Creative and Critical Writing (with Placement) MA
University of Liverpool, United Kingdom
Creative and Critical Writing (with Placement) MA
University of Liverpool
Creative Writing & English
Program Overview: Creative and Critical Writing (with Placement) MA
The MA Creative and Critical Writing at the University of Liverpool develops your abilities through a combination of creative engagement with prose and drama on writing and placement modules, and a critical study of literature. You will explore how critically-informed creative practice engages with global society, social justice, political and environmental issues, and human rights.
A distinctive feature of this program is its unique placement module, which gives you the opportunity to gain practical experience as a writer in residence at one of the University's partner institutions in Liverpool. Working in locations such as museums and galleries, you will develop professional skills through activities like writing in response to exhibitions or running creative writing workshops.
Liverpool provides a stimulating environment for studying Creative and Critical Writing, with its lively literary events calendar including the Liverpool Literary Festival, connections to local literary partners such as the Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse, and masterclasses with visiting writers. The Department of English is ranked in the top 100 worldwide for English Language and Literature by QS World University Rankings.
Key Program Highlights
- Unique writer-in-residence placement at partner institutions including museums and galleries across Liverpool
- Department of English ranked in the top 100 worldwide for English Language and Literature by QS Rankings
- Access to masterclasses with visiting writers and the annual Liverpool Literary Festival
- Taught by award-winning writers and AHRC/BBC New Generation Thinkers
Curriculum & Modules
The program combines core modules in creative writing with critical literary study and a professional placement. Through modules on contemporary prose and drama/screenwriting, you will develop your writing ability and professional awareness, including skills such as submitting to agents and crafting editorial pitches.
Contemporary Prose Writing
30 CreditsDevelop your prose writing skills through workshops and critical engagement with contemporary fiction. You will refine your creative voice and learn techniques for crafting compelling narratives across various prose forms.
Drama and Screenwriting
30 CreditsExplore the craft of writing for stage and screen, developing your ability to create dialogue, structure dramatic narratives, and understand the conventions of performance-based writing.
Writer in Residence Placement
30 CreditsGain hands-on professional experience as a writer in residence at a University partner institution such as a museum or gallery. Assessment comprises a portfolio of creative work and reflections on the writer-in-residence role.
Critical Approaches to Literature
15 CreditsEngage with key critical and theoretical debates in contemporary literary studies. You will develop a greater theoretical understanding of socially-engaged writing and how creative and critical forms complement one another.
Research Methods in Creative Writing
15 CreditsAcquire essential research skills for creative practice, learning how to integrate scholarly inquiry into your writing process and develop a distinctive approach to creative work.
MA Dissertation / Creative Portfolio
60 CreditsProduce a substantial body of original creative work accompanied by a critical commentary. This capstone project allows you to demonstrate mastery of your chosen genre and the ability to reflect critically on your creative practice.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The MA Creative and Critical Writing welcomes applicants with a strong interest in developing their creative writing practice alongside critical literary study. Applicants should demonstrate a passion for writing and an engagement with contemporary literature in their personal statement.
Academic Requirements
- Minimum Degree Classification2:2 honours degree from a UK university or equivalent international qualification
- Subject BackgroundDegree in English, Creative Writing, or a related humanities discipline is preferred
- Writing SampleA portfolio of creative writing may be required as part of the application
- Personal StatementA statement outlining your learning ambitions and interest in creative and critical writing
- International QualificationsEquivalent qualifications from non-UK institutions are accepted; contact Uni4Edu for equivalency guidance
English Language Requirements
- IELTS6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
- TOEFL iBT88 overall, with minimum scores of Listening 19, Writing 19, Reading 19, Speaking 20
- Pre-Sessional EnglishPre-sessional English courses are available for applicants who do not meet the minimum English language requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of Liverpool offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for postgraduate students. International and UK students may be eligible for merit-based awards and bursaries to support their studies. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on available funding options.
University of Liverpool Postgraduate Merit Scholarship
A merit-based scholarship available to eligible postgraduate taught students at the University of Liverpool, awarded on the basis of academic achievement and potential.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The program emphasises both creative and critical practice, equipping graduates with a broad range of skills valued by employers. The placement module provides direct employability skills and career opportunities through professional experience as a writer in residence, while additional opportunities exist in running literary events through the Centre for New and International Writing and the Liverpool Literary Festival.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Liverpool is a prestigious Russell Group institution with a strong global reputation. It has received a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework and its Department of English is ranked in the top 100 worldwide for English Language and Literature by QS Rankings.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| English Language & Literature | QS World | Top 100 |
| Arts & Humanities | THE World | Top 100 |
| English (Research Impact) | REF 2021 | Top 10 UK |
| Creative Writing | Complete University Guide | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
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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