‘how to’ approach might be of less use when it comes to writing poetry, and instead promotes and explores a wider sphere of influences, encouraging experiment and engagement. A critical exegesis allows the student to reflect upon the decisions made and the effects sought in their creative project. These aims will be achieved through a variety of methods:

The short story is a complex and malleable form. This module considers the multiple forms and styles of contemporary short fiction from a range of cultural backgrounds and nationalities.

You will have the chance to develop your understanding of short fiction by drawing upon contemporary writers as well as secondary and critical reading - which will also help you to build a critical and theoretical framework around your own writing.

Peer and tutor review, both oral and written, will encourage you to work reflectively as a creative practitioner. And you’ll be encouraged to demonstrate your knowledge of the forms and genres used in contemporary short story writing by incorporating them in your own short story portfolio.

• The longer short story of Alice Munro
• The historical short story (eg ‘The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher’)
• Myth and fairy tale in the short story
• Magical realism and the fantastic
• Formal experimentation
• Science and the short story (the Comma Press 'Science into Fiction' Series)
• Politics and the short story

This module introduces you to the personal essay: a flexible, hybrid form incorporating elements of cultural and literary criticism, memoir, journalism, fiction and auto fiction. We will explore a number of modes of personal writing, assisting you in the development of a form that best serves your creative intentions.

Taught via literature seminars and creative workshops, you will experience a range of literary techniques, including generative writing prompts and exemplar texts. You will also learn how to respond reflectively and creatively to feedback - to this end, one seminar each term will be replaced by a one-to-one personal tutorial.

• The Writing 'I': developing a voice, the strategic ‘I’, literary personae, authority and double perspective.
• Mode and register: memoir, documentary, reflection and commentary.
• Scene setting and dramatisation: applying creative technique to 'real life' material.
• Finding a subject; the writing self and the world.
• Autofiction, truth and artifice.
• Developing a form: the list essay, the braided essay, collages, fragments and mockuments. Rereading, rewriting, reconsidering: reflective editing and responding to feedback.

This module will introduce students to writing for games of all kinds, both digital and pen-and-paper. We will explore the basic principles of collaborative narrative experience as we seek to engage both critically and creatively with this new and extremely popular branch of contemporary writing. The weekly workshops are currently supplemented by a weekly, evening Games Study Night in the University Library to explore existing games, play-test your own, and enjoy the Library’s rich collection of board games.

This module looks at poetry culture in the UK and beyond, preparing you to enter the world of the publishing poet by closely examining the prize culture, some of the significant prize- winning collections by new poets over the last few years, and current poetry journals.

You will investigate current trends, having the chance to learn what it takes to get your work read - by editors, publishers and the poetry-consuming public. And you’ll put together a publication package with the aim of building your own portfolio in readiness for the vibrant and varied poetry marketplace - which continues to defy predictions of its demise.

Each seminar will typically be divided into reading and workshopping of your creative work in light of what we've read.

Indicative study texts:

• Seamus Heaney, Seeing Things (Faber, 1991)
• Sarah Howe, Loop of Jade (Chatto 2015)
• Kei Miller, The Cartographer Tries to Map a Way to Zion (Carcanet 2014)
• Sam Riviere, Kim Kardashian's Marriage (Faber 2015)
• Andrew McMillan, Physical (Cape 2015)
• Max Porter, Grief is the Thing with Feathers (Faber 2015)
• The Current Forward Anthology for that year
• A series of poetic journals (as chosen by your cohort)
• Michael Symmons Roberts, Drysalter (Cape 2013)
• Sinead Morrissey, Parallax (Carcanet 2013)

The aim of this module is to enable you to write drama for radio, developing your own scriptwriting style and gaining an awareness of the professional requirements of the genre. We will study exemplar radio dramas and use them to contextualise the creative choices in your own work whilst also exploring the effects of different structural and stylistic approaches.

Peer and tutor feedback will guide the development of your creative portfolio as you work towards a single radio drama script of 25 pages. Reflective practice will help you to develop the art of redrafting and editing and you will pen a 1,000-word essay placing your experience of this in the context of radio drama.

Taught through a combination of seminars and workshops, we will initially focus on the key elements of writing for radio, with weekly tasks corresponding to study themes. Latterly, we will move on to more intensive workshopping of your own work.

• The radio landscape
• Navigating through and creating soundscapes
• Character creation and character voice
• Story structure
• Status shifts
• Script format (and software resources)

Science Fiction and Fantasy are two incredibly popular, historied genres. This module gives students the opportunity to study the particular techniques and processes employed by writers of SFF, and exposes them to a diverse selection of contemporary speculative texts. Students will be tasked with looking back over the rich history of both genres with a critical eye, tracing the sources of many of the genre traditions they will be familiar with, before recontextualising and interrogating those traditions in their own work, or working explicitly beyond them. This module explores forms commonly associated with Science Fiction and Fantasy, such as the trilogy and the series, but also looks at experimental and marginal forms, such as genre poetry. There are a tremendous amount of sub-genres, and ways of incorporating SFF into literature, and students will be encouraged to consider the broad spectrum of contemporary Science Fiction and Fantasy, and where their own work belongs in regard to it.

