Massey University

What you'll study

The programme combines intensive creative practice with critical study. Core components typically include advanced workshops in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction or scriptwriting; seminars on craft and form; courses in publishing and the contemporary literary marketplace; and research methods for creative practice. The culminating element is a substantial creative portfolio — for example a novel manuscript, a linked short‑story cycle, a poetry collection or a longform nonfiction project — accompanied by a critical exegesis that situates the work within relevant literary and theoretical contexts.

Delivery options are often flexible, with face‑to‑face workshops, online seminars and one‑to‑one supervision. Assessment is usually a mix of workshop submissions, written assignments, and the major creative project with supporting critical commentary.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification, usually with a strong record in a relevant discipline such as English, creative writing or the humanities. Applicants without a directly relevant degree but with substantial professional writing experience may be considered. A portfolio of creative work is required as part of the application and is a key factor in admission decisions.

Domestic and international applicants must meet Massey University’s general entry standards and English language requirements; international candidates should consult the university for acceptable evidence of English proficiency and any additional documentation required for postgraduate study.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of careers that value advanced writing and critical skills. Typical pathways include professional authorship, poetry and prose publishing, scriptwriting for screen and stage, editorial and publishing roles, literary journalism, communications and content strategy, and roles in arts administration. The programme also provides a solid foundation for further academic study (such as a PhD in creative writing or literature) and for teaching creative writing at tertiary or community levels.

Why study at Massey University

Massey University is known for a practical, workshop‑centred approach to creative writing and a teaching staff of published authors and experienced practitioners. The university offers flexible delivery modes that support both on‑campus and distance students, enabling writers to balance study with professional or personal commitments. Students benefit from connections to New Zealand’s literary community, opportunities for public readings and festivals, access to comprehensive library and digital resources, and individual supervision tailored to professional and scholarly ambitions.