Master of Arts - Creative Writing

University of Roehampton

The MA in Creative Writing degree is designed for ambitious, committed writers who want to hone and develop their writing practice and develop their creative, critical and professional writing skills in preparation for a career in the creative industries. 

The programme explores three main forms of writing: fiction, poetry and fiction for young readers. Students will tailor their degree by selecting modules that align with their interests, with options that include the short story, the novel, lyric and alternative poetry, visual narratives and fiction for young adults.

Whether they have previously studied creative writing or have an entirely different background, or if they are returning to education after a break or continuing straight from an undergraduate degree, students will be supported to develop their personal writing style. On this programme, students will discover how to make their writing more effective, break bad habits and learn how to assess their work professionally. Students will graduate with the skills required for professional practice in the creative writing industries and with an understanding of the necessary marketing skills.

The University of Roehampton will prepare students for their career after they graduate, whether it is as a published writer, working in the professional arts sector, or continuing in academia. The University of Roehampton regularly invitea writers, who have previously included Emma Donoghue and Kazuo Ishiguru, to give guest lectures and workshops. Students will be encouraged to make the most of the University of Roehampton’s connections with the literary world and make professional contacts with publishers and agents. Students will also have opportunities to give readings of their work at soirees, and participate in local literary festivals such as Wimbledon Bookfest and Barnes Children’s Literature Festival.

No matter which modules they select, students will engage with a range of social, cultural and political positions, including writing by BME and LGBTQ+ authors, drawing upon the strengths of the diverse teaching staff. The combination of tradition and innovation in the programme will provide students with ample opportunity to consolidate as well as broaden their writing practices.

As well as creative writing modules, students will also take the Archives module, which will give them practical, hands-on research experience allowing them to explore fully the university library’s collections. Students will also have options to take modules from other master’s programmes in the department such as the Creative Arts in the Community module, which is partly taught at Battersea Arts Centre, and a module from our Publishing MA programme. As part of the degree, students will be able attend literary readings and events, and participate in field trips to enrich their experience. Students will also be invited to attend sessions where they will learn about making a living as a writer, develop their marketing skills, and consider the financial, legal and regulatory aspects of writing.