September 2025
All successful applicants who take up their place with us in September will be entered into our competition to have a consultation with Annabel White , an agent at top London literary agency Curtis Brown.
So make sure the creative work you submit with your application is your very best – it might win you a meeting with a literary agent.
As part of Kingston School of Art , students on this course benefit from joining a creative community where collaborative working and critical practice are encouraged.
Our workshops and studios are open to all disciplines, enabling students and staff to work together, share ideas and explore multi-disciplinary making.
In this video, one of our creative writing alumna and a current student discuss why they chose the course, what they enjoyed about it and why they'd recommend it to future applicants.
The Creative Writing MA (Distance Learning) follows the same course structure as the successful and popular Creative Writing MA. You'll be taught through individual tutorials, streamed lectures and readings held at or sponsored by the University.
The Writers' Workshop module will encourage you to develop your writing 'voice' through engagement with fellow students across a range of genres (in fiction or creative non-fiction), while the Special Study module enables you to specialise in one genre, such as fiction, non-fiction, poetry or drama.
You will learn the elements of fiction, poetry and drama as well as studying relevant critical theory and trying out your own fictional experiments in the Critical Challenges module. You'll take part in online masterclasses and put all you have learned into practice in the dissertation module. It is possible to use both workshop modules and the dissertation together to work towards a substantial part of a longer piece such as a novel.
This Creative Writing MA will give you the knowledge and confidence to enter the cultural debate and to begin to identify outlets for your own writing.
Full-time students can attend two campus days, scheduled annually, usually in November and February.
Part-time students normally attend the November campus day in the first year and the February campus day in the second year.
Full-time students take two 30-credit modules each semester, including a Special Study workshop on a particular genre e.g. poetry, drama or fiction, in the second semester. You'll participate in general workshops, reading sessions and tutorials with your assigned dissertation supervisor throughout the course.
You may then choose to complete a 15,000-word 60-credit dissertation accompanied by a 3,000-word critical review, for which you'll receive one-to-one supervision as you work towards a September completion.
Creative writing dissertation.
This module focuses on your own creative writing and research into your chosen form or genre, developed in consultation with your supervisor. You learn via one-to-one tutorials with your personal supervisor. You produce two pieces of writing:
Your supervisor must agree in advance the final structure, approximate word length and for presentation conventions of these pieces.
This online workshop module will be devoted to the creative writing of students all working in the same form and genre of their choice. It will enable students to develop drafts in their chosen form and genre, and to master its specific codes and conventions. Draft work to be reviewed may include, for example, poetry, prose fiction, non-fiction, writing for the stage, or screenwriting, perhaps in a choice of genres such as crime writing, fantasy fiction, writing for children, historical fiction, science fiction, romance and autobiography. Students will be advised how best to strengthen their knowledge of that form or genre in order to reflect critically and constructively on their own writing. Attention will then be given to the production of a substantial piece or a collection of pieces of creative writing that reflects their knowledge of and engagement with their chosen form or genre.
This module provides the opportunity to examine ways in which reading is essential to writing practice and teaches you to apply literary techniques and strategies from contemporary fiction, life writing and poetry texts to your own work. You will develop the concept of ‘reading as a writer' in order to explore how contemporary concerns are brought to the fore by artistic strategies, and examine how an understanding of these can provide models for your own creative practice. You will submit work including a reflective reading journal as well as a creative piece in a genre of your choice.
This is a workshop-based online module in which students will present and discuss their own work and that of their peers within a group of students writing in a variety of genres and forms. The draft work presented in the module will normally include forms such as poetry, prose fiction, non-fiction, writing for the stage or screenwriting, in a variety of genres, but it may also include genres such as science fiction, romance, crime fiction, writing for children, historical fictional, and autobiography. Students will develop a strong knowledge of the writing workshop ethos, its requirements and etiquette as mutual practical criticism of peer writing will be accompanied by discussion of the scope or constraints of the various genres as well as the implications of working in various forms. Attention will be paid to the relevant components of good writing: appropriate use of language, narrative pace, dialogue, expression, characterisation and mood.
The module is designed to introduce students to some issues of critical and literary theory. The module is also designed to make students more aware of how their work impacts upon wider literary, cultural, political and philosophical issues. Awareness of these theories and of some of the issues surrounding the production and reception of literary texts will stimulate them, encouraging creative and conceptual thinking. The module will explore debates about literature and the practice of creative writing through readings of essays and texts that are relevant to criticism and theory. The academic component of the assessment will support the creative work with the objective that students will also have to demonstrate critical, academic, analytical skills.
Typical offer.
We normally expect applicants to have:
You may also submit a sample of creative writing (maximum of 3,000 words) and a personal statement (maximum of 1,000 words) to support your application for this course.
All non-UK applicants must meet our English language requirements. For this course it is Academic IELTS of 6.5 overall with 5.5 in all elements. Please make sure you read our full guidance about English language requirements , which includes details of other qualifications we'll consider.
Applicants from one of the recognised majority English speaking countries (MESCs) do not need to meet these requirements.
