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Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (Distance) (MFA)
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Creative Writers are at the heart of our cultural industries. Poets, novelists, screenwriters, playwrights, graphic novelists, magazine writers: they entertain, inform and inspire. For more than 15 years, UBC's Creative Writing program has been educating writers through distance education in a program which complements our long-standing on-campus MFA program.
A studio program with the writing workshop at its heart, the distance MFA focuses on the work created by students as the primary text. Through intensive peer critique and craft discussion, faculty and students work together with the same goal: literary excellence.
The MFA granted to distance students is the same degree as granted to on-campus students, and the same criteria of excellence in multiple genres of study apply.
For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website
What makes the program unique?
UBC's Optional-Residency (Distance) MFA was the first distance education MFA program in Canada and remains the only full MFA which can be taken completely online. It is designed to be uniquely flexible, allowing students across Canada and around the world to study writing at the graduate level while still living in their local communities and fulfilling career and family obligations.
The program is unique globally for its multi-genre approach to writing instruction: students are required to work in multiple genres during the course of the degree. As a fine arts program rather than an English program, students focus on the practice of writing rather than the study of literature. Students may work on a part-time basis, taking up to five years to complete the degree.
Quick Facts
Program enquiries, admission information & requirements, program instructions.
The optional residency MFA (distance) program only has a July intake.
1) Check Eligibility
Minimum academic requirements.
The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:
- Canada or the United States
- International countries other than the United States
Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.
English Language Test
Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.
Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:
TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based
Overall score requirement : 90
IELTS: International English Language Testing System
Overall score requirement : 6.5
Other Test Scores
Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:
The GRE is not required.
2) Meet Deadlines
3) prepare application, transcripts.
All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.
Letters of Reference
A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.
Statement of Interest
Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.
Supervision
Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.
Instructions regarding supervisor contact for Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (Distance) (MFA)
Citizenship verification.
Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.
4) Apply Online
All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.
Tuition & Financial Support
Financial support.
Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.
Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)
All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.
Teaching Assistantships (GTA)
Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .
Research Assistantships (GRA)
Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their direction. The duties usually constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is a form of financial support for a period of graduate study and is, therefore, not covered by a collective agreement. Unlike other forms of fellowship support for graduate students, the amount of a GRA is neither fixed nor subject to a university-wide formula. The stipend amounts vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded. Some research projects also require targeted research assistance and thus hire graduate students on an hourly basis.
Financial aid (need-based funding)
Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .
All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.
Foreign government scholarships
Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.
Working while studying
The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.
International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.
A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .
Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals
Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.
Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.
Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.
Cost Calculator
Applicants have access to the cost calculator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.
Career Options
Graduates of the MFA program have found success in varied fields related to writing and communication. The MFA qualifies graduates for teaching at the university level and many graduates have gone on to teach at colleges and universities in Canada, the United States and overseas as well as holding writing residencies. Many publish books and win literary awards. Others go on to work in publishing, and graduates have become book and magazine editors.
Although the MFA is a terminal degree, some graduates go on to further study in PhD programs in the US, UK and Australia.
The Optional-Residency MFA is particularly well suited to teachers: our teacher-students have been able to gain an advanced degree while continuing their careers.
- Research Supervisors
This list shows faculty members with full supervisory privileges who are affiliated with this program. It is not a comprehensive list of all potential supervisors as faculty from other programs or faculty members without full supervisory privileges can request approvals to supervise graduate students in this program.
- Belcourt, Billy-Ray (Fiction; Nonfiction; Poetry)
- Hopkinson, Nalo (Creative writing, n.e.c.; Humanities and the arts; Creative Writing: Speculative Ficton, Fantasy, Science Fiction, especially Other Voices)
- Irani, Anosh
- Leavitt, Sarah (Autobiographical comics; Formal experimentation in comics; Comics pedagogy)
- Lee, Nancy (Fiction; Creative Writing)
- Lyon, Annabel (50th Anniversary of Creative Writing, fiction, creative writing )
- Maillard, Keith (Fiction, poetry)
- McGowan, Sharon (Planning of film productions from concept to completion)
- Medved, Maureen (Fiction, writing for screen)
- Ohlin, Alix (Fiction; Screenwriting; Environmental writing)
- Pohl-Weary, Emily (Fiction; Writing for Youth)
- Svendsen, Linda (Fiction, television)
- Taylor, Timothy (fiction and nonfiction)
- Vigna, John (Novel and Short Story; Fiction, Creative Writing)
Related Programs
Same specialization.
- Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (MFA)
Same Academic Unit
- Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Theatre (MFA)
- Master of Fine Arts in Film Production and Creative Writing (MFA)
At the UBC Okanagan Campus
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Further Information
Specialization.
Creative Writing combines the best of traditional workshop and leading-edge pedagogy. Literary cross-training offers opportunities in a broad range of genres including fiction, poetry, screenplay, podcasting, video game writing and graphic novel.
UBC Calendar
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Departments/Programs may update graduate degree program details through the Faculty & Staff portal. To update the application inquiries contact details please use this form .

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Study with our faculty of internationally renowned, award-winning authors in a student-focused program that blends the best of traditional workshop and leading edge pedagogy.

MFA Program

It was the reputation of UBC’s Creative Writing program that convinced me to focus on an MFA. The faculty sounded wonderful, and I loved the idea of the optional-residency program, which would allow me to go ahead with my plans to move to Europe while still enjoying the benefits of a UBC education.
Featured events, tackling mature themes in children’s lit: workshop with janae marks (on zoom), featured news, ars scientia inspires new collaboration between creative writing and physics students, meet the new faculty in creative writing 2023, virtual writer in residence oliver baez bendorf brings mystery and transformation to ubc, faculty highlights, see recent publications and productions from our faculty..

