From 2025, the English and Linguistics programme at Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka, the University of Otago, is offering a new Master of Creative Writing (MCW). The year-long, full-time course enables candidates to engage in a significant piece of original creative writing in the form of fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction or another agreed genre or mix of genres. Study by distance is also possible.
The course will be taught through a combination of group writing workshops and one-on-one supervision by an established writer. It will be supplemented by special events featuring guest writers and public readings.
Places in the course are limited. Admission to the MCW will be by portfolio selection, and students will normally be required to have either of the following:
- An honours degree or equivalent with a B or higher GPA
- A relevant undergraduate degree AND a publication record as a creative writer
Students with no undergraduate degree but extensive writing experience and a strong publication record may be considered.
Making an application
To apply for the MCW, you will need to supply the following:
- CV (max. 5 pages)
- Project proposal (max. 2 pages)
- Creative portfolio (max. 15 pages)
- Referees (x 2)
- Academic transcripts
Please combine all the above documents into one file and send the complete dossier with a brief email cover letter.
Email english@otago.ac.nz
Subject line: Application for MCW
Applications for 2025 close on Friday, 27 September 2024.
For further inquiries
Email english@otago.ac.nz