You will find more information on country specific entry requirements in the International section of our website.
Find your country:
Continuous assessments in individual accredited modules plus assessment of final dissertation.
When not attending timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. This typically involves reading and analysing articles, regulations, policy documents and key texts, documenting individual projects, preparing coursework assignments and completing your PEDRs, etc.
Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the University's online virtual learning platform.
At Kingston University, we know that postgraduate students have particular needs and therefore we have a range of support available to help you during your time here.
Year 1: 5% of your time is spent in timetabled learning and teaching activity.
Guided independent study (self-managed time): 1,707 hours
Contact hours may vary depending on your modules.
Part time - year 1, part time - year 2.
Assessment typically comprises portfolios and a dissertation.
The approximate percentage for how you will be assessed on this course in each full time or part time year:
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
Class sizes are kept small for this course and usually limited to 10. However this can vary by module and academic year.
This course is delivered by Kingston School of Art. As a student on this course, you will benefit from a lively study environment, thanks to the wide range of postgraduate courses on offer. The combination of academics and practitioners makes it a unique environment in which to further your studies and your career.
The University provides a vibrant and forward-thinking environment for study with:
Postgraduate students may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader.
Course leader.
Fees for this course, 2025/26 fees for this course, home 2025/26.
Home 2024/25.
If you start your second year straight after Year 1, you will pay the same fee for both years.
If you take a break before starting your second year, or if you repeat modules from Year 1 in Year 2, the fee for your second year may increase.
If you are a UK student, resident in England and are aged under the age of 60, you will be able to apply for a loan to study for a postgraduate degree. For more information, read the postgraduate loan information on the government's website .
Bursaries are available from the School of Arts, Culture and Communications for students working on the Kingston University Press (KUP), Ripple magazine or other related activities (find out more and apply after you have enrolled).
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs that are not covered by tuition fees which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, access to shared IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees.
Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.
Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. You may prefer to buy your own copy of key textbooks, this can cost between £50 and £250 per year.
There are open-access networked computers available across the University, plus laptops available to loan . You may find it useful to have your own PC, laptop or tablet which you can use around campus and in halls of residences. Free WiFi is available on each of the campuses. You may wish to purchase your own computer, which can cost £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
In the majority of cases written coursework can be submitted online. There may be instances when you will be required to submit work in a printed format. Printing, binding and photocopying costs are not included in your tuition fees, this may cost up to £100 per year.
Travel costs are not included in your tuition fees but we do have a free intersite bus service which links the campuses, Surbiton train station, Kingston upon Thames train station, Norbiton train station and halls of residence.
Some of our departmental graduates have achieved notable successes, having published short stories and novels which were started as part of their degree, and attracted good literary agents, for example:
Initially, it was a bit daunting returning to university as a mature student (in my early 50s) but as there were quite a number of us older students we soon formed a little group and in fact became quite good friends. The thing I possibly enjoyed most about Kingston was the number of workshops on offer pretty much throughout my time there. I found myself signing up for everything, from fiction to thriller to life writing courses. I just loved the vibe of being in that academic and literary environment. It was a huge privilege being able to attend workshops, free of charge, presented by some of the most esteemed literary personalities. In addition, there were publishing events that put us in direct contact with editors, agents and publishers. Weekly events hosted by Kingston Writing School were also hugely inspiring. Listening to authors relating their journeys about the long road from writing to being published was hugely encouraging and something I rarely missed.
The actual MA course and the various modules we had to complete pushed me beyond my comfort zone, particularly in poetry, which is something I'd never had a penchant for. But, thanks to my accomplished lecturers, I ended up enjoying every single one of them.
However, it was one of the extra-curricular workshops that inspired my book, Secrets of a Stewardess . The memoir/life writing workshop was hosted by John Man, author of more than 13 books. I was convinced that I was in the wrong class as I felt that I had absolutely no story to tell, but he somehow managed to coax out of me my years as an airline stewardess in the ‘80s. I also wrote a children's book (which was signed up by an agent) while I was at Kingston University, but used the memoir as part of my dissertation.
I can honestly say that completing my MA in Creative Writing at Kingston University and then being published is one of the most rewarding things I have done. It taught me that you are never too old to achieve your goals - you just need to set them and then work towards them. Studying creative writing gave me the confidence to believe that I actually could write and the whole support system offered at Kingston University, finally helped me to get published.
Secrets of a Stewardess has been published by The History Press who has done an outstanding job of marketing it. WHS Smith Travel bought 2,500 copies upfront; I have been interviewed on BBC Radio 4; I have featured on BBC World Services', The Conversation; I have been interviewed live on Talk Radio Europe; I have had a feature in The Daily Mail newspaper; I have been interviewed and photographed by The Sun newspaper and I featured in Prima magazine's August edition.
Gretchen Ryan
A range of additional events and lectures will enhance your studies and add an extra perspective to your learning. Activities for this course include:
Live online masterclasses in each teaching block with distinguished professors and researchers such as Hanif Kureishi and Paul Bailey.
Distance Learning students who attend Campus Days are able to attend events and readings with publishing specialists and professionals that take place on these days. These have included agents such as Briony Woods, Jemima Hunt and others.
Overseas student visiting for Campus Days who wish to stay for a few days longer will find other lectures and events of interest to attend.
Students within reach of London are also welcome to attend events on campus such as talks from writer and film director Shelagh McLeod, Influx Press editor Sanya Semakula and writers Michael Hughes, Catherine McNamara and Susan Lynes.
Weekly guest lectures by leading journalists including:
Regular readings through Writers' Centre Kingston, which offers an annual programme of events from talks to workshops and festivals, hosted and curated in partnership with institutions local to Kingston University and in London, from The Rose Theatre to the Rich Mix Cultural Foundation, from the Museum of Futures to Kingston First.
Frequent philosophy lunchtime lectures which focus on a major figure in the history of Western philosophy, introducing students to that thinker's work, usually through the discussion of one of her or his emblematic works. There are also weekly Journalism lunchtime lectures with a range of industry experts.
The literary magazine Ripple is edited by MA students, providing a platform for the publication of creative work; and a chance to get hands-on experience of the publishing process.
Research in English literature and creative writing at Kingston University covers the following areas:
It focuses around the following research initiatives:
We also hold regular seminars and host presentations by visiting speakers.
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Course changes explained .
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
Kingston University , Holmwood House, Grove Crescent, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE . Tel: +44 (0)20 8417 9000
020 3376 7945
Live Online course
live online
Deadline for enrolment: 30th August 2024
September 2024
£945 ( Easy-pay plan available)
Approximately 3 months
Unleash your creativity and begin your journey as a writer. Our certificate course is designed for beginners, covering the fundamentals of creative writing across genres. Learn character creation, plot development, and delve into fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction.
Designed around five practical assignments, you will develop a writing routine and compile a portfolio to showcase your work, enabling you to start writing confidently and creatively!
As a Live Online student, you will attend tutor-led classes online taught by industry professionals. You will also have full access to the Online Learning Centre, which contains course material created by industry experts including instructional videos, written content and assignments.
Our tutors provide all the support, knowledge and in-depth feedback you need to progress through your course and are always contactable through the Online Learning Centre.
This course can be completed in approximately 3 months*.
*Completion time is based on the approximate time it has taken past students to complete the course. Students have up to 36 months to complete the course.
View the schedule for the evening classes and the weekend classes in Live Online .
The list below provides an overview of the topics covered in this course.
Introduction to Creative Writing
In this module, you will explore the foundational elements of creative writing across various genres including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama. Learn how to build a compelling narrative structure, create memorable characters, effectively use different settings and atmospheres, and master various points of view to enhance your storytelling.
Writing Techniques
Sharpen your writing skills with techniques that bring your prose to life. This module covers how to 'show, not tell' to improve descriptive writing, craft realistic dialogues, control pacing, and use flashbacks and foreshadowing. You'll also begin to develop your editing skills with practical self-editing techniques.
Poetry and Creative Non-Fiction
Delve into the forms and functions of poetry, exploring structures from sonnets to free verse. Understand how imagery and symbolism enrich your poems. You’ll also learn to write compelling personal essays and memoirs, conduct research for non-fiction, and discover the pathways to publishing your work.
Short Stories
Focus on crafting engaging short stories by understanding essential story elements, developing plots, and creating suspense and drama. This module also covers themes, motifs, and the practicalities of getting your short stories published.
Fundamentals of Dramatic Writing
Explore the basics of playwriting and scriptwriting, from structuring a play to script formatting. Learn how to develop characters for the stage and screen and use dialogue and subtext effectively to engage audiences.
All our tutors are creative writing professionals working in the industry.
Course Tutor
I would certainly recommend the Post Grad Dip to friends or other students looking to gain a professional qualification, so many new skills to learn.
Student - BAPH
The support I get from the student community and my tutor are essential. It isn't always easy and it's clearly demanding, but the whole experience is extraordinary
This course has taken me on an amazing journey - there has been a lot of learning with tutors who have given constructive feedback to help with progression.
Between the forums online and our Facebook page I feel more connected with students and staff and I never feel silly asking my tutor even basic questions!
Student - PAI
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!
We offer a range of creative writing courses to suit your goals.
Why not contact our experienced staff for advice, or browse to our other courses.
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.
The British Academy of Creative Writing is a leading provider of accredited, industry recognised creative writing qualifications in UK.
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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 .
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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!
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:
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:
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.
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) .
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?
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:
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 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.
Some courses will include audio/video materials that feature a tutor.
Many courses include live sessions (for example lectures) but do not offer 1-2-1 access to the tutor.
There are courses where the tutor will host online sessions with everyone on the course, allowing people to ask questions.
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?
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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:
While you’re hear, why not check out our courses, workshops and mentoring .
