Students will be able to choose whether to enrol for a Postgraduate Certificate, Diploma, or an MA, and may study part or full-time. The programme will be of interest to those who wish to develop their own creative writing skills whilst increasing their ability to enable others to write effectively in a variety of social and educational contexts. It will be valuable for free-lance writers, teachers, and those with undergraduate degrees in related subjects who wish to make writing, and the teaching of creative writing, part of their career. 

The programme, which has close links with NAWE, encourages students' awareness of support networks and training/career opportunities which can help them become part of a community of writers in the UK and beyond. As well as assisting students to broaden their understanding of contemporary writing, the programme offers them the opportunity to develop their own skills in fiction, poetry, screen writing, and life writing. It also helps students to explore ways in which they can enable others to write creatively. A range of modules provide knowledge and practical opportunities for students to enhance their understanding of workshop methods so that they can develop the skills required to plan both a single session and a complete short course.

Tutors are published writers and experienced, supportive teachers. Normally, full-time teaching mode will be two afternoons per week and part-time mode, one afternoon per week. Teaching will combine seminars, workshops and individual tutorial sessions. Assessment is by a range of written coursework and practical assignments.

St Mary's University College is in West London, on the Strawberry Hill campus that was the birthplace of the Gothic novel - Horace Walpole's picturesque eighteenth-century home shares the site. A new Graduate Centre is currently being developed and St Mary's Learning Resources Centre offers in and out-of-hours computing facilities. Students can also benefit from the services of a Careers Centre which organises events to put students in touch with prospective employers, and offers a range of other expertise.

Applicants should normally have a good Honours degree in a relevant subject. Applications from those without a first degree but with substantial relevant experience can be considered.

For further information, please contact Professor Robyn Bolam (as below).

To request an application form, please contact Kathy Grant
Tel. 0208 2404346