Creative Writing (MLitt)
University of Aberdeen Campus, United Kingdom
Master of Letters (MLitt) in Creative Writing
University of Aberdeen
Creative Writing
Program Overview: MLitt Creative Writing at Aberdeen
The MLitt in Creative Writing at the University of Aberdeen is a taught postgraduate programme designed to offer you a constructive, highly supportive learning environment in which to develop your writing and creative potential. You will be introduced to the processes and challenges involved in producing creative work of publishable quality, whether in poetry, fiction, creative non-fiction prose, or screenwriting.
You are taught by a team of widely published creative writers including award-winning poets, fiction writers, and non-fiction filmmakers. The programme can be taken as a stand-alone one-year full-time or two-year part-time Master's degree, or as a first step towards an MPhil or PhD in Creative Writing.
Founded in 1495, the University of Aberdeen is Scotland's third oldest university and the fifth oldest in the UK, attracting a diverse international community of over 15,000 students from more than 130 countries. The programme is housed within the School of Language, Literature, Music and Visual Culture, which is recognised as a leading centre for the study of literature, language, and creative writing.
Key Program Highlights
- Taught by award-winning, widely published poets, fiction writers, and filmmakers
- Covers poetry, prose fiction, creative non-fiction, and screenwriting
- Culminates in a 12,000-15,000 word creative folio dissertation
- Can serve as a foundation for MPhil or PhD research in Creative Writing
Curriculum & Modules
The MLitt Creative Writing curriculum combines core creative writing workshops with elective courses drawn from creative writing and English literature. Core courses provide you with the necessary grounding for personal creative development and self-reflective skills for successful preparation of a portfolio of work. Assessment methods vary by course and include written exercises, oral presentations, and folios of poetry or prose.
Poetry Workshop
30A core creative writing option focusing on the craft and technique of writing poetry. Students develop their poetic voice through intensive workshop sessions, peer feedback, and guided exercises, culminating in a folio of original poems.
Prose Fiction Workshop
30A core creative writing option exploring the art of fiction writing, including short stories and novel excerpts. Students engage in workshop-based learning to refine narrative technique, character development, and voice.
Screenwriting: The Narrative within the Frame
30This course investigates different forms of scriptwriting across historical periods, considering narrative form and content as shaped by storytelling devices and structures. Students develop approaches to visualising film narratives through seminars, workshops, and screenings, culminating in a scriptwriting folio.
Writing the Self
30A hybrid English and Creative Writing course that explores autobiographical and personal forms of writing. Students examine the relationship between lived experience and creative expression across multiple literary genres.
Research Skills and Methods
15A compulsory module for all MLitt students that develops essential academic and research skills. Students learn methodological approaches relevant to postgraduate-level study in the arts and humanities.
Creative Writing Dissertation Folio
60The culminating element of the MLitt programme, requiring the submission of a 12,000-15,000 word folio of original creative work. Students work independently under faculty supervision to produce a substantial body of publishable-quality writing.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
The MLitt Creative Writing welcomes students of all ages, nationalities, and experiences. No prior knowledge or experience in creative writing or publishing is assumed, though a genuine passion for writing is essential. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, your single point of contact for guidance and support throughout the admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA good first degree (typically 2:2 or above for UK applicants) in any Humanities discipline
- Creative Writing Sample3 to 6 poems, or a prose sample of at least 2,000 words
- Non-Standard QualificationsApplicants with non-standard qualifications are welcomed and encouraged to apply
- ReferencesNot required at application stage; may be requested by academic selector in certain cases
- Work ExperienceNot required; the programme attracts students from diverse professional and personal backgrounds
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall 6.5 (with minimum 5.5 in Listening, Reading, Speaking; 6.0 in Writing)
- TOEFL iBTOverall 90 (contact Uni4Edu for component requirements)
- PTE AcademicOverall 62 (contact Uni4Edu for component requirements)
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of Aberdeen offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support postgraduate students. International students in particular benefit from automatic and competitive awards. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised advice on maximising your funding options.
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
GBP 8,000All eligible self-funded international postgraduate Master's students automatically receive this scholarship, applied directly as a reduction to tuition fees. No separate application is required.
Alumni Postgraduate Scholarship
20% tuition fee discountUniversity of Aberdeen graduates are eligible for a 20% discount on postgraduate tuition fees. This can be combined with other funding sources — contact Uni4Edu for details.
External Scholarships and Bursaries
VariesA range of external scholarships, government-funded loans, and charitable bursaries may be available depending on your nationality and circumstances. Uni4Edu can help identify and apply for relevant funding opportunities.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MLitt Creative Writing programme are well-fitted for work across the creative industries and beyond. Many go on to build careers in publishing, journalism, advertising, broadcasting, and literary agency, while others pursue further academic research at MPhil or PhD level. There is also a growing demand for English teachers with a track record in creative writing skills.
Potential Career Paths
Sectors & Employers Hiring Graduates
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Aberdeen is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United Kingdom and globally. Founded in 1495, it is Scotland's third oldest university and holds strong positions across multiple international and national league tables, reflecting its continued excellence in education and research.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts & Humanities | QS World Rankings | #279 |
| Creative Writing | National Recognition | Top in Scotland |
| English Language & Literature | Research Excellence | Top 2 in UK for research output |
| Student Satisfaction | National Student Survey | 3rd in Scotland, Wales & N. Ireland (2025) |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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