MA Creative writing — Victoria Loftus

Victoria studied English literature and creative writing at undergraduate level before returning to Edge Hill University to do her Masters in creative writing

Why did you decide to pursue a postgraduate course?

I always knew that I wanted to do a Masters in Creative Writing, I felt that my writing could develop even further and studying a postgraduate course seemed like the perfect option and a great way to hone my skills so that I could eventually pursue writing as a career. Now that I’m a significant way through my MA in Creative Writing, I can say that deciding to apply has been one of the best decisions I have ever made.

What was the application process like?

I had to log in to the university's website and complete an online form. I didn't have to complete it in one go and was instead able to save it and return to it later. This took away a lot of the stress as it allowed me to take my time and ensure I had filled everything in correctly before sending it off. For the creative writing course you have to provide an example of your writing and attach it to the online form. I sent in some poems I had written over the last few years as well as some pieces I had written during my undergraduate degree. Your potential in writing is a key aspect of the selection process.

Tell us about the course…

The course consists of six modules worth 20 credits and the manuscript (worth 60 credits). We studied four modules before Christmas (having lectures for two modules per evening over two evenings) and then after Christmas one evening was dedicated to the remaining 20 credit modules and the other was for workshopping our manuscript. We had to produce a large manuscript that we would hope to send out to publishers after the course. I produced a poetry manuscript consisting of 30 poems about mental health, for which I was awarded a 1st and have now sent out to a number of publishers.

How does postgraduate life differ to undergraduate?

Postgraduate study has given me a deeper understanding of myself in regard to my writing as well as being able to explore and expand my knowledge and skills in what I was good at. Also, because the group of students on the programme is a lot smaller, it has been even more collaborative than on the undergraduate programme which has been really important, particularly during the last year. We continue to support each other has we have throughout the programme.

What do you hope to do when you graduate?

I am already working as a content writer which I absolutely love, especially as it relates directly to both my undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

What tips would you give to others choosing a Masters degree?

I highly recommend a pursuing a Masters programme, especially if you're thinking about it already. I would advise people to go for something they are interested in and something that intellectually stimulates them, not just something that other people think is best for them or would make them more money. Loving what you study is really important and the best motivator when it comes to facing that blank word document when assessments are due. The MA Creative Writing programme has really allowed me to mature, become more confident in my writing and make so many connections with so many different, influential people.

Find out more

• Discover what you can do with a creative writing degree.
• Take a look at Edge Hill's MA Creative writing.