MA/PGDip Creative Writing

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. You will tailor your degree by selecting modules that align with your interests, with options that include the short story, the novel, lyric and alternative poetry, visual narratives and fiction for young adults.

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

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

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

As well as creative writing modules, you will also take the Archives module, which will give you practical, hands-on research experience allowing you to explore fully the university library’s collections. You 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 your degree you will be able attend literary readings and events, and participate in field trips to enrich your experience. You will also be invited to attend sessions where you will learn about making a living as a writer, develop your marketing skills, and consider the financial, legal and regulatory aspects of writing.