Fees and funding

General fees and funding information

Additional fees and funding information accordion

There may be extra costs related to your course for items such as books, stationery, printing, photocopying, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. Following graduation, you may need to pay a subscription to a professional body for some chosen careers.

Specific additional costs for studying at Lancaster are listed below.

College fees

Lancaster is proud to be one of only a handful of UK universities to have a collegiate system. Every student belongs to a college, and all students pay a small College Membership Fee which supports the running of college events and activities. Students on some distance-learning courses are not liable to pay a college fee.

For students starting in 2024, the fee is £40 for undergraduates and research students and £15 for students on one-year courses. Fees for students starting in 2025 have not yet been set.

Computer equipment and internet access

To support your studies, you will also require access to a computer, along with reliable internet access. You will be able to access a range of software and services from a Windows, Mac, Chromebook or Linux device. For certain degree programmes, you may need a specific device, or we may provide you with a laptop and appropriate software - details of which will be available on relevant programme pages. A dedicated IT support helpdesk is available in the event of any problems.

The University provides limited financial support to assist students who do not have the required IT equipment or broadband support in place.

For most taught postgraduate applications there is a non-refundable application fee of £40. We cannot consider applications until this fee has been paid, as advised on our online secure payment system. There is no application fee for postgraduate research applications.

For some of our courses you will need to pay a deposit to accept your offer and secure your place. We will let you know in your offer letter if a deposit is required and you will be given a deadline date when this is due to be paid.

The fee that you pay will depend on whether you are considered to be a home or international student. Read more about how we assign your fee status .

If you are studying on a programme of more than one year’s duration, tuition fees are reviewed annually and are not fixed for the duration of your studies. Read more about fees in subsequent years .

Scholarships and bursaries

You may be eligible for the following funding opportunities, depending on your fee status and course. You will be automatically considered for our main scholarships and bursaries when you apply, so there's nothing extra that you need to do.

Unfortunately no scholarships and bursaries match your selection, but there are more listed on scholarships and bursaries page.

If you're considering postgraduate research you should look at our funded PhD opportunities .

We also have other, more specialised scholarships and bursaries - such as those for students from specific countries.

Browse Lancaster University's scholarships and bursaries .

Similar courses

English literature and creative writing.

• Creative Writing PhD
• Creative Writing (Distance Learning) MA
• Creative Writing with English Literary Studies MA
• English Literary Research MA
• English Literary Studies MA
• English Literary Studies with Creative Writing MA
• English Literature PhD
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David Craig Memorial Fund

Level of Study: Master's degree

Details of Award: The David Craig Writing Award was set up in David’s memory by his four children, Marian, Peter, Donald and Neil, and his wife Anne Spillard Craig, with the support of Lancaster University. One award is made each year to a student starting a Master’s programme in Creative Writing . The award is made on the basis of the student having applied and received an offer to join the programme, and a short statement about how they would use the award. We look for evidence that the award will help them become a successful writer whose work connects experience, place, and history.

Important Information

The information on this site relates primarily to 2025/2026 entry to the University and every effort has been taken to ensure the information is correct at the time of publication.

The University will use all reasonable effort to deliver the courses as described, but the University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. In exceptional circumstances that are beyond the University’s reasonable control (Force Majeure Events), we may need to amend the programmes and provision advertised. In this event, the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the disruption to your studies. If a course is withdrawn or if there are any fundamental changes to your course, we will give you reasonable notice and you will be entitled to request that you are considered for an alternative course or withdraw your application. You are advised to revisit our website for up-to-date course information before you submit your application.

More information on limits to the University’s liability can be found in our legal information .

Our Students’ Charter

We believe in the importance of a strong and productive partnership between our students and staff. In order to ensure your time at Lancaster is a positive experience we have worked with the Students’ Union to articulate this relationship and the standards to which the University and its students aspire. View our Charter and other policies .

League tables and reputation

A highly-ranked university with a global reputation.

Colleges and community

Your college will be your home away from home.

Careers and employability

Career support for our students through university and beyond.

Student life

Lancaster has so much to offer. On our campus, in our city and in our community, you’ll find your place – whoever you are.

Where is Lancaster?

Lancaster is easy to get to and surrounded by natural beauty.

The campus and the city

Our campus and the surrounding area is a great place to call home.

Your global experience

Build your global community on campus and around the world.

Wellbeing and support

Services to help you fulfil your potential at Lancaster.