Creative Writing MSc

Based in the first UNESCO World City of Literature, this one-year, full-time taught masters programme in Creative Writing offers dedicated pathways in fiction or poetry.

Combining taught courses with a final dissertation guided by a supervisor, this programme gives you the chance to work within a structured academic environment and a supportive, international community of writers to hone and sharpen your creative practice.

There is a strong practical element to the programme, helping you develop your creative skills through:

• participating in weekly poetry or fiction workshops
• attending weekly craft-based seminars
• presenting your work for peer discussion
• hearing from guest writers and other professionals on the practicalities of life as a writer

You will also sharpen your critical thinking and editorial skills through:

• reading and discussing published works on literature option courses
• writing a creative dissertation in your chosen form (fiction or poetry)

You will also have the opportunity to work on and contribute to our publication ‘From Arthur’s Seat,’ an anthology of student work.

The taught portion of our programme culminates with the launch of the anthology and our annual publishing event, featuring professionals (agents, editors and festival organisers) from the industry. This event is organised by our Writer-in-Residence, and specifically designed for students on the MSc in Creative Writing. 

From the end of Semester 2 through the summer, you will work independently to produce your dissertation - an extended creative manuscript. You will meet your supervisor at key points for editorial feedback.

Why Edinburgh?

Literature has been taught here for over 250 years, and today, Edinburgh thrives on its designation as the first UNESCO World City of Literature.

The city is home to the National Library of Scotland and the Scottish Poetry Library, and a number of celebrated publishing outlets, from Canongate and Polygon, to Luath Press, Birlinn and Mariscat. The University hosts the prestigious James Tait Black Awards, established in 1919, and is one of the oldest literary prizes in Britain.

Around the city, you will find:

• library readings and bookshop launches
• spoken word gigs
• cabaret nights
• poetry slams

There are lots of opportunities to write and share your work, from 'The Student', the UK’s oldest student newspaper (founded in 1887 by Robert Louis Stevenson), to 'The Selkie', which was founded by Creative Writing students in 2018 to showcase work by people who self-identify as underrepresented.

Our in-house Writer-in-Residence organises the University's annual writing prizes as well as regular talks with authors and literary guests.