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at Guelph

Our MFA Program, located in Toronto, the most richly diverse city in the country, welcomes and is structured to nurture and support many voices and wide imaginaries. Our distinguished faculty and our many acclaimed graduates recognize the power of language to summon a different world. We offer workshops in fiction, creative nonfiction, drama and poetry. Defining characteristics include innovative plenary courses, a semester-long mentorship with a professional writer, and the opportunity to design and teach creative writing workshops in downtown Toronto schools.
The deadline to apply for fall 2024 admission is December 4, 2023.
Check out our monthly Speakeasy Reading Series . Upcoming dates and featured readers can be found on Facebook .
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What We're Reading: Poetry Alumni [Spring 2022]
We asked poetry alumni david bradford , claire caldwell , and laurie d. graham —who've all published recent books—to share literature & media inspiring them this spring....
Study and Work in Creative Writing in Canada
What Creative Writing Students Learn Topics and concepts that are covered and the overall approach or focus taken in studying Creative Writing.
Career and Employment Opportunities in Creative Writing Professions or occupations available to graduates in Creative Writing and links to employment resources.
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35 Best universities for Creative Writing in Canada
- Art & Design
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
- Mathematics
Below is the list of best universities in Canada ranked based on their research performance in Creative Writing. A graph of 147K citations received by 9K academic papers made by 35 universities in Canada was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.
We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.
Please note that our approach to topical rankings is based on scientific outputs and heavily biased on art-related topics towards institutions with computer science profiles.
1. University of Toronto
For Creative Writing

2. University of British Columbia

3. University of Alberta

4. York University

5. McGill University

6. University of Calgary

7. Western University

8. Simon Fraser University

9. University of Ottawa

10. University of Victoria

11. Queen's University

12. Wilfrid Laurier University

13. Carleton University

14. McMaster University

15. University of Manitoba

16. University of Waterloo

17. University of Montreal

18. Memorial University of Newfoundland

19. Dalhousie University

20. Concordia University

21. Brock University

22. Ryerson University

23. University of Saskatchewan

24. University of Windsor

25. Trent University

26. University of Guelph

27. Laurentian University

28. University of Regina

29. Laval University

30. University of New Brunswick

31. University of Lethbridge

32. University of Quebec in Montreal

33. University of Winnipeg

34. St. Francis Xavier University

35. Lakehead University

The best cities to study Creative Writing in Canada based on the number of universities and their ranks are Toronto , Vancouver , Edmonton , and Montreal .
Art & Design subfields in Canada
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Postgraduate Creative Writing courses in Canada
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Master of Arts in English - Creative Writing and Language and Literature
Windsor , Canada
THE world university rank: 601
Course qualification
Masters Degree
Entry score
Total course fee
INR 832,622 ? CAD 15,330 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Master of Arts in English - Creative Writing
Montreal , Canada
INR 1,520,373 ? CAD 27,993 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing
Victoria , Canada
THE world university rank: 301
INR 562,194 ? CAD 10,351 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Master of Fine Arts in Writing

Toronto , Canada
THE world university rank: 18
INR 2,135,324 ? CAD 39,315 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Ontario Graduate Certificate in Content Strategy
Graduate Certificate
INR 980,788 ? CAD 18,058 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (Okanagan)
Kelowna , Canada
THE world university rank: 40
INR 743,926 ? CAD 13,697 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Vancouver , Canada
INR 991,902 ? CAD 18,263 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing - Fiction, Creative Non-Fiction, ...
Online Campus , Canada
INR 956,890 ? CAD 17,618 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

THE world university rank: 501
INR 1,771,836 ? CAD 32,623 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.
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Masters in Writing and Literature Graduate Programs in Canada
What are masters in writing and literature graduate programs.
Masters in Literature and Writing programs offer students the opportunity to take their theoretical literary knowledge or proficiency in written modalities to the next level of professionalism and academics. Whether your passion is creative writing or English Literature, choose from a variety of masters and master of fine arts (MFA) degree program options.
While you can find general Master of Arts in Literature and Writing Programs, concentrations within these fields may have their own appeal and warrant some consideration for those seeking to fine-tune a particular skill-set or aptitude.
What are Masters in Literature and Writing MFA Degree Program Basics? in Canada
Typically, Masters in Literature and Writing Degree programs are 1 to 2 year programs if done full time. This may mean 33 hours of graduate course work, or thesis programs, it could break down to 27 hours of coursework with the additional 6 hours of graded coursework applying to the thesis component. You may expect some variables in terms of programs and graduate schools.
Prospective applicants to Writing and Literature Masters Programs are usually expected to have earned a Bachelor’s degree and maintained a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.00 or higher. Other application materials might include transcripts, a statement of purpose, multiple letters of recommendation and possibly a written essay or writing sample. The GRE scores may or may not be required depending on the university and program.
FUN FACT: 30% of English Language and Literature Postsecondary Teachers hold a Master’s degree, 58% a Doctorate Degree. (Source: O’Net )
Master of Arts in Literature and Writing in Canada
Literature and Writing are interwoven; literature in its broadest definition is any kind of writing as an art form. Literature is often classified into:
- Categories such as fiction, non-fiction, poetry, prose, drama
- Genres determined by literary technique of content (e.g. tragedy, comedy, drama, epic)
- Literary techniques such as linear or nonlinear narrative
There are different motivations for writing such as:
- Storytelling
- Correspondence
- Publication
- Dissemination of information
- Instruction
- Fact keeping
What are Specific Literature and Writing Masters Programs? in Canada
For the student who knows what they want to study in depth, choosing a concentration area might be an option. Some of the ones to consider are: Comparative Literature, Creative Writing, Literature, Professional Writing, and Technical Communication.
Comparative Literature
Students interested in a global or interdisciplinary approach to literary study might find a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MSc) in Comparative Literature program interesting. This type of program typically involves translation, literary criticism, and mastery of a foreign language.
Students who associate with the term “bookworm” are likely to find a Master’s in Literature (MALit) appealing and stimulating. Depending on the type of literature you are studying, this type of program could involve reading classic and contemporary texts. Intellectually stimulating, students may learn through interpretation of diverse works to analyze complex information and draw effective conclusions.
- Creative Writing
Usually offered as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing, these programs may appeal to students interested in cultivating their own writing style and voice, as well as learn what editors and publishers tend to look for in terms of plot, character development, and narratives.
Professional Writing
Master of Professional Writing programs often focus on specific areas of writing (e.g. fiction, nonfiction, poetry, scriptwriting). Sometimes a blend of theory, perspectives and technique, students often learn how to produce a manuscript.
Technical Communication
Typically offered as a Master of Science (MSc) in Technical Writing, this type of program could be a good fit for students who are interested in potential careers in areas such as web design, software and hardware documentation, industrial training and development, medical communication, or environmental and agricultural communication. Technical writing may involve explaining something technological to an audience or learning to write according to specific guidelines and communication techniques.
On-Campus, Online, Hybrid
Broadly, Masters in Literature and Writing Programs are available as on-campus, online or hybrid degrees. Students looking for a traditional program with hands-on learning and face-to-face interactions might want to search for graduate schools by location; use the city, state or country tabs on GradSchools.com to yield sponsored listings. Those learners seeking less time on campus might look into a distance-learning option. Some online programs actually have campus requirements and may be found under the hybrid section. This is because participation, rhetoric, critique and interchange usually play a large role in graduate programs in literature and writing. When you find a degree or school that looks interesting, request info from the graduate school, and you are on your way to pinpointing the Masters in Literature and Writing degree program that aligns with your goals.
Accreditation
Concerned whether your program or graduate school is accredited? The U.S. Department of Education recognizes the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) as the national agency for accreditation and quality assurance. [ii]
Take the Next Step
Whether you aspire to teach courses in English language and Literature, are seeking a managerial position in public relations [iii] , want to use the Master’s degree as a platform for continued education, or want to refine and build on your writing strengths. The great thing about looking into Masters in Literature and Writing Programs is that there are options. Start searching through the directory of sponsored listings to find choices such as Master of Arts – Literature and Writing , Master of Arts in Science Writing, MFA in Creative Writing, or M.A. in Classical Studies .

