University of Exeter United Kingdom

MA Creative Writing

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MA Creative Writing at the University of Exeter is designed for aspiring writers who wish to hone their craft and explore diverse literary forms, from poetry and prose to screenwriting and narrative games. You will engage with critical debates surrounding contemporary literature, understand the dynamics of the publishing industry, and develop your unique authorial voice. This postgraduate degree is ideal for those passionate about using writing to address significant global issues, such as environmental activism and social justice, preparing you to contribute meaningfully through your literary endeavours.

Studied full-time on campus over one year, this Master's degree offers a flexible structure where you will choose 120 credits of optional modules alongside the compulsory Creative Writing Dissertation. You will have the opportunity to experiment with modules like 'Writing for the Planet: Creative Writing as Climate and Ecological Activism', 'The Poetry of Events - Building a Plot', or 'Story Machines: Interactive Texts and Narrative Games'. You will graduate with a substantial portfolio of work and the practical skills needed to pursue publication and a career in the literary world.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA in Creative Writing program offers a comprehensive exploration of literary craft and theory. Students will undertake a compulsory dissertation, allowing for in-depth research and creative development. A wide array of optional modules provides opportunities to specialize in diverse areas such as poetry, prose, screenwriting, publishing, and various literary periods and movements.

1 Compulsory modules

Creative Writing Dissertation Compulsory

2 Optional modules

The Poetry of Events - Building a Plot
Publishing and Power: Black and Asian Literary Networks in the UK
Writing Nature: Ecology, Place, Memoir (Creative Writing)
The Structures of Realism
Writing for the Screen
Image, Shape and Music
Prose Writing Workshop
Writing for the Planet: Creative Writing as Climate and Ecological Activism
Story Machines: Interactive Texts and Narrative Games
Text & Image: Creative Writing
Making Progress? Literature in a Changing Environment
The Cultures of American Modernism
Criticism and Theory: Current Debates
Bodies Politic: Cultural and Sexual Politics in England, 1603-1679
Revival and Return: Using the Past from Pope to Keats
Empire, Decadence and Modernity: Literature 1870-1910
Modernism and Material Culture
Criticism and Theory: Critical and Literary Theory in a Global Context
The Body and Identity
The Literature of Cold War America
World Cinema / World Literature
Publishing and Power: Black and Asian Literary Networks in the UK
Expanding Queerness: Critical Debates in Theory, Literature, Film and Television
Writing Women in the English Middle Ages
Translation and Publishing: New Approaches to Literary Activism
Crossing Medieval Boundaries
Environments of Early Modern Drama
Global Voices: Shakespeare and the Early Modern World

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

39% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,160.00 USD 34,535.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 21,160.00 USD 34,535.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Streatham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationAnimation & Visual EffectsBroadcasting & TelevisionEarly Childhood & Primary EducationGaming & Interactive MediaLive Events & ConcertsMusic & Performing ArtsSecondary & High School EducationTheme Parks & LeisureVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BBC Studios

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

National Trust

University of Southampton

Why Study MA Creative Writing at University of Exeter

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Exeter in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MA Creative Writing at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is necessary.

What English language score do I need for this course?

You can meet the English language requirements through several tests. For instance, a TOEFL score of 100 overall, with specific minimums in each section, is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as author, editor, literary agent, screenwriter, or content creator.

What will I actually study in this course?

  • At the University of Exeter, we don’t just teach you how to write to get published. Our team of internationally acclaimed authors understand that your ambitions, and powers of creative writing, are far greater than that
  • Our modules are designed to enable you to write for better futures, to: promote social justice, protect our planet, support child wellbeing, comfort and entertain, and inspire others to action
  • Experiment in new literary genres, and study and respond to

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Creative Writing program at the University of Exeter has an intake month in September. Be sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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