Creative Writing

The MA in Creative Writing combines workshops and seminars with one-on-one mentoring of writing projects. Students may take optional modules in literature or other creative modules from across the Faculty, such as Writing for Screen Media. The MA, taught by award-winning, internationally-renowned writers, will focus on guiding each student to further develop their voice as a writer, as well as to enrich their existing interests as a writer with new perspectives and a grasp of stylistic approaches.



Tactics for editing and revision will be taught in tandem with generative exercises and practices aimed at deepening each student's relationship to their creative process. Students will have the opportunity to build and develop networks which will sustain their writing practice beyond the MA degree.

Students take compulsory modules in Creative Prose (combined 20 credits), Literature, Creativity, and Society (10 credits), and Individual Project Development, which runs across two semesters (combined 20 credits). The creative dissertation (30 credits) is undertaken in the spring and summer (Semester 2). Students take 10 credits in optional modules from a selection offered in the Department and across the Faculty, including literature modules and Writing for Screen Media.

Applicants must hold a minimum honours 2H1 or higher in a bachelors (NFQ Level 8) degree with a subject mark in English, or a cognate discipline.



Applicants who do not hold a primary degree but have at least 3-5 years of relevant experience may apply via Maynooth University's RPL process for Non-Standard Entrants.

Closing Date : 30 April 2026

1 year full-time

2 years part-time

Students take compulsory modules in Creative Prose (combined 20 credits), Literature, Creativity, and Society (10 credits) and Individual Project Development, which runs across two semesters (combined 20 credits). The creative dissertation (30 credits) is undertaken in the spring and summer (semester 2). Students take 10 credits in optional modules from a selection offered in the Department and across the Faculty, including literature modules and Writing for Screen Media.