Sources: [i] onetonline.org/link/summary/25-1123.00 | [ii] chea.org/pdf/chea-at-a-glance_2015 | [iii] bls.gov/ooh/management/public-relations-managers.htm | pdf | en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Literary_genre | en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Literature
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Schools with Master in Literature in Canada
Gradschools.com offers 271 masters in writing in canada.
- Some of the nation’s most affordable tuition rates, from a private, nonprofit, NEASC accredited university
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- Choose from 125+ degrees and certificates designed to equip you with real-world skills.
- Discover a truly online learning experience. UMGC courses are designed from the ground up to be collaborative online learning experiences that prepare you for today’s digital business environment.

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Concordia University https://www.concordia.ca/content/concordia/en/artsci/english/programs/graduate/creative-writing-ma.html

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Program overview
Fast-track your skills in the company of other writers. Pursue your thesis with a professor whose expertise complements your area of interest. Take literature seminars that broaden your understanding of others’ work and your own. The literary culture you encounter will enhance every aspect of your development as a writer.
You’ll have the freedom to explore your creative vision and find your voice as a writer and scholar in the artistically vibrant city of Montreal. Our program’s flexibility allows you to propose a thesis project in traditional or innovative genres and media, including digital.
By pursuing training as a writer in the context of a literature program, you’ll experience a learning environment informed by a multiplicity of insights. Your classmates will include people pursuing scholarly interests as well as those with their sights set on writing careers, publishing and editing, gaming, and teaching.
You’ll also have the opportunity to forge professional and artistic relationships that will last throughout your career. Concordia is home to the Centre for Expanded Poetics, the Mordecai Richler Reading Room , numerous publications, and the Writers Read series , which attracts renowned and emerging writers alike.
Program Details
Admission requirements, english literature ma with thesis (option a), english literature ma with thesis (option b) (45 credits), creative writing with thesis (option c), degree requirements, degree requirements.
Fully-qualified candidates are required to complete a minimum of 45 credits.
Please see the English Courses page for course descriptions.
English MA (45 credits)
Program options.
Degree options
You may choose one of three options. English Literature MA with Thesis (Option A) English Literature MA with Thesis (Option B) Creative Writing with Thesis (Option C)
Application process
Your completed application will include:
- Application form and Fee
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Three Letters of Reference and assessment form
- Statement of Purpose (2 pages maximum) outlining your academic and creative writing background and areas of interest, potential thesis area, and objectives in pursuing graduate studies
- Creative Writing portfolio
- For international students, a sample of your written work, such as a course paper (15 pages maximum).
- Transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended
- Proof of Canadian citizenship (if applicable)
- Applicants whose primary language is not English, are required to submit official language test scores , unless exempted.
Please apply online . Read the how-to guide for application procedures.
Application deadlines
Consult the graduate calendar for a complete list of courses and read about upcoming, current and past course offerings .
Portfolio information
How to submit your portfolio
Email a PDF version of your portfolio to the Graduate Program Assistant [email protected] on or before the application deadline. Your portfolio MUST include the portfolio cover page and a copy of your statement of purpose.
The subject line should read: Last name, first name - graduate portfolio submission
About the portfolio
It is not necessary to submit all three genres; though you may wish to reflect your strengths in various genres, the focus should be on that in which you propose to complete your thesis. If you write prose, submit 35 to ( a maximum of ) 45 pages (double-spaced); if poetry, 20 to ( a maximum of ) 25 pages (single-spaced). If you are applying in drama, you must submit one complete play. In the case of a combined-genre portfolio, the total should not exceed 35 pages (unless drama is included). Submit your strongest work that which you feel accurately represents your abilities and interests. Where possible, complete works are preferable to excerpts.
Students not accepted into the Creative Writing program may enter the Literature Option if they have met admission requirements and have indicated that they are interested in the other option on the portfolio cover page form.
We’re committed to providing students the support they need to focus on their studies. Top students benefit from scholarships and teaching assistantships, and all students are eligible for conference awards and other funding .
Please also consult the English Department’s funding page and Financial Aid and Awards .
Faculty research interests
Our faculty members are accomplished scholars across many fields of literature. Learn about the diverse research interests through our research initiatives and recent publications .
Student initiatives
