Introduction to the MA Creative Writing Programme

The University of Limerick's MA Creative Writing programme is designed to provide students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to become successful writers. The programme offers a unique blend of literary analysis, creative writing workshops, and community-based projects, allowing students to develop their writing skills and gain hands-on experience in the publishing industry.

Programme Structure

The MA Creative Writing programme is available on a full-time or part-time basis, with a duration of one year for full-time students and two years for part-time students. The programme consists of a combination of core and elective modules, which are taught during the autumn and spring semesters. Students will also complete a creative writing dissertation in the summer semester.

Full-Time Programme

The full-time programme includes the following modules:

• Creative Writing 1: Develops students' writing skills through the analysis of established writers' works and the understanding of frameworks associated with specific genres.
• Project Development for Creative Writers: Introduces students to the publishing industry and offers the opportunity to work with industry professionals.
• Creative Writers in the Community 1: Provides students with the skills and experience necessary to deliver a community engagement project.
• Elective modules, such as Gender and Sexuality in Irish Writing or Literature, Film, and Human Rights.

Part-Time Programme

The part-time programme is structured over two years, with students completing the same modules as the full-time programme, but at a slower pace.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree with at least a second-class honours, grade 2, in a relevant discipline. A 3,000-word sample of creative writing is also required. The University of Limerick encourages applications from individuals who may not meet the standard entry requirements but can demonstrate the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience.

Fees

The fees for the MA Creative Writing programme are as follows:

• EU students: 8,700 (full-time), 4,500 (part-time) per annum.
• Non-EU students: 19,500 (full-time), 10,300 (part-time) per annum.

Graduate Profile

Graduates of the MA Creative Writing programme have gone on to achieve success in the literary world, with many publishing their work nationally and internationally. Some have also been shortlisted for or won major literary prizes.

Conclusion

The MA Creative Writing programme at the University of Limerick offers students a unique and supportive environment in which to develop their writing skills and gain practical experience in the publishing industry. With its blend of literary analysis, creative writing workshops, and community-based projects, this programme is ideal for those looking to become successful writers.

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Outline:

• Full-time Programme:
• Autumn Semester - Core Modules:
• Creative Writing 1
• Applied Editing 1
• A Weekly Workshop
• Spring Semester - Core Modules:
• Creative Writing 2
• Applied Editing 2
• Writerly Reading: Aspects of Storytelling
• Summer Semester:
• Individual Creative Writing Project with Dissertation Plan
• Part-time Programme:
• Year 1:
• Autumn Semester - Core Module:
• Creative Writing 1
• Spring Semester - Core Module:
• Creative Writing 2
• Autumn Electives (choose 1):
• Literary Modernism
• Creative Writers in the Community
• Spring Semester Electives (choose 1):
• Gender and Sexuality in Irish Writing
• Issues in Modern and Contemporary Poetry
• Literature, Film and Human Rights
• Politics and American Literature
• Literature of Migration
• Post‐Colonial Theory and Literature
• Writing Memoir, Biography and Autobiography
• Feminist Literary Theory
• Textual Constructions of Cultural Identity
• Utopian Theory and Texts
• Public Fiction and Private Life
• Year 2:
• Autumn Semester - Core Module:
• Project Management for Creative Writers
• Spring Semester - Core Module:
• Individual Creative Writing Project
• Summer Semester:
• Dissertation
• Autumn Electives (choose 1):
• Principles of Storytelling
• Literary Modernism
• Gender and Sexuality in Irish Writing
• Literature, Film and Human Rights
• Literature of Migration
• Writing Memoir, Biography and Autobiography

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Teaching:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced and published authors, including:
• Prof Joseph O’Connor (Chair of Creative Writing)
• Donal Ryan
• Rob Doyle
• Prof Sarah Moore Fitzgerald
• The program includes teaching visits and readings from outstanding contemporary authors.
• Students gain practical experience through working on the literary journal The Ogham Stone, meeting publishers, editors, and literary agents, and preparing their dissertation portfolios.

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Careers:

• Graduates of the program have been published nationally and internationally and have won or been short-listed for major literary prizes.
• Potential career paths include:
• Author
• Editor
• Literary agent
• Creative writing teacher
• Arts administrator

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Other:

• The program is open to students from all backgrounds, including those without a primary degree but with equivalent experience in the arts, publishing, bookselling, writing, creativity, or a related activity.
• The program is offered full-time over one academic year or part-time over two years.
• The program is based in the School of English, Irish and Communication at the University of Limerick.

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Part Time: EU - €4,328 per annum Non- EU - €10,100 per annum Full Time: EU - €8,002 Non- EU - €18,800

University of Limerick

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Overview:

University of Limerick (UL) is a public research university located in Limerick, Ireland. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. UL is ranked among the top 3% of universities worldwide and is a leading institution in Ireland for its contributions to research, teaching, and community engagement.

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Services Offered:

UL offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Library:

The Glucksman Library provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.

Student Gateway:

This online portal provides access to student information, course materials, and other important resources.

Accommodation:

On-campus accommodation options are available for students, with a variety of choices to suit different needs and budgets.

Cafés and Restaurants:

The campus has a variety of dining options, including cafes, restaurants, and a student-run Coop.

Sports Facilities:

UL Sport offers a wide range of sports facilities and activities for students, including a state-of-the-art sports arena.

Student Support Services:

The university provides a range of support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UL offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience, with a strong emphasis on student engagement and community involvement. Students can participate in a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, both on and off campus. The university also has a strong focus on sustainability and social responsibility, with initiatives aimed at promoting environmental awareness and community engagement.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, with a focus on research and innovation.

Vibrant Campus Life:

The university provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience, with a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities and social events.

Research Excellence:

UL is a leading research institution in Ireland, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration.

International Focus:

The university has a strong international focus, with a diverse student body and a commitment to global engagement.

Location:

UL is located in Limerick, a vibrant city with a rich history and culture.

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Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of academic programs across seven faculties:

Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as history, law, modern languages, politics, English, Irish, and sociology.

Education and Health Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as physical education, psychology, medicine, education, nursing, and allied health.

Kemmy Business School:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as accounting, finance, economics, management, and marketing.

Science and Engineering:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as computer science, electronic engineering, mathematics, statistics, design, and engineering.

Irish World Academy of Music and Dance:

This academy offers programs in traditional Irish music and dance.

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Other: