Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Creative Writing

The Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching Creative Writing consists of 3 modules, each focusing on a different area of teaching creative writing. By the end of the course, students will have developed:

• an enhanced knowledge of relevant existing pedagogical theory
• new practical skills for teaching, assessment, and planning
• reflective awareness and innovation in their own teaching practice

Course Details

• Course fee:
  • Home: Ł5,406
  • Overseas: Ł10,812
• Credits: 60
• Study mode: Hybrid (in person and online)
• Application Deadline: 28 May 2026
• Duration: 1 Year
• Location: Various Locations
• Course code: 2627PCR400
• Course type: Postgraduate courses

Tutors

• Dr Lucy Durneen, Teaching Associate for Creative Writing

Key Course Information

Overview

The course is aimed at:

• published writers who wish to teach or offer writing workshops
• existing creative writing tutors who want to improve or develop a more cohesive and defined pedagogy
• graduates of postgraduate creative writing courses who wish to become teachers of creative writing
• healthcare or industry professionals who wish to offer creative writing classes
• qualified teachers interested in exploring the theory of teaching creative writing or who include creative exercises as part of their teaching of core subjects, such as history or English

Aims of the Programme

The programme aims to enable participants to:

• develop their skills as a teacher of creative writing and strategies for their intended teaching contexts
• develop and/or extend their knowledge of the theories and practices of the teaching of creative writing
• develop their repertoire of teaching, course design, and assessment methods appropriate to creative writing in their context
• develop a reflexive and critical awareness of their own teaching practice and to transmit what they have learned from their own experience of being a writer into a classroom setting

Entry Requirements

• Standard entry requirements: Typically, a good UK undergraduate degree, such as a 2.1, or international equivalent.
• Non-standard applications: If you do not meet the standard entry requirements, you may still be considered with relevant professional experience or higher-level study.
• English language requirements: Courses are taught in English and require a good level of fluency. If English is not your first language, you will need to prove you have sufficient fluency before admission.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching

The course is taught over 3 modules, each of which students must attend. A Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) offers learning support to students while they are on the programme.

Module 1: The Philosophy and Context of Teaching Creative Writing

• Dates: 2 to 4 October 2026
• Topics:
  • Background and history of teaching creative writing
  • Concept of creativity and arguments surrounding whether or not creative writing can be taught
  • Methodologies surrounding teaching creative writing
  • Variations in teaching creative writing within different settings

Module 2: Designing a Creative Writing Course

• Dates: 15 to 17 January 2027
• Topics:
  • Different models of creative writing courses and their advantages and challenges
  • Pedagogical theories behind different types of courses
  • Use of close reading in different settings
  • Quality assurance aspects of designing a creative writing course

Module 3: Assessment and Feedback in a Creative Writing Course

• Dates: 16 to 18 April 2027
• Topics:
  • Different ways of providing feedback in different contexts
  • Pedagogical theories behind different types of feedback
  • Challenges of providing written feedback to a range of students
  • Historical roots of the workshop and its appropriateness in different settings

Assessment

You will be awarded a course grade on the basis of a portfolio of 3 summative assignments totalling 10,000 words.

Fees and Funding

Fees

The total fees for this course are:

• Home: Ł5,406
• Overseas: Ł10,812 You can pay the fee in instalments.

Funding

There are options available to help you manage your finances, including concessions and bursaries. Visit the financial support page for more information.

How to Apply

Key Timings for Your Application

• Application deadline: 28 May 2026
• Interviews for shortlisted candidates: Late June / early July

Supporting Documents

When you submit your application, you will need to provide:

• Personal statement (around 500 words)
• CV
• Qualifications and transcripts
• References (contact details for 2 referees)

University of Cambridge

---

Overview:

The University of Cambridge is a prestigious public research university located in Cambridge, England. It is one of the world's leading academic institutions, known for its high-quality teaching and research. The university is comprised of 31 constituent colleges, each with its own unique character and traditions.

---

Services Offered:

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university offers a vibrant and diverse student experience. Students can expect to be part of a close-knit community within their chosen college, while also having access to the wider university's resources and facilities. The university boasts a rich history and tradition, with numerous historic buildings and gardens. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, societies, and cultural events.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

Cambridge is renowned for its world-class academics and research.

Prestigious Reputation:

A degree from Cambridge is highly valued globally, opening doors to various career opportunities.

Unique College System:

The college system provides a supportive and intimate learning environment, fostering close relationships between students and tutors.

Exceptional Facilities:

The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and museums.

Vibrant Campus Life:

Cambridge offers a rich and diverse student experience, with numerous opportunities for extracurricular activities and social engagement.

---

Academic Programs:

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Humanities:

History, English Literature, Classics, Philosophy, Theology, Music, Art History, and more.

Social Sciences:

Economics, Politics, Sociology, Anthropology, Psychology, and more.

Sciences:

Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, and more.

Medicine:

Clinical Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and more.

---

Other: