MA CREATIVE WRITING

Program Overview

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The MA in Creative Writing at Maynooth University is a one-year full-time program that combines intensive workshops and seminars with personalized mentoring of individual writing projects. Students develop their voice as writers, enrich their interests with new perspectives, and gain a strong grasp of stylistic approaches. The program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in professional editing, writing, creative industries, and publishing.

Program Outline

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MA in Creative Writing at Maynooth University

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Degree Overview:

The MA in Creative Writing at Maynooth University is a unique program that combines intensive workshops and seminars with personalized mentoring of individual writing projects. This program is designed to guide students in developing their voice as writers, enriching their interests with new perspectives, and equipping them with a strong grasp of stylistic approaches. Through a combination of generative exercises, craft essays, and reflective journals, students will learn tactics for editing and revision while deepening their relationship with their creative process. The program also facilitates the building and development of networks that will offer vital support beyond the completion of the degree.

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Outline:

(20 credits)

• Literature, Creativity, and Society: This module examines the relationship between literature, creativity, and society, exploring questions of representation, identity, and aesthetics.
(10 credits)
• Individual Project Development: This module provides students with personalized mentorship and guidance as they develop their own creative writing projects.
• Creative Dissertation: Students will undertake a substantial creative writing project of their choice, with guidance from a dedicated supervisor.
(30 credits)

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Optional Modules:

Students can choose 10 credits worth of optional modules from a selection offered in the Department of English and across the Faculty of Arts. Some examples of potential modules include:

• Literature modules
• Writing for Screen Media
• Advanced Poetry Workshop
• Creative Non-Fiction: The Art of Storytelling
• Translation and Creative Writing

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Assessment:

Assessment in the MA in Creative Writing program is primarily focused on the development of writing skills and the completion of a successful creative project.

• Creative Prose and Individual Project Development: These modules are assessed through a combination of shorter written assignments, such as craft essays and reflective journals, alongside ongoing feedback from mentors and peers.
• Creative Dissertation: The dissertation is assessed by a dedicated supervisor based on its originality, creativity, and technical proficiency.

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Teaching:

The MA in Creative Writing is taught by award-winning, internationally-renowned writers who are dedicated to fostering a supportive and stimulating learning environment. The program utilizes a blend of teaching methods, including:

• Interactive workshops: These workshops provide students with hands-on experience in various writing techniques and genres.
• Seminars: Seminars offer students the opportunity to discuss their work in detail with faculty and peers, receiving constructive feedback and engaging in critical dialogue.
• Individual mentoring: Students receive personalized guidance and feedback on their writing projects from experienced and dedicated writing mentors.

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Careers:

The MA in Creative Writing equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in various fields, including:

• Professional editing
• Professional writing
• Creative industries
• Publishing
The program also serves as a valuable stepping stone for students who wish to pursue further academic study in the field of Creative Writing, such as a PhD program.

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Other:

• The duration of the MA in Creative Writing program is one year full-time.
Please note that the specific modules offered and the course structure may be subject to change.