Graduate students hold writing sessions and workshops, host literary and scholarly events, and publish a journal. Learn more about Concordia Write Nights , Headlight , and visit SAGE to get involved.
Your professional future
An MA in English prepares you for careers that require strength in research, writing, and communication.
You’ll also be qualified to teach in Quebec’s CEGEP system.
Our graduates are well-placed to take on advanced study in a PhD program, in either English or Creative Writing. Others have become icons of the Canadian literary scene. Still others work in such fields as editing (literary, copy), publishing (as employees or as small press publishers themselves), writing for online and print magazines (e.g. Maisonneuve , The Walrus ), developing video games, teaching CEGEP, teaching ESL, translating, and technical writing.
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Creative Writing
About this program.
Have you longed to explore your creative potential?
Embrace the unknown and start your journey here. As part of one of the largest Creative Writing programs in Canada, you can learn the essentials of excellent writing and put them into practice. Whether you aspire to write a novel or short story, explore poetry, pen a script or screenplay, or explore other writing styles, we have the courses you need to improve your skills.
Class sizes and writers workshops are kept small to ensure you receive the individual attention you need to help your writing thrive, whether you take your class in-class or online.
Courses in the genres listed below can be applied to the Certificate in Creative Writing
- Creative Non-Fiction
- Escritura Creativa en Español
- Literary Fiction
- Multi-genre
- Poetry and Songwriting
- Popular Fiction
- Stage and Screenwriting
- U of T Summer Writing School
- UTM Summer Writing School
- Writing for Children
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Graduate Creative Writing
Aided by the Calgary Distinguished Writers Program, the Creative Writing program attracts national and international acclaim. Faculty and students actively contribute to the Calgary and Canadian arts communities.
Want to take creative writing at the graduate level?
We offer an MA or PhD in English with a Creative Writing thesis or dissertation option. In Creative Writing, you are required to fulfill the same requirements as other graduate students. We offer a unique mixing of literature courses and writing workshops.
MA with creative thesis
You may apply to submit a substantial work of poetry or fiction as a creative project for the MA thesis in English. However, we caution that permission is needed to undertake the creative option. We cannot promise that admission to the MA in English, nor completion of Creative Writing classes at this or any other university, guarantees permission to pursue the Creative Writing project.
We do encourage you to continue writing and to continue applying for Creative Writing courses at the graduate level.
Submit a substantial portfolio of previous work during your graduate program application (published work, five to eight short poems or one to two short stories, chapters of a novel, or a combination of poetry and prose).
Critical approach
Outline critical awareness of the approach you expect to take.
If the proposal is for poetry, you must present a critical discussion of the proposed work, calling attention elements like themes, verse-forms, groups of poems, experimental or traditional approaches, etc.
If the proposal is for fiction, you must present a critical discussion of possible approaches to characterization, theme, point of view, narrative stance, experimental or traditional approaches.
The finished product must have an introduction or afterword, normally of 20–30 pages, showing some critical awareness of the approach taken.
Average length
The average length of a poetry project is normally about fifty pages. Fiction projects are normally about one hundred and fifty pages.
PhD with creative dissertation
We offer a PhD in English with a Creative Writing option. You may be permitted to submit a substantial book-length manuscript of poetry or fiction for the PhD thesis in English. However, because of the high standards expected for such a project and the Department's limited resources in the area of creative writing, permission to undertake this option is highly competitive. While an indication of writing and publishing experience is essential, such publication by itself does not guarantee either admission to the doctoral program or approval of a creative dissertation project.
Submit a portfolio of writing and published works during your graduate program application.
Your dissertation essay must show extensive critical awareness of the approach you expect to take. Expect, as part of your studies, to do research within the genre.
Dissertation
The finished product, when presented as a dissertation for examination, must be previously unpublished and must be accompanied by a critical essay showing a sophisticated critical and/or theoretical awareness of the approach taken.
Expectations
Although quantity and quality cannot be equated, the body of work presented must be substantial; as with the dissertation for a critical Ph.D., it should fulfill expectations of originality and publishability.
Creative Writing faculty

View profile

Clara Joseph

Clem Martini

Suzette Mayr

L. Rain Prud'homme-Cranford

Vivek Shraya

Uchechukwu Umezurike

Aritha Van Herk
View profile

Joshua Whitehead
Expand your writing career.

Master of Arts (MA), thesis-based
Thesis-based programs require that you pursue independent and original research culminating in a thesis. You will work under the supervision of a faculty member whose expertise matches your research area.

