MPhil Creative Writing

The MPhil Creative Writing at Newcastle University is a research-based program that allows students to explore and develop their creative writing in a highly supportive and intellectually stimulating environment. This two-year, full-time (or part-time equivalent) program allows students to produce a substantial body of original creative work—whether in the form of fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction—while being guided by experienced mentors. Alongside their creative work, students are encouraged to engage with critical theory and research in literature, which deepens their understanding of the cultural, historical, and theoretical frameworks that shape writing today. The program offers a combination of independent research, creative writing workshops, and one-on-one supervision to ensure that students receive tailored guidance and support throughout their journey.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MPhil Creative Writing program is structured to allow for the development of both creative skills and critical thinking. Students work on crafting a substantial piece of creative writing, whether it is a novel, collection of poetry, short stories, or creative nonfiction. The program offers opportunities for students to study literary theory and research methodology, providing them with the tools needed to critically assess and understand their own creative work. Along with their independent writing projects, students are encouraged to attend workshops and seminars where they can receive feedback from peers and tutors, engage in discussions about contemporary writing, and refine their writing practice. This combination of creative and critical engagement helps students develop as both writers and scholars, ready to make a significant contribution to the literary world.

Research Focus: The MPhil Creative Writing program at Newcastle University is deeply embedded in the university’s broader research culture. It is connected to the university’s Centre for Creative Writing, which fosters a vibrant community of writers and researchers engaged in both practice-based and theoretical writing research. Students are encouraged to develop their creative work through the lens of contemporary critical research and to contribute to the ongoing conversations about the role of writing in society. The program’s research focus includes exploring literary forms, narrative techniques, storytelling traditions, and issues of identity, politics, and culture in creative writing. Students are given the freedom to explore their own research interests, but they are also supported by faculty members who are active in the writing and academic communities, ensuring that students’ work is both innovative and grounded in current literary research.

Industry Engagement: Newcastle University is deeply connected to the literary and creative industries, providing students with numerous opportunities for professional development and industry engagement. The MPhil Creative Writing program benefits from the university’s strong relationships with publishers, literary agents, writers, and media outlets, providing students with a wealth of networking opportunities. The university regularly hosts events, including author talks, workshops, and literary festivals, where students can interact with industry professionals and gain insight into the publishing process. Students also have access to opportunities for internships, placements, and collaborations with publishers and literary organizations, further bridging the gap between academia and the professional world. The program ensures that students are not only developing their creative writing skills but are also equipped to succeed in the publishing industry.

Global Perspective: Newcastle University has a truly global perspective, attracting students from across the world and fostering an inclusive learning environment. The MPhil Creative Writing program encourages students to engage with literature from different cultural and global contexts, helping them to develop a broader understanding of storytelling traditions and practices worldwide. Students can also participate in international literary events and connect with writers and scholars from around the world through the university’s global research partnerships. This international outlook enriches the student experience and prepares graduates for the global literary marketplace, equipping them with the skills to engage with diverse audiences and tackle universal themes in their 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 60% 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, with at least 19 in Listening, 20 in Reading, 22 in Speaking, and 20 in Writing.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 70 with no individual score below 65.
• 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 meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions

Newcastle University in the UK offers a range of scholarships to international students, providing them with financial support to pursue their studies. These scholarships aim to attract talented and academically outstanding students from around the world.  

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships: These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded to exceptional international students who have demonstrated academic excellence. The scholarships cover a partial tuition fee reduction.

International Family Discounts: Newcastle University offers a family discount scheme where siblings or married couples who are both studying at the university can receive a tuition fee reduction.

GREAT Scholarships: Newcastle University participates in the GREAT Scholarships program, which is a joint initiative by the British Council and UK universities. These scholarships are available for students from specific countries and cover full or partial tuition fees.

Chevening Scholarships: Newcastle University is a Chevening Partner, and eligible students can apply for the prestigious Chevening Scholarships, which are funded by the UK government. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances.

Country-specific Scholarships: Newcastle University offers a range of scholarships specifically for students from certain countries. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria defined by the funding organization.

Research Scholarships: Newcastle University offers research scholarships for international students undertaking a Ph.D. or research-based master's degree. These scholarships often include a stipend to cover living expenses in addition to tuition fee support.

Postgraduate Scholarships: Newcastle University provides various scholarships for international students pursuing postgraduate studies. These scholarships may be discipline-specific or open to students from any field of study.

Graduates of Newcastle University's MPhil Creative Writing program are well-prepared for a range of enriching and impactful career paths within the world of literature, publishing, academia, and the creative arts. 

Author or Poet: Graduates can pursue careers as published authors, novelists, poets, or playwrights, creating original and compelling works that resonate with readers and audiences.

Creative Writing Instructor: Many graduates choose roles as creative writing instructors, teaching and mentoring aspiring writers at schools, universities, workshops, and community centers.

Literary Critic or Analyst: Graduates can specialize in literary criticism, working as reviewers, analysts, or scholars who contribute to the interpretation and understanding of literary texts.

Editor or Proofreader: With a strong foundation in creative writing, graduates can work as editors or proofreaders for publishing houses, literary magazines, or online platforms.

Literary Agent: Graduates can become literary agents, representing authors and their works to publishers and helping to shape the trajectory of literary projects.

Researcher: Opportunities exist in academia, allowing graduates to become researchers or scholars, contributing to the exploration of creative writing theory, history, and analysis.

Freelance Writer: Graduates can work as freelance writers, contributing articles, essays, or creative pieces to a variety of publications, websites, and media outlets.