Research course

Creative Writing by Research

Institution
University of Buckingham · School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Qualifications
MA by research
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Entry requirements

See our general University entry requirements for information on flexible entry, mature students and alternative qualifications.

The standard entry requirements are:

  • A first or upper second-class honours degree from a recognised university (previous experience with Arts and/or Humanities subjects essential) or,
  • a recognised professional qualification with relevant work experience, or a previous publication of creative work.

International Applicants

Find out about our requirements and see useful information for international applicants:

If you are uncertain whether you will be eligible to apply for this course, please contact our Admissions team.

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

The MA in Creative Writing by research offers a valuable opportunity to dedicate yourself to a creative writing project of your choice. This may take various forms, such as a collection of poems, a series of short stories, or a script for a stage play. With the guidance of supervisors and peers, this course will enable you to undertake practice-based research, develop your writing craft, and refine your work to publishable standards.

The course involves the production of both creative and critical work in tandem with one another. It allows you to take risks in the process of developing your creative writing project of choice by starting with the completion of project preliminaries. These include:

  • A creative writing portfolio for which you are encouraged to experiment with different forms and genre
  • A preliminary reflective commentary for which you are asked to critically reflect upon your process and the work in your portfolio
  • An extended research proposal which outlines your plan for your final creative project.

For your final project, you can choose between poetry, prose fiction, drama, creative nonfiction, or a hybrid work. This final submission will respond to a critical enquiry outlined in your extended research proposal and it will include a reflective commentary.

Course Highlights

  • The opportunity both to experiment with different creative writing forms and undertake a more extensive creative writing project.
  • Supportive teaching practices involving one-on-one supervisions, facilitated workshops, and seminars given by visiting practitioners and members of staff.
  • Flexible and autonomous working conditions.
  • An encouraging environment in which to network and discuss your project with other creative writers.
  • The opportunity to work on practice-based research and develop both creative and critical skillsets.

Course breakdown

The MA commences in the September or January of each year, on a full or part-time basis. It takes one year when studying full-time, or two years part-time.

For the MA, full-time attendance on campus is not required, but overseas students in particular, or home students wishing to use libraries intensively, may apply for a room in the University’s accommodation. Alternatively, you can travel in for the teaching days, and your one-to-one sessions with your supervisors can be arranged for any day of the week.

After your course

As this course involves the development of creative and critical skillsets, it is a valuable qualification for those wishing to pursue an academic career, as well as for those wishing to enter creative industries, such as publishing, marketing, entertainment, and theatre.

The programme also provides an ideal grounding for those interested in further study in the form of a Creative Writing or another practice-based PhD. It is also beneficial for a career in writing and for those who wish to become a published novelist or poet, or to work as a journalist, copywriter, or content creator.

Here are just some of the career opportunities and skills that can stem from studying on this course:

Career opportunities

  • Professional writing
  • Technical writing
  • Marketing
  • Publishing
  • Journalism
  • Education
  • Content creation
  • Academia.

Career skills

  • Advanced writing and communication skills
  • Advanced research and critical thinking skills
  • Advanced decision-making and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to show initiative and flexibility in the face of complexity and challenges
  • Ability to receive, apply, and offer constructive feedback
  • Ability to learn autonomously and to work independently
  • Professional skills such as organisation, time-management, and digital skills.

Careers and Employability Support

Our courses strive to effectively combine academic challenge with the transferable skills that will stand you in good stead for future employment. The Buckingham tutorial teaching model means that our students are well prepared as they embark on their careers and future study.

Fees and funding

UK students
From £4,133
International students
From £7,250

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MA by research
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Admissions
Email
info@buckingham.ac.uk
Phone
+44 (0)1280 820227
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