Master of Arts (MA), course-based
In a course-based program, all degree requirements are fulfilled by completing courses. These may include courses that involve a project, such as a major research paper or group project.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The Department of English offers a PhD degree with one specialization, Literature in English. The Creative Writing option is available within this specialization.
Ready to apply?
Have you made your final decision and you're ready to apply?
What you'll need
The Faculty of Graduate Studies has detailed instructions about the application process.
Read admission steps and requirements
Do you have everything?
You are responsible for ensuring your application is complete and all documents are received by the deadline.
Graduate supervisor
The Department of English does not require you to confirm a supervisor prior to admission.
Begin your application
First create an eID . You must have one to access the online application.
Once you begin, remember to click 'Save & Continue' often to ensure your application is saved.
Online application
Graduate program contacts
Contact us for any questions you may have about the programs we offer in the Department of English.
Graduate Program Advisor
Ask me about graduate program advising
Lori Somner
[email protected]
Associate Head (Graduate Program)
Ask me about graduate degree requirements
Dr. Stefania Forlini
[email protected]
Creative Writing Coordinator
Ask me about the Creative Writing Program
Clara A.B. Joseph
[email protected]

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Contact the Department of English
University of Regina Administration-Humanities Building, AH 313 3737 Wascana Parkway Regina, SK S4S 0A2 Phone: 306-585-4310 Fax: 306-585-5429 E-mail Us [email protected] Department Head
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Dr. Jan Purnis Graduate Chair

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M.A. In Creative Writing and Faculty Bios
M.A. with Concentration in Creative Writing: Thesis Option
The MA in Creative Writing (thesis option) is a non-terminal degree. This means that students can choose to pursue an additional, studio-based MFA in Creative Writing, or go on to a PhD in Creative Writing . After course work in both academic and creative writing seminars, students write a thesis in the genre of their choice (poetry, fiction, or creative non-fiction). Award-winning faculty offer small classes, personal supervision and professional training. An extra benefit to studying creative writing at the University of Regina is that students can participate in a vibrant local writing community that includes numerous reading series and programs offered by the Saskatchewan Writers Guild, the oldest and most established writers' guild in Canada. The city of Regina offers several opportunities to present creative work, including writing series organized by the SWG and the Regina Public Library, literary events at Queen City Pride, and readings at the Cathedral Village Festival. Regina also has a thriving theatre community, with venues such as The Globe and The Artesian, as well as independent theatre collectives (Listen to Dis, Deaf Crows Collective), and poetry slam/open-mic nights around town.
The creative writing M.A. at the University of Regina offers students an opportunity to enrich their creative endeavours with scholarship. When asked why they’ve chosen to pursue their prospective writing career through academic channels, our students characteristically say, Because I want a critical and theoretical perspective on the literary field I’m entering as a writer. Because it gives structure to my work. Because I want to workshop my writing among peers who are formally knowledgeable about literature. Because I wouldn’t mind teaching a class like this workshop one day. Because I know that at the end of the degree, I will have a book-length manuscript in my hands.
One of the strengths of our M.A. program is its combination of creative and critical elements. While traditional MFA programs focus almost entirely on workshops, our program allows students to engage with creative and critical scholarship on writing. We also offer teaching experience in literature and composition through our T.A. program. In addition to attending workshops, receiving feedback, and commenting on the creative work of their peers, students will also read a mix of literature and criticism. They will learn to analyze writing in diverse forms, both as writers themselves, and as scholars. We offer the best of both worlds. Our aim is to give writers the training they need to position their own work within a genre tradition, and to engage with the history and practice of the writing they’re passionate about. By the end of the program, students will gain a variety of skills, including: editing, teaching, communication, research, strategies for submission, and analysis of their own creative work.
Students in the thesis-stream will take 5 graduate/honors courses, 2 of which must be in the creative writing concentration. Upon completion of course requirements, they will enrol in ENGL 901 [Thesis Project Proposal], and work on a creative thesis proposal with their graduate supervisor. Once this is approved, they will enrol in ENGL 902 and work on producing a manuscript. This period will last for a maximum of 5 semesters, after which they will submit their manuscript to a committee (this may include a mix of academic and creative writing faculty members). The final stage will be discussing their manuscript with an external writer.
M.A. with Concentration in Creative Writing: Project Option
This is similar to the thesis route, but with more of an emphasis on coursework. Students will enrol in 7 graduate-honours courses, 2 of which must be in the creative writing concentration. Students may also choose to take a course outside the Department of English (such as an offering through the Faculty of Media, Art, and Performance, or a course in History). Upon completion of coursework, students will enrol in ENGL 901 and work on a creative project proposal with their graduate supervisor. Once this is approved, they will enrol in ENGL 902 and work on producing a shorter manuscript [30-50 pages]. In addition to their honors supervisor, another creative writing faculty member will examine their manuscript.
Note: Students who enrol in the full coursework stream [10 courses] may choose to take creative writing courses, but will not receive a creative writing concentration.
The department’s creative writing faculty currently includes Michael Trussler, Medrie Purdham, Jes Battis, Jean Hillabold, Jesse Archibald-Barber, Christian Riegel, and Melanie Schnell: novelists, short story writers, poets, playwrights, anthologists and editors. As creative writing instructors, they work to present innovative courses at the graduate level, on subjects like Worldbuilding, Writing the Lyric Self, Writing Fantasy, and Writing Fixed Form Poetry. Certain literature courses (like Michael Trussler’s graduate courses on Experimental Memoir and on Poetics: Theory and Practice) are designed to include interpretive options for both literature and creative writing students, who may respond to course texts creatively or critically.
Between them, faculty members combined experience in publishing across diverse genres, editing collections of creative work, reviewing books, staging plays, and delivering workshops on campus and beyond. They have been recognized with a number of important awards, including high honours in the CBC’s prestigious annual literary competition, multiple nominations and honours at the Saskatchewan Book Awards, work shortlisted for a Best Canadian Science Fiction and Fantasy award, a host of journal awards at Arc , Grain , Vallum , Prairie Fire , The Antigonish Review , Contemporary Verse II and The New Quarterly , and inclusions in the Best Canadian Poetry yearbook, as well as publications in Best Erotica .
Faculty Bios

