Have you ever wondered why some readers become completely absorbed in a book, why movie fans rewatch their favorite films, or why audiences become immersed in a play? Strong writing is often at the heart of memorable stories, whether the work is created for the page, stage, or screen.
Creative writing can include screenwriting, novels, fiction, poetry, short stories, playwriting, and more. This article does not cover every aspect of the field. Instead, it highlights several destinations that international students may consider when looking for creative writing programs abroad. Review the program format, language of instruction, entry requirements, and fees before applying.
Top Countries to Study Creative Writing
1. Ireland
Ireland is worth considering if you are comparing creative writing programs abroad. Current options include the MA in Creative Writing at University College Cork, the MA in Creative Writing at Maynooth University, and the M.Phil. in Creative Writing at Trinity College Dublin. Students can also review Irish universities and scholarships available for their intended level of study.
Scholarship eligibility depends on the award and the applicant’s circumstances. For example, the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship program supports eligible international students pursuing full-time study at National Framework of Qualifications levels 9 or 10. Applicants should review the current scholarship cycle and each university’s funding pages before applying.
Ireland’s Third Level Graduate Programme may allow eligible non-EEA graduates to remain in Ireland on Stamp 1G while seeking graduate-level employment. Graduates with a Level 8 award may receive a 12-month extension. Graduates with a Level 9 or higher award may receive up to 24 months in two 12-month blocks, subject to the scheme’s conditions. Students should review the official requirements before making plans related to a work permit.
Other institutions with relevant programs include University College Dublin, which offers graduate creative writing programs, and the University of Galway, which offers an MA in Writing.
2. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom offers a range of creative writing programs with different structures and areas of emphasis. Students should compare the curriculum, delivery format, duration, and application status of each course rather than assume that every program follows the same model.
For example, the University of Oxford offers a two-year, part-time MSt in Creative Writing. The University of St Andrews offers a one-year, full-time Creative Writing MLitt. The University of Birmingham offers an in-person Creative Writing MA that can be completed in one year full-time or two years part-time. The University of Strathclyde offers an MLitt in Creative Writing that covers fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, and poetry.
Creative writing graduates may pursue different paths depending on their experience, portfolio, and goals. Students who are planning to work after graduation should review current work opportunities and any applicable immigration requirements separately.
Numerous universities in the United Kingdom offer writing-related study options. Other institutions to review include the University of Strathclyde in Scotland.
3. Germany
Germany is worth considering for students seeking specialized writing programs. However, applicants should review the program language and admissions requirements carefully. Some options are designed for students with specific artistic goals rather than for those seeking a general creative writing degree.
At the Berlin University of the Arts, the Creative Writing for the Stage program focuses on stage writing, dramatic practice, and analytical dramaturgy. The full-time program has a standard duration of eight semesters, and applicants are expected to demonstrate special artistic talent and German-language proficiency at the C1 level.
The University of Hildesheim offers the full-time six-semester Literarisches Schreiben und Kulturjournalismus B.A. and the four-semester Literarisches Schreiben und Lektorieren M.A., which is available in full-time and part-time formats. Students can review more information about German universities and German higher education before applying.
4. Hong Kong
Hong Kong is not a country; it is a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. It is still worth including in this list because students can find creative writing programs with different academic levels, languages of instruction, and areas of focus.
The University of Hong Kong offers a one-year, full-time MFA in the field of Creative Writing in English. Hong Kong Baptist University’s Creative and Professional Writing program is an undergraduate option that develops writing skills in both Chinese and English. Hong Kong Metropolitan University offers an MA in Creative Writing with Chinese as the medium of instruction and a curriculum that covers several genres and media forms.
Students should compare the language requirements and curriculum carefully before applying. You can also review universities in Hong Kong to identify other study options.
5. Spain
Spain is worth considering for students who want to study creative writing in a Spanish-language environment. Students should review the language requirements of each program before applying.
Universidad Complutense de Madrid offers the Máster Universitario en Escritura Creativa. The program is taught in Spanish, requires a C2 level of Spanish, and includes both theoretical study and the practice of literary writing. Escuela de Escritores also offers writing training, including its Máster de Narrativa.
Students can review universities in Spain and compare university degrees with other writing-focused training options before deciding which route fits their goals.
FAQs: Studying Creative Writing Abroad
Is Creative Writing a Good Choice for a Career?
Creative writing can be a good study choice for students who want to develop their craft, build a portfolio, and explore writing-related career paths. However, no degree can guarantee publication or employment. Before applying, compare the curriculum, language of instruction, delivery format, tuition, entry requirements, and available funding. You can also review our list of open scholarships if you need financial support for your studies.
We hope that this article on the Best Countries to Study Creative Writing Abroad was helpful. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs for International Students to learn more about topics like this.
