University
University of AucklandMaster of Creative Writing MCW
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Master's Degree
Duration
1 year
Next start date
Expected Jul 2026
Campus
City Campus
Summary
The MCW is for writers working on a large-scale creative writing project: a novel, short story collection, full-length work of creative nonfiction, or poetry collection.
The programme is convened by the award-winning fiction writer and essayist Paula Morris. Selina Tusitala Marsh, a former Poet Laureate, co-supervises poets in the programme.
Each week writers meet for both workshops and seminars. Our visitors include local and international writers; practitioners from the world of film, radio and theatre; and speakers from the publishing and literary arts world.
Recent visiting writers include Airini Beautrais, Teju Cole, Michel Faber, Aminatta Forna, Stephanie Johnson, Karl Ove Knausgaard, Elizabeth McCracken, Amy McDaid, Frankie McMillan, Karlo Mila, Ben Okri and Ngugi wa Thiong'o.
Entry criteria
The MCW is a highly competitive programme.
You should have a book project in mind or already underway and demonstrate a clear creative focus and accomplishment in your chosen genre.
To enrol in a MCW you need to have completed one of the following at a recognised university (or similar institution):
- A four-year bachelors degree
- An honours degree
- A three-year bachelors degree, and a professional qualification in writing equivalent to one year of postgraduate study or at least three years of professional experience in writing
Professional experience can include previously published creative writing, working in a field involving writing such as journalism or copywriting, involvement in writers' groups or participation in writing events.
You will also need to submit a portfolio of creative writing that is judged by the programme director to be of sufficient standard for entry into the programme.
English language requirements
If you are an international applicant whose first language is not English you will need to provide evidence of your English proficiency.
You will require an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 with no bands less than 6.0. See alternative English language requirements.
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