Creative Writing

Creative Writing at the University of Auckland offers Students the opportunity to develop their writing talents and explore various forms of storytelling in a dynamic and supportive environment. This programme is designed to nurture emerging writers, enabling them to craft compelling narratives across fiction, poetry, scriptwriting, and creative non-fiction. Students will engage with a diverse range of literary styles and techniques, receive mentorship from experienced writers and faculty, and participate in workshops that foster critical feedback and peer review. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge of literary history and craft with practical writing exercises, encouraging students to refine their voice and develop their unique artistic identity. Throughout the programme, students will have access to extensive resources, including libraries, writing labs, and literary events, to enrich their learning experience. The programme emphasizes both individual creative development and understanding of the publishing industry, preparing graduates for careers as professional writers, editors, teachers, and in related fields. With a focus on innovation, diversity, and storytelling mastery, the Creative Writing programme aims to inspire students to contribute meaningfully to New Zealand’s vibrant literary community and beyond. Graduates will leave with a comprehensive portfolio showcasing their work, along with the skills necessary to succeed in the competitive world of publishing and literary arts.

The MCW is designed to support, inform, and develop your creative practice within a lively, committed and diverse community of other writers. The course is convened by the award-winning novelist and short story writer, Paula Morris.

The programme begins in March each year, and classes end in late October. In early November you submit a manuscript for assessment: a novel, short story collection, full-length work of creative non-fiction, or poetry collection.

There are two weekly classes during semester: the workshop and the seminar.

In the weekly workshop (Wednesdays 3–5pm in 2016), you will submit drafts of stories, poems and novel sections for discussion and feedback, and take part in weekly writing exercises.

The weekly seminar (Thursdays 3–5pm in 2016), is a forum for thinking and talking about writing. In these classes we discuss published work and explore the key issues of technique you need to consider in your work – including point of view, form, narrative structure, characterisation, setting, use of language, dialogue, and detail – in focused craft discussions. The seminar class will also include discussions of editing, publishing, international submissions and adaptation.

The seminar class hosts a range of visitors, including local and international writers; practitioners from the world of film, radio and theatre; and speakers from the publishing and literary arts world. Recent visiting writers have included Ben Okri, Eleanor Catton, Owen Scott, David Mitchell, Colm Toibin, Sebastian Barry and Anita Desai.

MCW students serve as volunteers and MCs at the Auckland Writers Festival, and engage in project work for the New Zealand Book Council, the New Zealand Society of Authors, and other literature-related organisations. They also present their work-in-progress at LOUNGE, a series of public readings presented in Old Government House and open to the public.

Duration

One year, full-time. Entry in Semester One (March) only. Part-time study is not available.
 

Required course of study and assessment

Students writing novels, short stories or creative non-fiction are expected to produce a portfolio of between 40,000 and 80,000 words. Poetry collections should have a minimum of 80 pages.

The examination processes followed are those for a 60 ects research thesis at masters level. The grade for this course rests on the assessment of a single extended piece of work. Your work is marked by two examiners, one internal and one external, a noted published writer in your genre.

Admission requirements

Admission requirements for the Master of Creative Writing are:

• a four-year bachelors degree; or
• bachelors honours degree; or
• a bachelors degree combined with either a professional qualification equivalent to one year’s advanced study or at least three years of relevant professional experience.

The requirement that applicants hold a previous degree may be waived in exceptional circumstances.

Applicants must submit a portfolio of creative writing, including a brief outline of the book they want to work on during their MCW year. Please note that we not operate a rolling admissions process. All applications are reviewed after the closing date of 1 November.

We award two Sir James Wallace Scholarships of $3500 each to incoming students, based on the strength of their application. You do not have to apply for this separately. All successful applicants are considered for a scholarship.

The Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing at The University of Auckland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to cultivate the skills of aspiring writers across various genres and styles. This degree emphasizes the development of creative expression, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of literary traditions and contemporary writing practices. Students engage in both individual and collaborative projects, honing their abilities to craft compelling narratives, poems, scripts, and other creative works. The program offers a diverse range of courses that cover foundational aspects such as storytelling, character development, and stylistic techniques, as well as specialized topics like digital storytelling, poetry, fiction writing, and dramatic writing. Through workshops, seminars, and one-on-one mentorship, students receive personalized feedback to refine their craft and find their unique voice. The curriculum also incorporates literary analysis and contextual studies, enabling students to understand the cultural and historical influences on creative writing. The program prepares graduates for careers in publishing, editing, journalism, screenwriting, and other creative industries. Students have access to a vibrant community of writers and industry professionals, along with opportunities for publishing their work through university outlets and external competitions. The University of Auckland's state-of-the-art facilities and supportive academic staff create an environment conducive to artistic growth and innovation. Overall, this program aims to produce versatile, confident writers equipped with the skills to succeed in diverse literary and media-related fields.