UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH · UNITED KINGDOM
Creative Writing MSc
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- UNESCO World City of LiteratureLocation
- Fiction or PoetrySpecialisations
- Student-led anthology 'From Arthur's Seat'Practical Experience
- Regular industry events and guest writersNetworking
- Top 3 in UK for English Language and Literature (QS 2026)Ranking
- 1-year full-time MScProgram Type
The Creative Writing MSc at the University of Edinburgh is a one-year, full-time postgraduate program designed for aspiring writers. Located in Edinburgh, the world's first UNESCO City of Literature, this program offers dedicated pathways in either fiction or poetry. You will develop your craft within a structured academic setting and a supportive international community. This program combines taught courses with a final dissertation, providing a strong practical focus. You will participate in weekly workshops and craft-based seminars, present your work for peer review, and engage with guest writers and industry professionals. The curriculum also sharpens critical thinking and editorial skills through literature option courses and the production of an extended creative manuscript for your dissertation. Opportunities include contributing to 'From Arthur’s Seat,' the student anthology, and attending an annual publishing event with agents and editors. Edinburgh offers an inspiring environment with a rich literary history, home to the National Library of Scotland, the Scottish Poetry Library, and numerous publishers. The city hosts vibrant literary events, from readings to poetry slams. The university also supports student publications like 'The Student' and 'The Selkie,' and its Writer-in-Residence organises annual writing prizes and talks, making it an excellent place to develop your writing career.
Curriculum
This is a full-time, year-long taught program, beginning in September. You will complete core courses, option courses, and a creative dissertation in your chosen specialisation (fiction or poetry).
- Year 1 (Full-time)
- Core Course (Fiction or Poetry Workshop)
- Core Course (Fiction or Poetry Craft Seminar)
- Option Course
- Creative Dissertation (Fiction or Poetry)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic and English language requirements for the Creative Writing MSc?
- You need a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in any discipline. For English language proficiency, IELTS Academic requires an overall score of 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component, or equivalent.
- How much does the Creative Writing MSc cost?
- International tuition fees for 2026-2027 can be found on the University's programme-specific fee page. Estimated living costs for 2026-2027 are £18,504 per year, covering accommodation, food, and other expenses.
- What is the duration and structure of the programme?
- The Creative Writing MSc is a one-year, full-time taught programme beginning in September. It includes core courses, option courses, and a creative dissertation in either fiction or poetry.
- When is the application deadline and when should I apply for scholarships?
- Applications for the September 2026 intake typically open in October 2025. To be considered for the William Hunter Sharpe Memorial Award and the Creative Writing PG Bursary Award, you must apply by 4 May 2026.
- What are the career prospects after completing this MSc?
- The MSc equips you with advanced writing and critical skills for roles in the literary and creative industries, as well as fields valuing strong communication and analytical abilities.
Entry requirements
UK 2:1 honours degreeor its international equivalent, in any discipline (related subjects like English Literature/Creative Writing are common, but all academic backgrounds are welcome).
Written Work SampleApplicants will be asked to provide a sample of written work for assessment.
IELTS AcademicOverall 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component
TOEFL-iBT (before 21 January 2026)Overall 100 with at least 23 in each component
TOEFL-iBT (from 21 January 2026)Overall 5.0 with at least 4.5 in each component
Oxford ELLTOverall 8 with at least 7 in each component
C1 Advanced (CAE) / C2 Proficiency (CPE)Overall 185 with at least 176 in each component
Trinity ISEISE III with passes in all four components
Oxford Test of English AdvancedOverall 155 with at least 145 in each component
English language requirements apply to all applicants, including UK nationals. You can also meet the requirement with a degree taught and assessed in English or certain professional qualifications.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University's programme-specific fee page (link provided in source) for international tuition fees for 2026-2027.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University's programme-specific fee page (link provided in source) for home tuition fees for 2026-2027.
LivingFor 2026-2027, the estimated average living cost for a postgraduate student in Edinburgh is £18,504 per year (£1,542 per month). This includes accommodation, utilities, food, mobile phone, socialising, and local travel. Exact costs vary based on personal choices and accommodation type. University accommodation averages £931/month, private accommodation £752/month, and private student accommodation £1,249/month.
A 10% graduate discount on tuition fees may be available for University of Edinburgh graduates. No deposit is required for this program. Living costs are estimates and are updated annually, subject to inflation and other factors. Most students fund their studies through a combination of loans, family support, savings, income, employer sponsorship, and scholarships.
How to apply
1. 1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic qualification (a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in any discipline) and English language requirements (e.g., IELTS Academic overall 7.0 with 6.5 in each component).
2. 2. Prepare Supporting DocumentsGather all necessary documents including a personal statement, information about your skills and experience, and a sample of written work (requested during the selection process).
3. 3. Review Application DeadlinesCheck the specific deadlines for the Creative Writing MSc. For scholarship consideration (William Hunter Sharpe Memorial Award and Creative Writing PG Bursary), you should apply by 4 May 2026.
4. 4. Submit Your ApplicationApply online through the University's degree finder. Ensure all information is complete and accurate before submission.
5. 5. Await DecisionAfter applying, you can track your application status. You will receive a decision and instructions on how to accept your offer.
Scholarships
The William Hunter Sharpe Memorial AwardContribution to tuition fees
The Creative Writing PG Bursary Award supported by the Baird Educational TrustContribution to tuition fees
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic and English language requirements for the Creative Writing MSc?
+
You need a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in any discipline. For English language proficiency, IELTS Academic requires an overall score of 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component, or equivalent.
How much does the Creative Writing MSc cost?
+
International tuition fees for 2026-2027 can be found on the University's programme-specific fee page. Estimated living costs for 2026-2027 are £18,504 per year, covering accommodation, food, and other expenses.
What is the duration and structure of the programme?
+
The Creative Writing MSc is a one-year, full-time taught programme beginning in September. It includes core courses, option courses, and a creative dissertation in either fiction or poetry.
When is the application deadline and when should I apply for scholarships?
+
Applications for the September 2026 intake typically open in October 2025. To be considered for the William Hunter Sharpe Memorial Award and the Creative Writing PG Bursary Award, you must apply by 4 May 2026.
What are the career prospects after completing this MSc?
+
The MSc equips you with advanced writing and critical skills for roles in the literary and creative industries, as well as fields valuing strong communication and analytical abilities.