MA Creative Writing

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

• Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of  50 to 55% or equivalent.
• English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 51.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that entry requirements may vary across different programs and courses. Additionally, meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as the number of available places and competition for certain courses.

The University of Essex offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to assist students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward academic excellence, promote diversity and inclusion, and provide assistance to those facing financial challenges.  

1. Academic Excellence Scholarships: The university offers scholarships to outstanding students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements. These scholarships are typically merit-based and provide financial support towards tuition fees or living expenses.
2. International Scholarships: The University of Essex provides scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to attract and support talented students from around the world. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary, and they may cover a portion of tuition fees or provide assistance with living expenses.
3. Subject-specific Scholarships: Some departments and schools within the university offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. These scholarships are often awarded to students with exceptional academic records or those who demonstrate a strong commitment to their field of study.
4. Access and Participation Scholarships: The university is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. It offers scholarships and financial support to students from underrepresented backgrounds, including those from low-income families or individuals who are the first in their family to attend university.
5. Government-funded Scholarships: In addition to internal scholarships, the University of Essex provides information and guidance on scholarships and funding opportunities offered by external organizations and government agencies. These scholarships may be available to students based on factors such as nationality, field of study, or research interests.
6. Sports Scholarships: The university recognizes the importance of sports and offers scholarships to talented athletes who demonstrate exceptional sporting abilities. These scholarships provide financial support along with access to sports facilities, training programs, and dedicated support services.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes may change over time. 

Graduates of the MA Creative Writing program possess refined writing skills, a deep understanding of storytelling techniques, and the ability to critically analyze and revise their work.

1. Writing and Publishing: Graduates can pursue careers as professional writers, working on novels, short stories, poetry collections, or creative non-fiction. They may also explore opportunities in freelance writing, content creation, or journalism. Additionally, graduates may consider roles in publishing, literary magazines, or literary agencies, contributing as editors, manuscript assessors, or literary agents.

2. Teaching and Education: Graduates can pursue teaching careers, sharing their knowledge and passion for creative writing with others. They can become creative writing tutors, writing workshop facilitators, or English language educators in schools, colleges, or community organizations. Some graduates may choose to pursue higher education and become creative writing lecturers or professors.

3. Arts and Cultural Industries: Graduates can work within the arts and cultural industries, such as theater companies, film production houses, or advertising agencies. They may contribute as scriptwriters, copywriters, content creators, or creative consultants, utilizing their storytelling and creative skills in various media.

4. Literary Events and Festivals: Graduates can engage in organizing and curating literary events, book festivals, or writing workshops. They can work in event management, programming, or public relations roles, promoting literature, and supporting emerging writers.

5. Creative Industries: Graduates can explore roles in the broader creative industries, such as content creation for digital platforms, marketing and communications, or digital media production. Their ability to craft compelling narratives and engage audiences through written content is highly valued in these fields.

6. Further Study and Writing Residencies: Graduates may choose to pursue further study at the doctoral level, undertaking research in creative writing or related fields. They can also apply for writing residencies or fellowships, which provide dedicated time and space to work on their own writing projects.