Loughborough University

What you'll study

This programme combines sustained creative practice with industry-facing modules. Core study typically includes workshop-based modules in fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction and scriptwriting, a Professional Practice unit covering publishing, commissioning, pitching and rights, and a Major Project or extended portfolio of creative work (novel extract, collection, screenplay or long-form non-fiction) supported by a critical/reflective commentary.

Teaching methods include small-group workshops, one-to-one supervision, seminars, masterclasses with visiting industry professionals, and practical skills sessions in editing, sub-editing, digital publishing and multimedia storytelling. Assessment is normally by creative portfolio, reflective statements, project proposals and a short critical essay.

• Creative writing workshops (various genres)
• Major Project / Extended Portfolio with supervision
• Professional Practice: publishing, rights, pitching and contracts
• Editing and editorial projects
• Digital storytelling and multimedia formats
• Workshops with visiting authors, agents and publishers
• Optional placement or industry-linked project

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree (typically a 2:1 honours or equivalent) in English, creative writing, media, or a related discipline. Candidates with a 2:2 plus substantial professional writing experience, published work or exceptional creative potential may be considered.

Application usually requires a written portfolio of creative work (the programme specifies length and genre guidance), a personal statement outlining your proposed project and career aims, and academic references. International applicants should meet the University’s English language requirements (equivalent to common academic test scores), and details of acceptable qualifications are available from admissions.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers across the creative and communication sectors. Typical roles include novelist or short-form writer, scriptwriter for film, television or games, creative-nonfiction author, magazine and book editor, commissioning or development assistant in publishing and broadcast, copywriter, content strategist, communications officer and freelance writing professional.

The programme also provides a strong platform for further study (MPhil/PhD) or for entrepreneurial activity such as founding independent presses, running literary festivals, or developing digital storytelling start-ups. Practical modules and industry contacts help graduates build professional networks, approach agents, and prepare submission-ready manuscripts and proposals.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough combines a supportive, collegiate campus environment with active links to publishing and creative industries. Students benefit from focused small-group teaching, one-to-one supervision for major projects, and regular visiting speakers from across the writing and media sectors. The University’s careers and enterprise services provide practical support for placements, freelance work and self-employment, while collaborations across arts, media and digital departments allow interdisciplinary projects.

Loughborough’s emphasis on employability, practical professional training and a vibrant student community makes it a strong choice for writers who want both to develop their craft and to gain the business and industry skills needed to build a sustainable writing career.