Creative Writing, MA, University of Exeter

the United Kingdom

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Study options for this course

The award	How you will study	Study duration	Course start	Domestic course fees	International course fees
MA	Part-time, Online	24 months	January, May, September	find out	find out

About Creative Writing, MA - at University of Exeter

The Online Creative Writing MA is a flexible, fully online programme delivered by Exeter’s world-renowned English and Creative Writing department. Study at your own pace, from anywhere, while developing your writing, editing, and publishing skills.

You’ll be taught through a mix of online lectures, peer workshops, inspiring writing exercises, and personal tutoring from published writers. You’ll explore what makes great books work, how your own writing connects with wider literary traditions, and how to engage readers on the issues that matter.

Programme structure

The MA Creative Writing course offers practical training in publishing, from pitching and promotion to navigating the industry, with advice from experienced professionals. Whether you write poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction, you’ll follow a structured curriculum that builds strong writing habits and culminates in a substantial final manuscript, ready to submit.

This MA is ideal for writers seeking expert mentorship, the support of a vibrant community, and clear steps towards publication.

To complete the full MA, you need to take all the modules in the list below. The modules are all standalone and can be taken in any order, as they are all online. The Manuscript module is offered every term after the first full cycle of taught modules.

Learn more about Creative Writing, MA - at University of Exeter

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Entry requirements

To apply, you should have a 2:2 honours degree or higher in a relevant subject area, such as English Literature, American Studies, Creative Writing, Film Studies, Television and Media, Drama, History, Classics and Ancient History, Cultural Studies and Postcolonial Literatures.

We will also welcome your application if you have a different academic background, but have other relevant experience. If so, we may request a short writing sample of 2-3,000 words of academic or creative prose or three to four poems.

Entry requirements for international students

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course.

The required test scores for this course fall under Profile E.

Fees, Funding and Scholarships at University of Exeter

The University of Exeter invests heavily in scholarships to support top international students. These include the Exeter Excellence Scholarships, which are awarded to academically gifted and ambitious students from around the world, as well as country-specific scholarships for students applying from certain regions.

More information on the University’s international scholarships can be found here.

To search all available scholarships, please use the University’s funding database.

Student reviews of University of Exeter

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Ernest, from Ghana, studying MSc Sustainable Business Management

“The student support provided by the University is exceptional and most importantly the campus in Penryn is beautiful and blessed with many green spaces. My decision to study here was further solidified when I was awarded the Green Futures scholarship. This scholarship has played a major role in supporting my academic journey, by offering me stability to focus on my studies in order to achieve my goals.

“Since arriving on campus, it has been nothing but an incredible experience. I have had the opportunity to interact and work in teams with students from diverse backgrounds with a variety of goals. Academic staff are always willing to lend a helping hand when needed and the career services have been invaluable, offering great advice on job applications.”

Erica, from the Philippines, studying LLM Law

“I am currently the Vice President of the Filipino Society and I am proud that I am able to represent my background and heritage at the University. Exeter offers numerous opportunities for us to share our culture, such as the popular Spring Festival celebrations and the ASEAN Spring Ball, which I believe is incredibly important. There is a strong sense of community at Exeter and it is something I truly appreciate while being here.

“In my first year I lived on campus and shared a flat with six people. I wasn't extremely keen on the nightlife scene so I was a bit worried about what my new flatmates would be like in terms of partying/drinking. Luckily though, my accommodation was a ‘quiet flat’ and a lot of us had similar personalities, which allowed me to settle in quickly and feel more at ease. My entire block only consisted of six flats and we were all really sociable and ended up being very close, and I am still friends with a lot of them now.”

Sandeep, from India, studying MSc Data Science

“I did struggle with a few assignments at first. Once, I got completely stuck and so reached out to Dr. Phill after a lecture. He was helpful and even sent me more tips via email afterward.

“One of the biggest things that surprised me here is how different the teaching style is compared to India. Back home, it’s mostly theoretical, with classes from morning till evening and exams twice a year. Here, it’s so much more flexible. Lectures aren’t every day, and they’re more like discussions or seminars. The assignments and quizzes are more frequent and keep you on your toes, which really helps with self-learning.

“For anyone planning to come here, my advice is simple: if you’re curious and have a mindset of learning every day, Exeter is a fantastic place. Every day here feels like an opportunity to grow and challenge yourself.”