Creative Writing

Entry requirements

Applicants must normally have a first or second class Level 8 honours degree (NFQ or other internationally recognised equivalent) in a relevant or appropriate subject, or equivalent prior learning or experience that is recognised by the University as meeting this requirement. This might include creative work in writing or the arts.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The University of Limerick offers a Master of Arts in Creative Writing, taught by internationally successful authors including our Chair of Creative Writing, Professor Joseph O’Connor (author of the million-selling Star of the Sea), Donal Ryan (The Spinning Heart) and Giles Foden, (The Last King of Scotland). This one-year programme enables students to develop their skills in creative writing through careful consideration of the work of established writers; through study of the elements of a piece of creative writing; through assignments that enable students to master strategies for revision of their work; and through an understanding of the requirements of the submission and publication process. Through coursework students consider the role of plot, characterization, dialogue, and point-of-view in crafting compelling fiction and drama.

Students experience teaching-visits from leading contemporary authors. Our Creative Writing students experience teaching-visits, seminars and readings from outstanding contemporary authors. Recent visitors have included Colum McCann, Claire Keegan, Christine Dwyer Hickey, Colin Barrett, Sara Baume and Pulitzer prize winner Richard Ford.

Students gain practical experience through working on our literary journal The Ogham Stone and in the preparation of their dissertation portfolios. Ireland was the homeland of some of the twentieth century's most accomplished writers, and the city of Limerick has a rich history in creative writing, memorialized in the Frank McCourt museum, and celebrated annually with several literary festivals - the Limerick Literary Weekend; the Eigse Michael Hartnett Poetry Arts and Literary Festival; and Cuisle, the Limerick International Poetry Festival.

Fees and funding

Assessment