Diploma of Creative Writing

This diploma gives you a year of focused writing practice across fiction, creative nonfiction, screenwriting and poetry. You write every week, workshop drafts with classmates, and get feedback from working writers. The course sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, which means it's a shorter, practical qualification below a bachelor degree. You'll study units of a few credit points each, usually across two semesters or trimesters, and build a folio of finished work by the end.

What you actually study

Expect units in narrative craft, character and voice, editing and redrafting, and reading as a writer. You'll analyse short stories, essays and scripts, then apply those techniques to your own projects. Assessment is mostly folio-based: drafts, revisions, reflective notes and a final manuscript. Some units may include a small capstone project where you develop a longer piece from pitch to polished draft. The exact unit list and credit points are set by Collarts, so check the official course page for the current structure.

How it fits into the Australian system

Diplomas are nested qualifications. If you complete this one, you may be eligible for credit towards a bachelor degree at Collarts or another institution, usually reducing your degree by a semester or more. That's a common pathway for students who want to test the field before committing to three years. The diploma also stands alone as a qualification for entry-level writing and content roles.

Who it suits

This course suits school leavers who want a practical start, career changers who need a structured writing habit, and anyone building a portfolio for further study or freelance work. It's also useful if you work in marketing, communications or media and want to sharpen your writing. International students should note the Student visa work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. After graduation, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, depending on your circumstances. English proficiency is required for international applicants; check the official page for the exact IELTS or equivalent score and confirm all details with Collarts.

• Copywriter or content writer for digital agencies, publishers and in-house marketing teams
• Editorial assistant at magazines, newspapers or online publications
• Script reader or production assistant in film and television
• Communications officer in the public sector, NGOs or arts organisations
• Freelance writer for blogs, social media and branded content
• Publishing assistant in trade or educational publishing
• Further study: bachelor degree in creative writing, journalism or screen production with credit