Master's Degree Arts, Design & Architecture Full Time

Master of Creative Writing

at University of Sydney · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

082900G

CRICOS provider code

00026A

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$77,700 total

Per year

A$51,800/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Creative Writing at the University of Sydney is designed for those who wish to develop advanced skills in writing fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, screenwriting and related genres. Throughout the 1.5-year full-time programme, students engage with accomplished writers and participate in seminars, workshops, and peer-review sessions that foster creative growth and critical analysis. The course provides a nurturing environment in which students can experiment with form, style, and voice, as well as perfect their storytelling craft.

The programme is structured according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) for master's degrees, usually completed over three semesters. Students enrol in units of study, each carrying a set number of credit points, which may include core seminars, electives exploring diverse writing forms, and a supervised research project or capstone in their final stage. This capstone experience often involves either a major creative manuscript with an accompanying exegesis or a practice-led research project. Select units may integrate practical workshops or opportunities for professional development, reflecting the course's links to Sydney's vibrant literary and arts scene.

As part of this degree, students gain skills highly valued in Australia's creative industries: advanced writing and editing, narrative structure, reflective critique, and industry knowledge. Coursework may involve interaction with visiting authors and practical activities which mirror industry processes. The programme is ideal for aspiring writers, editors, arts professionals, and teachers looking to hone their craft, as well as those seeking to move into creative industries or research pathways in creative writing.

International students should verify English language requirements, as the University of Sydney accepts a range of equivalent tests, and the programme is registered on CRICOS (082900G) for student visa purposes. Students on an Australian Student visa may be eligible for work rights of up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, with further post-study opportunities via the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). Prospective students should confirm course structure, entry requirements, and possible professional placements or industry projects on the official University of Sydney webpage.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Professional writer or novelist in Australia’s publishing sector
Editor or manuscript assessor in literary agencies and publishing houses
Screenwriter or script consultant for film, television and digital media
Content developer or communications specialist for creative industries and cultural organisations
Creative writing educator or workshop facilitator
Researcher in creative writing and literary studies across academic, cultural and public sectors

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Creative Writing at University of Sydney?

It typically takes 1.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$77,700 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Professional writer or novelist in Australia’s publishing sectorEditor or manuscript assessor in literary agencies and publishing housesScreenwriter or script consultant for film, television and digital mediaContent developer or communications specialist for creative industries a...

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