Writing the ‘difficult second novel’ with Melissa Fu
12th August 2024
Five tips for writing imaginative poetry
2nd August 2024
Winners of the Young Norfolk Writing Prize 2024 revealed
18th July 2024
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Postgraduate taught
Note: This programme is also delivered on campus. To find out more about this programme or the research opportunities available, visit our Creative Writing subject page
If you're a talented and ambitious writer looking to develop your craft and take your writing to the next level, Glasgow's renowned Creative Writing MLitt is ideal. Develop your writing practice wherever you are in the world by gaining creative and critical skills on this exciting and supportive online course.
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The full-time programme consists of the following courses. The part-time programme consists of the same courses split over two years.
"I can honestly say that the programme was the best thing that has ever happened for my writing." Nichola Deadman, Creative Writing student
Programme alteration or discontinuation The University of Glasgow endeavours to run all programmes as advertised. In exceptional circumstances, however, the University may withdraw or alter a programme. For more information, please see: Student contract .
Skills gained in the study of our Creative Writing MLitt may lead to career opportunities in literary and cultural fields such as editing, publishing and arts development. Many of our alumni are successful authors. Our graduates have also gone into journalism, publishing, and a range of other professions. Positions held by recent graduates include managing director, freelance writer, author, copywriter and community arts worker.
Tuition fees for 2024-25
Part-time fees:
The credits are split:
The UK Study Online scholarship is open to UK, EU and international students taking online undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Please see UK Study Online for more details.
If you are a Welsh student looking to study a postgraduate programme* in Glasgow then you can apply for a student loan in exactly the same way as you would for a Welsh University.
* does not apply to Erasmus Mundus programmes
If you’re starting a full-time or part-time Postgraduate Master’s course (taught or research based) from 1 August 2019, you can apply for Postgraduate Master's Finance and receive up to £17,000 as a combination of grant and loan:
For more information visit Student Finance Wales
If you’re starting a full-time or part-time postgraduate Doctoral course (such as a PhD) from 1 August 2019 you can apply for a Postgraduate Doctoral Loan of up to £25,700.
In response to the current unprecedented economic climate, the University is offering a 20% discount on all Postgraduate Research and full Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes to its alumni, commencing study in Academic session 2024/25. This includes University of Glasgow graduates and those who have completed a Study Abroad programme, International Summer School programme or the Erasmus Programme at the University of Glasgow. The discount applies to all full-time, part-time and online programmes. This discount can be awarded alongside most University scholarships.
If you are a Northern Irish student looking to study a taught Masters programme* in Glasgow then you can apply for a student loan in exactly the same way as you would for a University in Northern Ireland.
Northern Irish students are able to apply for non-means-tested tuition fee loans of up to £5,500, to help with the costs of funding.
For more information visit www.studentfinanceni.co.uk/types-of-finance/postgraduate .
The scholarships above are specific to this programme. For more funding opportunities search the scholarships database
For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.
Toefl (ibt, my best or athome).
Integrated Skills in English II & III & IV: ISEII Pass with Pass in all sub-tests.
Tests are accepted for 2 years following date of successful completion.
For international students, the Home Office has confirmed that the University can choose to use these tests to make its own assessment of English language ability for visa applications to degree level programmes. The University is also able to accept UKVI approved Secure English Language Tests (SELT) but we do not require a specific UKVI SELT for degree level programmes. We therefore still accept any of the English tests listed for admission to this programme.
For further information about English language requirements, please contact the Recruitment and International Office using our enquiry form
To apply for a postgraduate taught degree you must apply online. We cannot accept applications any other way.
Please check you meet the Entry requirements for this programme before you begin your application.
As part of your online application, you also need to submit the following supporting documents:
You have 42 days to submit your application once you begin the process.
You may save and return to your application as many times as you wish to update information, complete sections or upload supporting documents such as your final transcript or your language test.
For more information about submitting documents or other topics related to applying to a postgraduate taught programme, see how to apply for a postgraduate taught degree
These notes are intended to help you complete the online application form accurately; they are also available within the help section of the online application form.
If you experience any difficulties accessing the online application, see Application System Help .
Reference : Please provide one reference. This should typically be an academic reference but in cases where this is not possible then a reference from a current employer may be accepted instead. Certain programmes, such as the MBA programme, may also accept an employer reference. If you already have a copy of a reference on letter headed paper then please upload this to your application. If you do not already have a reference to upload then please enter your referee’s name and contact details on the online application and we will contact your referee directly.
September 2024, all applicants.
As there is extremely high demand for places on this degree programme, the University has established an application process with application rounds. This process aims to ensure fairness and equity to applicants and should support applications being open for the full admission cycle.
1 October 2023 to 19 November 2023 . You will receive our decision on your application by 3 February 2024 .
20 November 2023 to 18 February . You will receive our decision on your application by 24 March 2024 .
19 February 2024 to 27 May . You will receive our decision on your application by 8 July 2024.
28 May 2024 to 1 July . You will receive our decision on your application by 11 August 2024 .
As we receive a great number of applications, prospective students are only allowed to apply once per year.
Online postgraduate.
more related English Literature programmes
Open Days, information sessions, campus tours, events near you
Postgraduate prospectus
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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.
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.
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.
Stage 1 (he4).
For the stage
Stage 3 (he6), breakdown of costs....
£2,062 Per course unit (4o credits) | All of the OCA’s Stage 1 (HE4) course units are worth 40 credits each. If you’re studying towards an Open degree, you’ll need three Stage 1 (HE4) course units to gain the necessary 120 credits to move on to Stage 2 (HE5). If you choose to pay by instalments, each unit would be a deposit of £619 followed by 6 monthly instalments of £240.50. | |
£2,062 Per course unit (4o credits) | £3,093 for a 60 credit unit. OCA’s new curriculum runs three 40 credit units at each stage of study. Some courses may run two 60 credit units instead. You need 120 credits at this stage to advance to Stage 3 (HE6). If you choose to pay by instalments, each 40 credit unit would be a deposit of £619 followed by 6 monthly instalments of £240.50. For a 60 credit unit, this would be a £928 deposit followed by 10 monthly instalments of £216.50. | |
£2,062 Per course unit (4o credits) | All of the OCA’s Level 3 (HE6) course units are worth 40 credits each. If you’re studying towards an Open degree, you’ll need three Stage 3 (HE6) course units to gain the necessary 120 credits (plus 240 credits at HE4 and HE5) to be awarded a Bachelor’s degree.. If you choose to pay by instalments, each unit would be a deposit of £619 followed by 6 monthly instalments of £240.50. |
£2,362 Per course unit (40 credits) | All of the OCA’s Stage 1 (HE4) course units are worth 40 credits each. If you’re studying towards an Open degree, you’ll need three Stage 1 (HE4) course units to gain the necessary 120 credits to move on to Stage 2 (HE5). If you choose to pay by instalments, each unit would be a deposit of £709 followed by 6 monthly instalments of £275.50. | |
£2,362 Per course unit (40 credits) | £3,543 for a 60 credit unit. OCA’s new curriculum runs three 40 credit units at each stage of study. Some courses may run two 60 credit units instead. You need 120 credits at this stage to advance to Stage 3 (HE6). If you choose to pay by instalments, each 40 credit unit would be a deposit of £709 followed by 6 monthly instalments of £275.50. For a 60 credit unit, this would be a £1,063 deposit followed by 10 monthly instalments of £248. | |
£2,362 Per course unit (40 credits) | All of the OCA’s Level 3 (HE6) course units are worth 40 credits each. If you’re studying towards an Open degree, you’ll need three Stage 3 (HE6) course units to gain the necessary 120 credits (plus 240 credits at HE4 and HE5) to be awarded a Bachelor’s degree.. If you choose to pay by instalments, each unit would be a deposit of £709 followed by 6 monthly instalments of £275.50. |
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:
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!
Ba hons creative writing enrolment form.
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).
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;
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.
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.
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.
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
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World Top 40 English Language and Literature QS World University Subject Rankings 2024
Our rich literary connections extend from Lancaster's LitFest and medieval castle to Grasmere's Wordsworth Centre
96% of research world leading or internationally recognised (REF21)
We believe distance learning should be like a book – you should be able to pick it up and put it down when it suits you. By studying with us, you can benefit from invaluable one-to-one support from one of our published writers and work on your writing project without changing your lifestyle.
A global community
The DLMA Creative Writing at Lancaster has an established track record of success: our list of graduates who have published their work speaks for itself. Studying with us, you’ll become part of our diverse community of students who connect with each other from all corners of the globe, each bringing their unique personal experiences and cultural perspectives to the course.
Supporting your success
To support your writing project, you’ll learn from detailed online one-to-one tutorials and group conferences. We’ll match you with a published writer in your chosen genre who will be your personal tutor throughout the programme. As well as this one-to-one support, you’ll take part in virtual conferences where you’ll share your work with other students and members of our expert team.
Unmissable summer school
In the summer term of your first year, we run a week-long summer school on campus. Past students have travelled to Lancaster from locations ranging from the USA to Singapore. While this is an optional part of the programme, previous participants have said this is a highlight of the programme as they have the chance to meet other students in person, join interactive workshops and review their progress face-to-face.
During this exciting week, you’ll also benefit from interacting with professionals such as agents, publishers and writers who join us from across the UK. You’ll also take part in a field trip to the Wordsworth Trust in the beautiful Lake District.
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.
The DLMA Creative writing is taught by a dedicated team of award-winning, critically-acclaimed authors of fiction, poetry and script. The staff may change from time to time, but the following gives you a good idea of our current team.
by Professor Jenn Ashworth
by Sarah Corbett
by Tajinder Hayer
by Conor O'Callaghan
by Professor Paul Farley
by Michelene Wandor
by Eoghan Walls
by Professor Emeritus & Course Founder Graham Mort
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.
Many of our past students have gone on to publish their work and make a career out of their passion for writing. So, if you’ve always wanted to get your work published, this course is for you.
We’ll give you the support you need to become the best writer you can be, and our staff will share their own experiences with you to inspire you on your journey.
Other students have combined their writing with careers in teaching. Journalism and the media are also potential career paths.
Many of our graduates have gone on to successful publishing careers. You too might become one of these.
by Amali Rodrigo
by Barbara Schoichet
by Ruth Taaffe
by Nguyan Phan Que Mai
by Jacob Anthony Ramirez
by Helen Taylor
by Liz Monument
by Gail Kirkpatrick
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?
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.
As part of your application you also need to provide
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 .
Contact: Admissions Team +44 (0) 1524 592032 or email [email protected]
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.
The distance learning MA in Creative Writing is a two-year part-time course. It allows the convenience of study from home, enabling online tutorials with a professional writer who will respond to your work through detailed written reports. The course accommodates a range of writing, from poetry to fictional forms and is mediated through a simple virtual learning environment. Our approach is student-centred and designed to support a writing project that you will outline at the point of application.
Personal online tutorials are held twice a term and you will also participate in termly online conferences, sharing work and critical perspectives with other students. There is a week-long optional Summer school at the end of the first year. This takes the form of an intensive week of workshops, and provides a valuable addition to the course when you can meet your tutors and fellow students as well as industry professionals such as writers, editors and agents.
Year 1 | Year 2 | |
---|---|---|
Home | £5,625 | £5,625 |
International | £9,000 | £9,000 |
General fees and funding information
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.
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.
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 .
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 .
Scheme | Based on | Amount |
---|---|---|
Based on {{item.eligibility_basis}} | Amount {{item.amount}} |
We also have other, more specialised scholarships and bursaries - such as those for students from specific countries.
Browse Lancaster University's scholarships and bursaries .
English literature and creative writing.
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.
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 .
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 .
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Course content, course reviews, course learning outcomes.
After studying this course, you should be able to:
First Published: 09/08/2012
Updated: 14/05/2018
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Introduction to creative writing teaches you skills central to three of the main forms of creative writing: poetry, fiction and scriptwriting. Throughout this online short CPD course, you’ll learn methods for appealing to the senses, strategies for building characters, and ways to create compelling dialogue. Along the way, you’ll glean tips from a wide range of contemporary poetry, fiction and scripts. And you’ll get to hear professional writers share their writing habits: processes such as reading as writers, balancing instinct with intellect, and redrafting. Most important of all, you’ll get to try out each of these approaches for yourself.
This module is available for standalone study only. Any credits from this module cannot be counted towards an OU qualification.
Study level.
OU | SCQF | FHEQ |
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Module cost, entry requirements, request your prospectus, explore our subjects and courses, what you will study.
The Continuing Professional Development (CPD) short course will introduce you to three forms of creative writing: poetry, fiction and scriptwriting.
Introduction to creative writing is split into three fortnightly sections. During the first section, you will focus on poetry, next you’ll explore fiction and finally you’ll look at scriptwriting.
Weeks 1–2 focus on poetry. Since we experience the world first through our bodies, you will explore ways to appeal to the five senses: sight, sound, touch, taste and smell. You’ll see how poets such as Malika Booker, Owen Sheers and Jane Yeh have employed these techniques.
Weeks 3–4 concentrate on fiction. Fascinating characters lie at the heart of good stories. Drawing on your experiences, observations, and imagination, you will create convincing characters of your own. And then you’ll learn how to place them into compelling scenarios, following the examples of fiction writers such as Kevin Barry, Jhumpa Lahiri and Courttia Newland.
In Weeks 5–6 you will learn about scriptwriting. Here, you will be introduced to methods for putting words into the mouths of your characters. After all, what they say – and don’t say – is a core component of drama. This is something you’ll get to see for yourself in the work of scriptwriters such as Jonathan Harvey, Ming Ho and Julia Pascal.
At the mid-point of each week, you’ll pause to learn about writing habits – the kinds of rituals, routines and strategies writers tend to find useful for generating ideas, getting started and keeping going.
Each section builds to a 'Bringing it together' point, when you get to try out for yourself the writing skills and strategies you've looked at in published passages or heard discussed by working writers.
As you work through this course, you’ll be building a portfolio of creative writing, which, by the end of Week 6, will include a poem, a short passage of fiction and a few pages of script.
Knowledge and understanding
You should gain a knowledge and understanding of:
Cognitive skills
You should gain an ability to:
Practical and professional skills
You should develop:
This course has relevance for those interested in becoming professional writers as well as those interested in working in the literary industries.
There is no tuition on this course and all study is self-directed. However, a Study Advisor is present to facilitate discussion within the online forums.
The course is delivered online and makes use of a variety of online resources. If you use specialist hardware or software to assist you in using a computer or the internet you are advised to contact us about support which can be given to meet your needs.
There's no formal assessment. However, there will be three 'Bringing it together' points built into the course, which will allow you to employ in your own writing some of the key techniques you've studied.
There are no entry requirements for this course.
If you have any doubt about the suitability of the course, please contact us .
You’ll study for around 8 hours 20 mins per week for 6 weeks. In total, this course will require around 50 hours to complete.
Start | End | England fee | Register |
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05 Oct 2024 | Nov 2024 | £125.00 | Registration closes 05/09/24 (places subject to availability) |
01 Feb 2025 | Mar 2025 | £125.00 | Registration closes 23/01/25 (places subject to availability) |
This module is expected to start for the last time in October 2026. |
Credit/Debit Card – We accept American Express, Mastercard, Visa and Visa Electron.
Sponsorship – If this course is geared towards your job or developing your career, you could ask your employer to sponsor you by paying some or all of the fees. Your sponsor just needs to complete a simple form to confirm how much they will be paying and we will invoice them.
The fee information provided here is valid for short courses starting in the 2024/25 academic year. Fees typically increase annually. For further information about the University's fee policy, visit our Fee Rules .
Depending on eligibility and availability of places, you could apply to study your Access module for free.
To qualify, you must:
Once you've started the registration process , either online or over the phone, we'll contact you about your payment options. This will include instructions on how you can apply to study for free if you are eligible and funded places are still available.
If you're unsure if you meet the criteria to study for free, you can check with one of our friendly advisers on +44 (0)300 303 0069 , or you can request a call back .
Don't worry! We offer a choice of flexible ways to help spread the cost of your Access module. The most popular options include:
To explore all the options available to you, visit Fees and Funding .
All of this course’s study materials are online. Online materials are composed of pages of text with images, interactive activities, audio/video clips (with transcripts). Some online materials may also include links to external resources, and the Course-wide forum.
Printed materials are not provided for the course content. However, you are able to access the web pages in alternative formats (PDF, Word for screen readers, ebook) from the Downloads area on the course website and print them for your studies, if you wish. You are also able to download all course audio tracks and videos from this area. You will find further useful documents available in Word or PDF format in the Resources area of the course website.
You’ll need broadband internet access and a desktop or laptop computer with an up-to-date version of Windows (10 or 11), or macOS Ventura or higher.
Our module websites comply with web standards and any modern browser is suitable for most activities.
Our OU Study mobile App will operate on all current, supported, versions of Android and iOS. It's not available on Kindle.
It’s also possible to access some module materials on a mobile phone, tablet device or Chromebook. However, as you may be asked to install additional software or use certain applications, you’ll also require a desktop or laptop as described above.
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Arvon is a charity that runs creative writing courses, events and retreats both in-person and online. Our courses are tutored by leading authors and include a powerful mix of workshops and individual tutorials, with time and space to write, free from distractions of everyday life. Grants and concessions are available to help with course fees.
Masterclass: ecopoetry.
Wild listening
Improvisation; joyful tools for scriptwriting
Q&A and Reading
Transforming travel experience into compelling writing
Dashes, slashes and white space
Transform your screenplay
Poetry , Non-Fiction
New ways of looking at the natural world
‘But how do I write about…that?’
“Every time I’ve taught at Arvon - going back over fifteen years now - I’ve seen how much difference just a handful of days can make in the life of writers. There’s a perfect mix of tutorials, writing time, socializing, and discussion - all those elements come together to create an atmosphere in which writing projects move in that longed-for but often unattainable direction: forward.”
— Kamila Shamsie
Our online programme of courses, events and writing support
Virtual versions of our famous Writing Weeks, plus Masterclasses, free How I Write events, Online Writing Weekends, Writing Days and more . . . all accessible from the comfort of your sofa.
Arvon North is an ambitious capital project to adapt Lumb Bank into a beacon of creativity for the North
Help us transform Lumb Bank into an engine-house for creative writing development in the North of England, connecting the rich literary collateral of the region with a community of writers locally, regionally, nationally and globally.
Give your writing the time and space it deserves with Arvon’s dedicated Writers Retreat at The Clockhouse
The Clockhouse is specifically designed for writers on retreat. It has four apartments for writers, each with bedroom, study-lounge and bathroom. All food is provided for you, so you can spend your time as you please.
Do you believe that everyone should have the opportunity to unlock their creative potential?
Arvon is a charity that believes everyone deserves the freedom to imagine, write and explore ideas regardless of their age or financial background.
We offer residential weeks for schools, young people and adult groups.
Our weeks for schools and groups follow the same pattern as our adult course programme – led by two professional writers, with tutorials, group workshops, and time and space to write.
13 Aug 2024 / My Arvon Week
I consider myself to be quite well-travelled in the UK – always finding new places and new ways to write about…
26 Jun 2024 / Arvon Friends
New Writing North celebrated its 25th anniversary with an awards ceremony honouring writers in fiction and poetry. As part of the…
05 Jun 2024 / News
Do you have a novel writing project that needs attention? Perhaps you need some technical help, are looking for tips to…
15 Apr 2024 / My Arvon Week
A preview of Jessica Eve Watkin’s experience on a week-long writing retreat at Arvon’s writing house, The Hurst. “ ‘The…
Want to know what's coming up in the next week? Arvon’s newsletter is the best way to avoid missing out on anything - from new and upcoming courses, to Arvon giveaways and writing and self-development opportunities.
FIND A COURSE OR RETREAT
Browse & Book Online (MyCLL)
Our online courses will inspire you, motivate you to write and put you in the virtual company of other writers.
You can study these classes from your home, at whatever time you choose.
We offer three types of class:
For class dates and times, please visit our online catalogue - MyCLL - on the right hand side of this page.
