Master of Creative Writing

Improve your skills in fiction, non-fiction, poetry and other forms of writing. Gain an understanding of the theories and histories of writing and develop the core skills that will allow you to structure, write and edit write at an advanced level.

We proudly offer Australia’s most research-intensive creative writing program, built on a commitment to integrate creative writing and critical reading. Our program encourages diversity and experimentation to support your ideas and ambitions: we'll help you find, and develop, your literary voice.  

Studying with us also means gaining access to Sydney’s literary life. You'll be exposed to a ceaseless calendar of readings, performances, major cultural events, and myriad professional guests.

Commonwealth Supported Places

Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) are available for postgraduate study for eligible domestic students. This means that your course fees are subsidised by the Australian Government and you pay a student contribution amount (SCA). CSPs are limited in number and are allocated based on academic merit.

Admission to candidature for the Master of Creative Writing (1.5 years full-time) requires:

• a bachelor's degree with a minimum credit (65%) average calculated over the whole degree, from the University of Sydney, including a major in a relevant subject area in the humanities or social sciences, or an equivalent qualification; or
• completion of the requirements for the embedded Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing with a minimum credit (65%) average, or an equivalent qualification.

Portfolio

All applicants for the Master of Creative Writing must also include a portfolio of 1,500 to 3,000 words of prose writing or 10 to 15 pages of poetry with their application.

Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have completed previous studies in a related area or have relevant work experience, you can reduce the length of your studies or receive credit based on the Recognition of Prior Learning criteria below.

Admission to candidature for the Master of Creative Writing (1 year full-time) requires: 

• an Honours degree in a relevant discipline; or
• relevant professional work experience and a bachelor's degree with a minimum credit (65%) average or an equivalent qualification.

If you do not meet the requirements listed above for direct entry to the Master’s degree, you may be able to enter via a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in the same subject area and upgrade to the Master’s after successful completion of the shorter course