Creative Writing and Research
Jesse Archibald-Barber is from oskana kâ-asastêki. He teaches Indigenous Literatures in English at the First Nations University of Canada, specializing in Saskatchewan Indigenous literary history and early Indigenous literatures in Canada.
Selected Links to Published Works
Short Story: “Beneath the Starry Map.” Mitêwâcimowina: Indigenous Science Fiction and Speculative Storytelling . Ed. Neal Mcleod. Penticton: Theytus, 2016.
Short Story: “ The Bowl Game. ” The Malahat Review: Elusive Boundaries: Mapping Creative Nonfiction in Canada . #193 (Winter 2015)
Poem: “pîsim pimâcihowin / The Sun Voyage” The Canadian Journal of Native Studies 38.1 (2018)
Performance Work:
Artistic Director and co-writer: Making Treaty 4 . Canada 150 Performance, University Theatre, University of Regina, August 24, 2017.
Artistic Director and co-writer: Making Treaty 4 . Student Performance, University Theatre, University of Regina, April 10, 2017.
Producer Assistant: From Up North . Director: Trudy Stewart. Red Jade Productions Inc., 2017. Film documentary.
Co-writer and performer: RIIS from the Ashes . Collective Performance Storytelling Ensemble. First Nations University of Canada, June 23, 2016.
Performer: Music Video for “I Remember” by InfoRed. Director: Brad Bellegarde. Aug. 2015.
Co-writer, director, performer, producer: TransActions: Memorial Dedication . Collective Performance Storytelling Ensemble. First Nations University, Sept. 17, 2015.
Co-writer and performer: TransActions . Collective Performance Storytelling Ensemble. Curtain Razors. Director: Michele Sereda. First Nations University, Oct. 4-5, 2014.
Director and Producer: Two Spirits . Writer: Dominga Robinson. University of Regina. April 2012.
Producer: Two Old Women . Writer: Yvette Nolan. Director: Jennifer Squires. University of Regina. April 2012.
Producer: Performance of Deanne Kasokeo’s Antigone . Writer Deanne Kasokeo. Director: Floyd Favel. First Nations University of Canada, 13 October 2011.
Edited Publications:

Guest Editor: Grain: The Journal of Eclectic Writing 42.4 (2015).

Jes Battis specializes in teaching and writing genre fiction: fantasy, speculative fiction, horror, and procedural crime. They are the author of the Occult Special Investigator Series and Parallel Parks Series , both with Ace/Penguin. Night Child , the first novel in the OSI series, was shortlisted for the Sunburst Award for Excellence in Canadian Literature of the Fantastic, and nominated for the Endeavour Award. Jes has published fantasy-themed work in Strange Horizons , and work on popular culture in the Los Angeles Review of Books . They’ve also published poetry in literary journals such as The Puritan , Poetry is Dead , Contemporary Verse 2 , The Maynard , and T he Capilano Review .
Selected Links to Published Works:

“ Sleepover ,” The Puritan Review .
“ Winter Skips ,” Ghost City Review .
“ The Tribble ,” CV2 .

Jean R. Hillabold (she/her) received a Master’s Degree in English from the University of Regina in 1989, and began teaching creative writing courses for the Faculty of Extension and the Saskatchewan Writers Guild. She was hired to teach first-year literature and composition courses in the University of Regina in the 1990s, and has been an Instructor since the position was created in 1999.

A compilation of 25 of her nonfiction essays about sex, Sex Is All Metaphors (title based on a line in a poem by Dylan Thomas) was released as an ebook in 2011 by the Coming Together project ( eroticanthology.com ). The essays appeared first as a monthly column on the website of the Erotic Readers and Writers Association. She still contributes to the blog of the association: http://www.erotica-readers.blogspot.com
She co-edited OutSpoken: Perspectives on Queer Identities with Dr. Wes Pearce (University of Regina Press 2013). This anthology is based on presentations given by the University of Regina Queer Initiative in previous years. (Her essay, “The Christian Martyr and the Pagan Witness in The Well of Loneliness ” is included.)
Her article, “The Vampire Cult of Eternal Youth” appeared in The Vampire Goes to College: Essays on Teaching with the Undead , edited by Lisa A. Nevarez (North Carolina: McFarland 2014).
Over one hundred of her short stories have appeared in print anthologies, as well as several single-author publications from Lethe Press:
The Princess and the Outlaw: Tales of the Torrid Past (2013) plus The Flight of the Black Swan: A Bawdy Novella (historical fiction set in the 1860s, 2013, also in audio). Her local-colour erotic novel, Prairie Gothic: A Tale of the Old Millennium , is forthcoming from Lethe, and she is working on a sequel. She co-edited Heiresses of Russ 2015 (Lethe), an annual anthology of the year’s best lesbian speculative fiction, with publisher Steve Berman.( lethepressbooks.com )
Current Projects:
A sequel to Prairie Gothic , a collection of steampunk mystery stories featuring Miss Georgina Sherlock of Toronto as told by her companion, Jane Watson, and a collection of fantasy stories about witches.

Medrie Purdham (B.A. Hon, M.A., University of Toronto; Ph.D., McGill University) is an Associate Professor in the Department of English specializing in Creative Writing, Canadian Literature, Poetry and Modern Drama. Her poetry has been widely published in journals, she has been three times anthologized in The Best Canadian Poetry in English (Tightrope), and her book Little Housewolf is forthcoming from Véhicule Press in April of 2021.
Publisher’s blurb: Medrie Purdham's Little Housewolf delves deeply into the world of domestic miniatures, a realm where thimbles, baby teeth, push pins, keyholes, teacups, and wedding rings become meticulously realized scale models of one's terrors and joys. Purdham uses the fine-grained signatures of her poetry--close observation, exact detail, precise sounds--not only to examine childhood and its fascination with size and scale, but also to measure herself against the larger, untamed landscapes she feels increasingly alienated from ("It is all anachronism, / grasses vintage wild"). Marked by bold emotion and arresting imagery, Little Housewolf is a brilliant debut .

