At least a 2.1 honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject.
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Choose your own path through the course, focusing either on creative or literary critical writing, or a combination of both.
You’ll work with practising authors, poets, and playwrights – as well as leaders in the field of literary criticism – to develop your own distinctive voice. You’ll develop as a writer, not only in the classroom, but in the world, and you’ll be advised on the routes you can take to publication. Modules with a more academic focus allow you to engage with literary theory and academic studies of influential writers’ work.
Our students have the opportunity to edit and produce the annual university anthology and our close links with Cheltenham Festivals may offer performance opportunities throughout the year.
You’ll be assessed through coursework and presentations.
This highly successful MA in Creative and Critical Writing was one of the first in the UK to offer modules dedicated to the theory and practice of teaching creative writing, and the theoretical and practical analysis of the creative process. These options complement the creative and critical strands of the degree and offer you the chance to become a writer prepared for the modern professional arenas in which you may find yourself.
At least a 2.1 honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject.
Applicants will be considered on an individual basis
You’ll be required to submit a portfolio to evidence your writing. The portfolio should be 3,000 words of creative prose (eg a short story or novel extract) or 12 poems or 30 minutes of dramatic writing in standard format
EU and international students need IELTS 6.0 overall (no less than 5.5 in writing and in any other band) or equivalent.
Please read the entry requirements for your country – and contact our admissions team if you have questions.
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Students usually support themselves through a postgraduate loan, private savings, family support or sponsorship from an employer. For advice and guidance on your funding options, contact the Money Advice team at [email protected] or call 01242 714535.
UoG graduates receive 15% off postgraduate tuition fees. Terms apply.
| Start date | Location | Course code |
Fee (UK) Total fee |
Fee (international) Total fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 2025 | Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham | — | £8,475 | £17,950 |
| Sep 2026 | Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham | — | TBC | TBC |
| Sep 2027 | Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham | — | TBC | TBC |
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International students can benefit from a range of scholarships and bursaries across many undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. |
Find out more | |||
At UoG we create a climate for bravery and growth. We instil confidence in all our students, so you can graduate career-ready and meet your ambitions.
96% of our graduates are in work or further study*, but if you’re not in a job 6 months after graduating we’ll guarantee you 6 months of free support, followed by the offer of a paid internship to kickstart your career – plus we’ll commit to lifetime career coaching. Eligibility conditions apply.
*Graduate Outcomes Survey published 2024 and based on 2021/22 leavers
Discover our promisesElevate your writing with our MA in Creative and Critical Writing. This course is designed to help you hone your writing skills while also providing professional opportunities within the local creative community. Our students have the chance to attend the world-famous Cheltenham Literature Festival, Ledbury Poetry Festival and the Hay Festival of Literature and the Arts, volunteering as event managers and stewards. There’s usually a student showcase event at these events too.
Our graduates have gone onto work in a variety of roles, including published writers, editors at top publications, creative writing educators, and community arts managers.
You’ll study a course taught by published writers who have developed successful careers, in a range of genres.
Our MA in Creative and Critical Writing was one of the first in the UK to offer modules dedicated to the theory and practice of teaching creative writing.
Go the Cheltenham Literature Festival, Ledbury Poetry Festival, the Cheltenham Poetry Festival and The Hay Festival.
Increase your pay potential, specialise in a subject you love, or pursue your passion and switch careers.
UoG alumni can benefit from a postgraduate scholarship discount of 15% off tuition fees.
Discover the benefits of studying a master’s degree.
Explore and collaborate with creatives from across the spectrum. We offer the perfect environment to practice your craft and prepare you to graduate career-ready.
“I’m the author of three novels and I’m now writing a non-fiction book about European history. My first novel, Peace, Love, & Petrol Bombs, was a Sunday Herald Book of the Year for 2011 and it has been recorded as an audio book. My experimental second novel, The Deconstruction of Professor Thrub made the judges’ longlist for the Goldsmith’s Prize. I also write short fiction, and my story The Invitation was shortlisted for the Bridport Prize.”
Michael Johnstone, Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing
“It transformed my life – I knew I wanted to write a book but the MA gave me the time to work, the discipline to work and the technical know-how to transform my life experiences and stories into publishable fiction. I also now run a writing advice website.”
Michael Johnstone, Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing
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