MA Creative Writing at University of Derby

Programme overview

100% of students said that they were overall satisfied with this course, according to the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey, 2021. "The programme continues to provide students with the opportunity to engage in modules that are at once challenging and nurturing, and to develop their skills as writers across a wide range of contexts and in close communication with a clearly dedicated team of staff.

Faculty: College of Health and Humanities | Department: English, Creative Writing and Publishing | Duration: Full-time: 1 year, Part-time: 2 years | Study mode: full-time (part-time also available) | Intake: September, January | Location: Derby, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

The programme offers the flexibility to study in more than one writing form or genre. The teaching method encourages a gradual specialisation over the three trimesters.

Career pathways

Our programme is unique in being orientated towards your future as a writer whilst pushing you creatively and conceptually. Beyond working as a writer and an arts professional, you can consider several other options, such as freelancing or setting us a business in the arts, and your tutors and the University Careers and Employment Service will be happy to explore these with you.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

The entry requirement to this programme is a good honours degree (1st or 2:1) in any subject, or its international equivalent. Applications may be considered if you have a 2:2 honours degree and/or can demonstrate significant experience with creative writing or related industry experience or aptitude. You are expected to send a small sample of your writing, 1,000 words maximum along with your application,; The university welcomes applications from every sector of society. Depending on your qualifications, experience and your writing sample, you may be invited to attend an informal interview before being offered a place. The interview provides an opportunity to discuss the course, and what will be expected of you during it.; While a good, competent all-round standard of English is expected, if English is not your first language you will need to have passed the International English Language Teaching System (IELTS) at the overall level IELTS 6.5, including a minimum score of 5.5 in each test category.

Domestic applicants: GBP 9,720 for the whole programme (2026/27). Full-time fee for the full course; UK full-time fees paid within one academic year are rounded down to the nearest £50 if applicable Source

International applicants: GBP 17,500 for the whole programme (2026/27) Source

Intake: September, January

Duration: Full-time: 1 year, Part-time: 2 years

Apply through the official page: https://www.derby.ac.uk/services/admissions/apply-online/?section_id=2397

Explore more study programmes

Arts & Humanities