The Master of Professional Writing at the University of Waikato is a postgraduate Masters degree designed for aspiring writers who want to bridge the gap between creative expression and professional industry practice. As the only qualification of its kind in New Zealand, this programme addresses the growing demand for skilled communicators who can navigate diverse fields, including promotional writing, advertising, digital media, and scholarly publication. You will explore the nuances of professional communication while refining your craft, making this course ideal if you are seeking to advance your career in publishing, media, or creative industries through a research-led, practice-based academic framework.
Studied full-time on campus over 18 months, your experience will be defined by a core workplace-readiness paper complemented by a range of elective subjects. You will work alongside award-winning authors and industry experts, with opportunities to undertake a professional writing internship or receive guidance from an on-campus writing mentor. Depending on your focus, you may produce a creative writing thesis or complete specific research-based papers to build your portfolio. You will graduate with the advanced technical skills and professional networks necessary to pursue roles as a professional editor, publisher, copywriter, or creative practitioner.