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Student stories
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.
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 the centre for creative writing.
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Contact Information
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Institute of Continuing Education Madingley Hall Madingley Cambridge CB23 8AQ
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IMAGES
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Diploma in Creative Writing. Our two-year, part-time Undergraduate Diploma in Creative Writing allows you to strengthen your ability in four major areas of literary activity — prose, poetry, drama and analytical reading — as well as the chance to specialise in the medium of your choice. You can now opt to take this course mostly online.
Getting Started in Creative Writing (Online) There are no time-tabled sessions on this course. Using a specially designed virtual learning environment this online course guides students through weekly pathways of directed readings and learning activities. Students interact with their tutor and the other course participants through tutor-guided ...
Advanced Creative Writing (Online) There are no time-tabled sessions on this course. Using a specially designed virtual learning environment this online course guides students through weekly pathways of directed readings and learning activities. Students interact with their tutor and the other course participants through tutor-guided, text ...
Embracing Hull's global-facing outlook, MA Professor and accomplished author Martin Goodman describes the University's MA Creative Writing as an inspiring and collegial environment for online students who want to develop their distinctive voice as a creative writer. There is also the option to attend face-to-face events, as you seek public ...
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.
Creative Writing courses. Whether you're looking to develop your own writing skills and editorial practice for your profession or for purely personal interest, our creative writing courses have much to offer you. Choose below from our range of qualifications. Creative Writing Degrees. Stage 1 120 credits. Stage 2 120 credits. Stage 3 120 credits.
A second class degree or above, or equivalent, in creative writing, English literature, literature and language, drama or theatre studies or a humanities subject. Applicants with academic qualifications in other subjects, or relevant work experience, will be considered on an individual basis. A demonstrable interest in creative writing.
At the British Academy of Creative Writing, we offer a range of accredited creative writing courses. Our flexible study options mean you can choose to study from home or attend class-based courses. ... industry recognised creative writing qualifications in UK. London [email protected] 020 3376 7945. Manchester [email protected] 0161 5246 537 ...
OU level 2. Creative writing. Literature matters. Telling stories: the novel and beyond. OU level 3. Advanced creative writing. English literature from Shakespeare to Austen. Literature in transition: from 1800 to the present. Access modules.
The British Academy of Creative Writing is accredited by the International Approval and Registrations Centre (IARC). Unleash your creativity and begin your journey as a writer. Our certificate course is designed for beginners, covering the fundamentals of creative writing across genres. Learn character creation, plot development, and delve into ...
Craft focus: grammar, syntax, and style for creative writers. Course start date: Mon 16 Sep 2024 (and 2 other dates) Location on this date: Online. Tutors: William Brady. Great poetry and prose begin when the writer puts the right words in the right places. Learn how and why the rules and conventions of language matter in this course, which ...
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: Online; In-the-flesh, location-based; A combination of the two. By choosing an online course you are widening your choices significantly.
Our celebrated online Creative Writing Masters is perfect for talented and aspiring writers looking to gain creative and critical skills., If you're a talented and ambitious writer looking to develop your craft and take your writing to the next level, Glasgow's renowned Creative Writing MLitt is ideal. Develop your writing practice wherever you are in the world by gaining creative and critical ...
Start writing today. 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 ...
Jenna Clake, course leader for our MA Creative Writing (Online) course, talks about working with authors and academics to develop your writing in a timeframe you choose. The course is taught by distance learning with no requirement to attend classes at a set time. You can access the course space and complete the coursework in your own time ...
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. Contact: Admissions Team +44 (0) 1524 592032 or email [email protected].
Course overview. Explore the evolving needs of the marketplace while honing your writing practice on this Creative Writing online degree. Whether you dream of penning novels, writing for games, creating compelling digital content, or producing award-winning screenplays, you'll graduate with an assured voice - ready to make your mark.
This free course, Start writing fiction, will give you an insight into how authors create their characters and setting s. You will also be able to look at the different genre s for fiction. If you identify as being from a Black background, you could be eligible to study our MA in Creative Writing for free.
The course will introduce you to three forms of creative writing: poetry, fiction and scriptwriting. Introduction to creative writing is split into three fortnightly sections. During the first section, you will focus on poetry, next you'll explore fiction and finally you'll look at scriptwriting. Weeks 1-2 focus on poetry.
Browse online and in-person writing courses. Arvon is a charity that runs creative writing courses, events and retreats both in-person and online. Our courses are tutored by leading authors and include a powerful mix of workshops and individual tutorials, with time and space to write, free from distractions of everyday life.
Blaze: online creative writing courses. Our online courses will inspire you, motivate you to write and put you in the virtual company of other writers. You can study these classes from your home, at whatever time you choose. We offer three types of class: Kindling: creative writing for beginners. Feeding the Flame: creative writing for writers.
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.
Learn techniques in writing fiction, poetry or short stories, read literature ranging from Old English to contemporary, or brush up on literary theory or your critical reading skills. Our short online courses in creative writing and literature include live-time weekly classes, day and weekend schools, and flexible online courses.