University of Leicester

What you'll study

The programme balances workshop-based craft tuition with contextual and professional study. You will take core modules that develop technique in fiction, poetry and creative non-fiction alongside optional modules that allow you to specialise in areas such as novel writing, scriptwriting for stage and screen, or genre writing.

• Workshops and craft modules — small-group workshops that focus on peer feedback, revision strategies and close analysis of craft elements such as voice, structure, dialogue and poetic form.
• Genre and long-form practice — opportunities to concentrate on sustained projects, from novel drafting to a cohesive poetry portfolio or a script treatment.
• Critical and contextual study — modules examining contemporary literary culture, creative writing theory, and the relationship between writing practice and research.
• Professional skills — practical sessions on the business of writing, submission strategies, pitching, digital publishing and working with agents and editors.
• Final creative project — a substantial original creative work produced under supervision and accompanied by a critical commentary reflecting on process and influences.

Teaching methods include seminars, workshops, one-to-one supervision and lectures. Assessment typically combines creative portfolios and reflective/critical essays. The programme is delivered by staff who are active writers and researchers, supported by visiting authors and industry professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree in any subject, typically at a 2:1 level or equivalent; candidates with a 2:2 and substantial relevant professional or creative experience may also be considered. All applicants must submit a writing portfolio demonstrating potential and an accompanying personal statement describing their creative aims.

Typical portfolio guidance includes a sample of prose (short stories or novel extract), a collection of poems, or script pages; exact portfolio expectations are available from the programme admissions team. You will also need academic or professional references and to meet the University’s English language requirements if your first language is not English.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of careers in the creative and cultural sectors. Common destinations include:

• Published fiction or poetry and professional writing careers
• Publishing roles such as editorial assistant, commissioning or literary agency work
• Copywriting, content creation and digital media
• Scriptwriting for theatre, radio, television and film
• Teaching, arts administration, marketing and public relations within cultural organisations
• Further research at doctoral level or study preparing for academic and creative research careers

The programme emphasises employability through workshop experience, industry-facing sessions and opportunities to build a professional portfolio and network.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers a supportive environment where teaching is informed by active research and creative practice. Creative Writing students benefit from staff who are published authors and scholars, regular visiting writers, and a close-knit workshop culture that encourages peer feedback and collaboration.

Leicester’s central campus location and connections with regional literary initiatives and cultural organisations provide opportunities for readings, placements and public engagement. The School’s combination of rigorous critical study and sustained creative practice is designed to help writers refine their craft and prepare for professional life in a range of literary and creative careers.