Creative Writing MA

Program Overview

The MA in Creative Writing at UCC equips students with the writing techniques, critical skills, and industry knowledge necessary to pursue careers in writing and publishing. Through workshops, mentorship, and connections with published authors, the program fosters a supportive environment for developing creative potential and preparing for success in the literary world.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MA in Creative Writing at UCC aims to equip students with the tools and critical skills necessary to write their own books and pursue careers in writing and publishing. It provides a supportive environment for students to develop their creative potential and connect with a community of writers.

Outline:

The MA in Creative Writing is a one-year full-time or two-year part-time program. It is divided into two parts:

Part I (50 credits):

• EN6036 The Business of Writing (10 credits): This module focuses on the professional aspects of creative writing, including work placements and insights from visiting speakers (writers, agents, and publishers).
• Plus choose 40 credits from the following:
• EN6031 Poetry I (10 credits):
This module explores the fundamentals of poetry writing.
• EN6032 Fiction Workshop: Serving the Idea (10 credits): This module focuses on developing fiction writing skills, emphasizing the importance of serving the idea.
• EN6033 Writing the Self: Fiction & non-Fiction (10 credits): This module explores the intersection of personal experience and creative writing, encompassing both fiction and non-fiction forms.
• EN6042 Creative Writing Workshop (5 credits): This module provides a practical space for students to develop their writing skills through workshops and feedback.
• EN6057 Writing for Other Media (5 credits): This module explores writing for various media beyond traditional literary forms.
• EN6060 Poetry II: Mythology & Contemporary Poetry (10 credits): This module delves into the relationship between mythology and contemporary poetry.
• EN6061 Poetry Workshop (5 credits): This module provides a dedicated space for poetry writing and development.

Part II:

• EN6040 Dissertation in Creative Writing (40 credits): This module culminates in the production of a substantial piece of creative writing, accompanied by a critical reflection on the writing process.

Assessment:

Students are assessed continuously throughout the program, submitting creative work and commentaries on their writing practices.

Teaching:

The MA in Creative Writing is taught on Mondays and Tuesdays during the Autumn and Spring Semesters (September to March). The program involves a mix of seminars, workshops, placements, and writing practice. Students engage with published authors and publishing professionals, fostering a strong connection to the literary community.

Careers:

The MA in Creative Writing provides a foundation for a variety of writing and publishing careers, including:

• Authorship across various forms and styles
• Journalism
• Teaching
• Publishing
• Arts administration

Other:

The program emphasizes the importance of reading and writing as intertwined acts, recognizing the need for both writers and readers in the world. It fosters a lifelong relationship with writing and encourages students to explore their creative potential fully. The program also boasts a strong connection to the Irish literary tradition, with notable writers associated with UCC, including Frank O'Connor, Sean O'Faolain, Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill, and John Montague. The School of English hosts an annual Writer-In-Residence program, featuring prominent writers, and a reading series that showcases renowned authors.