Writing Awards
Shortlisted, Arc Poem of the Year (“This is What Happens”) | 2019 2nd place, Arc Poem of the Year (“The Thimble’s Bucket List”) | 2019 Longlisted, Ralph Gustafson Poetry Prize, The Fiddlehead | 2018 Longlisted, CBC, Canada Writes (Poetry) | 2016 Shortlisted, Far Horizons Poetry Award, The Malahat Review | 2016 City of Regina Writing Award | 2015 Honourable mention, Short Grain competition, Grain magazine | 2015 48-hour poetry competition, Contemporary Verse 2 ; 3rd place (Poetry) | 2015 48-hour poetry competition, Contemporary Verse 2 ; 3rd place (Poetry) | 2013 48-hour poetry competition, Contemporary Verse 2 ; 2nd place (Poetry) | 2012 Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild, 1st place, Short Manuscript Award (Poetry) | 2009 2nd place, Short-Grain competition ( Grain Magazine ) (Poetry) | 2009 Longlisted for the CBC’s Canada Writes (Poetry) | 2006 The Peterson Memorial Prize in Creative Writing (McGill) | 2003
Christian Riegel Email: [email protected]
Christian Riegel has published poetry in Gaspereau Review , Flood Quarterly , Cooweescoowee , White Wall Review , New Delta Review , and Grain , amongst others, and collaborates with cognitive psychologist Katherine M. Robinson in MDA (Mind/Data/Art) to create digital art from data streams generated by the mind. Their work has appeared on the cover of Body, Space & Technology Journal .

Melanie Schnell has published long and short fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and has written for television. She has received awards for poetry, fiction, and her first novel, While the Sun is Above Us , which was listed as a part of the ELA A 30 curriculum for both public and Catholic schools across Saskatchewan. Her current novel-in-progress is a literary murder mystery set in Canada. Melanie teaches the following creative writing courses face-to-face and online: ENGL 152 (Introduction to Creative Writing), ENGL 252 (Creative Writing) and ENGL 352 (Creative Writing: Fiction). She created and developed ENGL 152, a new introductory creative writing course. Her current and upcoming supervision projects include theses in speculative fantasy and Y.A. literature.

While the Sun is Above Us , Freehand Books
“ Survival ,” Grain Magazine

MICHAEL TRUSSLER has published poetry, short stories, and creative non-fiction. His work chiefly engages with the Anthropocene, the Holocaust and Ekphrasis. His primary literary influences are John Ashbery, Don Coles and Jorie Graham. Much of his work could be described as a verbal equivalent of an Ed Kienholz installation; indeed, often his writing features his own photography, especially Polaroids. Ranging from from highly experimental poetry to realist short fiction, his work has appeared in domestic and international anthologies and journals from the United States and Canada. Two representative poems are below.
Winning three teaching awards (one at the University of Toronto, two at the University of Regina), his teaching reflects his interests listed earlier. He has developed numerous Honours / Graduate courses: some of the more recent ones are Literature and the Anthropocene, Ekphrasis: Theory and Practice; The Experimental Memoir; Zombies and Philosophical Ethics. See below for a sample syllabus.
RECENT POETRY:
"If You Worry About the Globe Spinning Out of Control." Angry Old Man. 7. 2019. https://angryoldmanmagazine.com/michael-trussler/
“Salvador Dali and the Glacier.” Canary. 46 (Fall 2019): http://canarylitmag.org/#860
The Sunday Book. —2nd Place 2020 Saskatchewan Writers Guild: John V. Hicks Long Manuscript Award: Nonfiction.
“As Unnoticed as Possible.” —Honourable Mention. Vallum Award for Poetry 2020.
“Asleep.” Arc. —1st Place for Confederation Poets Prize 2007.
“Four Windows.” —1st Place Vallum Award for Poetry 2006.
Encounters. —Won Regina and Book of the Year, Saskatchewan Book Awards 2006.
“Salva Nos.”The New Quarterly. —1st Prize for Theme Issue
“A Summer Place.” 2004. “The Blue Ball” and “Her Front Yard.” The Antigonish Review. —Two poems won 3rd place in The Great Blue Heron Poetry Contest. 2003.
Work by Our Graduates

Testimonials
The MA in Creative Writing at the University of Regina gave me two years to concentrate on assembling a manuscript of poems while following some of my literary academic interests. The level of genuine mentorship and support I received not only helped me in terms of technical craft, but created a generative space in which I felt encouraged to follow the poems in new and exciting directions! - Nathan Mader, MA graduate
The MA in Creative Writing and English at the U of R enabled me to not only take graduate classes in English, but also to complete a manuscript of my own. With options in poetry, fiction, drama, and now nonfiction, students like me can get the opportunity, guidance, and support they need to turn their ideas and dreams into coherent, creative, fulfilling and marketable texts; my memoir is a direct result of working with supervisors like Dr. Grande and Dr. Purdham and of this program. - Debby Adair, MA graduate
Literary Culture of Regina and Saskatchewan
Sage Hill Writing Experience : In its 27th year, Sage Hill offers writing workshops, colloquiums and an infamous retreat which draws participants internationally and provides professional development to writers at all stages of their careers.
SK Writers/Artist Retreats (Summer, Winter and Facilitated Retreat): Administered by the Saskatchewan Writer’s Guild, retreats are offered several times a year for writers and artists from Saskatchewan, Canada, and beyond.
Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild : The Saskatchewan Writer’s Guild offers to the local writing community several programs, services, awards, professional development workshops, contests, and events, such as the Mentorship program, Write after Lunch, the John V. Hicks Award, the annual conference, etc.
Talking Fresh (Literary Festival) : Talking Fresh is a two-day writers’ festival that targets Regina and a wider Saskatchewan community including aspiring writers and anyone interested in writers and books.
Writing North (Literary Festival) : This annual two-day festival, organized by the Department of English and the Saskatchewan Writers' Guild, is for aspiring writers and anyone interested in books and features panel discussions, writers’ talks and readings.
Vertigo Reading Series : Reading and performance series featuring poems, songs, stories and spoken word, based in Regina.
Online Literary Journal – Roadmaps and Liferafts : Road Maps and Life Rafts is a small online lit mag emerging out of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. The magazine draws in pieces that center on travel and the concept of journeying, whether that journey is a physical journey from place to place, or of personal growth and development.
Trash Talkin’ Literary Conference : An interdisciplinary conference for undergraduate and graduate students on popular culture and creative writing, hosted by students of the University of Regina.
The Word on the Street : The Word On The Street is a non-profit organization that celebrates Canadian reading, writing, and champions literacy primarily through a free, annual outdoor festival.
Cathedral Village Arts Festival : Showcases performance, artwork, and literary readings and workshops in Regina’s arts district.
OMAD Lecture Series : Both creative and scholarly presentations by faculty, staff, and students at the University of Regina.
Sâkêwêwak Annual Storyteller’s Festival : Based in Regina and Saskatoon, this community-based, multidisciplinary arts showcase features Indigenous storytelling and author readings.
Artestian Theatre : Community space and theatre in Cathedral Village, which often put on literary readings and performances.
The Penny University : Bookstore/cafe in Cathedral Village which also hosts literary events.
Gay and Lesbian Community of Regina : The GLCR community space and night-club is involved in hosting performances, drag culture, and fundraising. There are also literary events connected with Queen City Pride , as well as the Queer City Cinema film festival.
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Graduate certificate in communications: professional writing, centennial college graduate certificates.
The Communications - Professional Writing program prepares you to work as a versatile communications professional. Read more
Graduate Certificate in Advanced Television and Film: Script to Screen
The Advanced Television and Film – Script to Screen program at Centennial College offers a comprehensive, in-depth and hands-on understanding of what goes into developing and producing quality feature films and TV shows. Read more
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Creative Writing Courses in Canada
- Updated on
- Mar 3, 2023

As the name suggests, creative writing is a style where creativity is at the forefront and the imagination and aesthetic of the writer flow with each written word. Highly artistic individuals with an ability to connect to people through their writing, opt for this unique career path that offers a wide range of specializations. Creative writing goes beyond the bounds of academic and technical writing. It is a medium to express your feelings by jotting them down on the pages and complex subtleties of emotions related to them. The wide range of creative writing courses in Canada allows the aspirant to be well-versed with different composing styles and literary devices and reach great heights in the realm of writing.
Vaccination Rules for International Students Around the World!
This Blog Includes:
Why study creative writing in canada, list of creative writing courses in canada, types of creative writing courses in canada, certificate course, university of calgary, top colleges for creative writing courses in canada, specialisation, eligibility criteria, pre-arrival costs, cost of living (one-year), career scope .
- Canada is an excellent destination for pursuing creative writing programs as its home to big publishing companies like HarperCollins Canada, Penguin Random House Canada, Dundurn Press, and Scholastic Canada.
- The federal government in Canada has reported a tremendous increase in job opportunities in industries like marketing, digital marketing, and content development despite the ongoing COVID- pandemic making creative writing and copywriting an important skill.
- Studying creative writing courses in Canada is also the gateway to getting a post-study work visa and eventually permanent residency in the country. Students who have completed their degrees in Canada can stay back in the country and join the Canadian economic force.
Explore: Study in Canada without IELTS
- Bachelor of Arts in English literature – Creative Writing
- Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing
- Bachelor of Arts in Writing
- Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Program
- Master of Art with Creative Writing, Literature, and Language
- Masters of Art in Creative Writing and English
- Ontario Graduate Certificate in Content Strategy
- Master of Fine Arts in Writing
- Postgraduate Certificate in Creative Writing
Bachelor’s degree (3-4 years, full-time)
Students who have a passion for writing and wish to study in Canada, and learn more about the creative industry are highly recommended to pursue this course. This course introduces you to the world of writing that is different from technical writing. The curriculum puts special emphasis on the area of poetry, films, essays, fiction, novels, and other writing genres. The students learn the basic skills required for writing and learn to put their creative tools to use and have a successful career in the field.
Master’s degree (1-2 years, full-time)
Another popular creative writing course in Canada is Masters. A Master’s degree in creative writing is a type of post-graduate degree that students usually aim for after completing their undergraduate degree. This course allows you to delve deeper into the aspects of literature writing by incorporating all the aspects of writing, from grammar and vocabulary to major areas like literary analysis, plot development, etc. After completing this course, the students acquire a deeper insight into the creation of novels, poems, film writing, etc. It offers a wide range of specializations to choose from. These include playwriting, comedy writing, fiction and non-fiction, and many more!
The University of Calgary offers a creative writing certification program in online mode. This creative writing course in Canada is a 200-hour certificate course that allows you to hone your core skills in creative writing. It will provide you with knowledge about various aspects of writing that include editing, and proofreading and help you further in content development in various genres. You receive extensive training and professional mentorship throughout the program which prepares you for becoming a published writer. After the completion of the course, you receive a globally recognized certificate that revamps your resume and opens up more job prospects in the field of creative writing.
- Narrative Essay
- Creative nonfiction
- Short Story
- Stage and Screenwriting
- Popular Fiction
- Poetry and Songwriting
- Fiction Writing
Eligibility criteria to get into creative writing courses in Canada varies depending on the course, university, level of degree, etc., but one of the most important prerequisites is your portfolio. To establish your reputation as a worthy writer, students are recommended to build a portfolio that includes samples of their best works.
Other than your portfolio, to be eligible for admission, you must possess the following:
- You would have to put together a strong portfolio of your works.
- Some colleges might demand a minimal mark of 75% or a B+.
- You must send a SOP or motivational letter outlining your interests and future goals in addition to your IELTS TRF, TOEFL, or Duolingo score (minimum score requirements are 6.5 to 7.5 on each test).
- Your resume or work CV must also be included in the application package.
Want to Score a Perfect 8 Band in IELTS? Take Leverage Live Class Demo & