MA in Creative Writing

The MA in Creative Writing at University College Cork is designed to give students the tools to write the book they want to write, whether it's a collection of poetry, essays, a novel, or a memoir. The program aims to introduce students to the publishing industry and prepare them for a variety of career options, including publishing and the creative arts.

Course Outline

The MA in Creative Writing is a one-year full-time or two-year part-time program that consists of two parts: Part I (50 credits) and Part II (40 credits).

• Part I (50 credits):
  • EN6036 The Business of Writing (10 credits)
  • Plus choose 40 credits from the following modules:
    • EN6031 Poetry 1 (10 credits)
    • EN6032 Fiction Workshop: Serving the Idea (10 credits)
    • EN6039 Publishing for Authors & Editors (5 credits)
    • EN6042 Creative Writing Workshop [Writer-in-Residence] (5 credits)
    • EN6056 Reading the Novel Creatively (5 credits)
    • EN6057 Writing for Other Media (5 credits)
    • EN6059 Personal Narrative & Creative Non-Fiction (10 credits)
    • EN6060 Poetry 2: Narrative Poetry (10 credits)
    • EN6061 Poetry Workshop (5 credits)
    • EN6064 Fiction Workshop 2: Boundaries of Form (10 credits)
• Part II:
  • EN6040 Dissertation in Creative Writing (40 credits)

Course Practicalities

The MA in Creative Writing is taught on Mondays and Tuesdays during the Autumn and Spring Semesters. Seminar hours are approximately 6-8 per week, and reading hours/writing assignments are likely to take a further 8 hours per week. The course involves a mixture of seminars, workshops, placement, and writing practice, and students will work on self-reflexive essays and projects.

Why Choose This Course

This MA program will empower students in the honing and development of their craft as writers; it will provide them with the tools and critical prowess to commence a career in writing and publishing. The program boasts published graduates, including Madeleine D'Arcy, Tadhg Coakley, and Laura McKenna. Notable writers associated with UCC include Mary Noonan, Doireann Ní Ghríofa, Ailbhe Ní Ghearbhuigh, Thomas McCarthy, Sean Dunne, Paul Durcan, Theo Dorgan, and Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin.

Skills and Careers Information

This MA will provide an excellent foundation for a variety of writing and publishing careers, including authorship across a range of forms and styles, journalism, teaching, publishing, and arts administration. The design of the MA fosters contacts with agents, publishers, and the professional world of the creative industries; it also produces well-crafted writing in one (or more) of the forms of creative writing.

Requirements

Applications will be considered from graduates of all disciplines. Applicants will normally have a Second Class Honours Grade II in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) or above, in any discipline. For North American students, a cumulative GPA of 3.2 is normally expected. Applicants with relevant writing or arts experience (e.g., working in publishing, journalism, or arts administration) are also invited to apply.

Fees and Costs

The EU fee for this course is Full-time: 9,900 Part-time: 5,600. The Non-EU fee for this course is 19,900.

How to Apply

To apply, check the opening and closing dates for the application process, gather required documents, and apply online through the UCC online application portal. A non-refundable 50 application fee applies to most courses. Successful EU applicants will be required to pay a non-refundable deposit of 500 on acceptance of their place.

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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.

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Outline:

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

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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.

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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.

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Assessment:

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

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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.

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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

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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.

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.