University subject profile: creative writing

What you’ll learn
Creative writing is about learning to write creatively and analyse critically at the same time. You will study techniques used by renowned writers to enhance your abilities, while developing your own voice as a writer. Courses may be taught by published authors. Studying the subject gives students a safe and supportive environment in which to grow and flourish as writers – be that in prose, poetry or creative nonfiction.

How you’ll learn
Teaching is a mix of lectures and seminars. Working in small groups helps you hone skills such as self-editing, so you can critique your own work, and close reading so you can get the most from the texts you’ll study. Most courses will also help you produce your own portfolio of creative work. At Royal Holloway, for example, you will be taught by a mix of experts, authors, playwrights and poets. In terms of assessments, most places are 100% coursework, but there are some institutions that do essay assessments. You will submit portfolios covering a range of genres, such as poetry, prose and plays. At London Metropolitan University, students work collaboratively with the theatre, art and photography departments to make a book.

Some courses are taught by acclaimed writers, so it is worth looking at what is on offer. Consider contact hours, too. Students often receive approximately 10 hours of weekly contact time. For every hour spent in class, you would be expected to complete a further four to six hours of independent study.

Entry requirements
At least one A-level in an essay-based arts and humanities subject is expected.

What job can I get?
Creative writing can go far and wide, thanks to the combination of both analytical and creative skills. You may go on to work in publishing, the media, the public sector, education, business or the creative arts. Graduates will also be well placed for a career in advertising or marketing.