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MA CREATIVE WRITING
- Qualification
- Master Of Arts Degree
- CAO/MU Apply code
- MHK84
- Award Type and NFQ level
- TAUGHT MASTERS (9)
- Study Mode
- Full time
- Closing Date
- 27 August 2027
Overview
The MA in Creative Writing combines workshops and seminars with one-on-one mentoring of writing projects. Students may take optional modules in literature or other creative modules from across the Faculty, such as Writing for Screen Media. Assessment is through shorter pieces of writing, such as craft essays and reflective journals, and a longer project. The MA, taught by award-winning, internationally-renowned writers, will focus on guiding each student to further develop their voice as a writer, as well as to enrich their existing interests as a writer with new perspectives and a grasp of stylistic approaches. Tactics for editing and revision will be taught in tandem with generative exercises and practices aimed at deepening each student’s relationship to their creative process. Students will have the opportunity to build and develop networks which will sustain their writing practice beyond the MA degree.
Course structure
Duration: 1 year full-time
Students take compulsory modules in Creative Prose (combined 20 credits), Literature, Creativity, and Society (10 credits) and Individual Project Development, which runs across two semesters (combined 20 credits). The creative dissertation (30 credits) is undertaken in the spring and summer (semester 2). Students take 10 credits in optional modules from a selection offered in the Department and across the Faculty, including literature modules and Writing for Screen Media.
Disclaimer
The modules below are indicative of the content associated with this course of study.
The modules are subject to change as the curriculum is revised and reviewed annually.
Important: The information on this page is for prospective students, MU current students and staff should use Programme Directory.
Careers after your Masters
The skills gained in the MA equip students for careers in fields such as professional editing, professional writing and the creative industries.
For some students, the MA serves as essential preparation for a PhD in Creative Writing.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8) (or equivalent) with a minimum of a second-class honours, grade 1 (2:1) in a cognate discipline. Applicants should hold a subject mark of a second-class honours, grade 1 (2:1) or equivalent in English. Applicants with a second-class honours, grade 2 (2:2) may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
If you do not meet the standard entry requirements then you may be eligible to apply under the University's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy. Please click here for further information.
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here.
How to apply
Applications must be made via the MU Apply portal. Please click here to start your application.
When making your application, please ensure you prepare any documents listed below. You may be required to submit documents in two stages. You will be required to upload and submit the following documents with your application:
- Full academic transcripts for all semesters/ years completed to date
- Graduation Certificate if you have graduated
- A copy of your passport
- Up to date CV
You will be required to upload the following documents after you submit your application:
- Creative Writing Sample: 5-10 pages of prose OR 4-6 poems
- A short essay (800 words) exhibiting engagement with/critique of a piece of fiction, non-fiction or poetry
- Personal Statement
If English is not your first language, you may be required to upload evidence of English language proficiency. For information please click here.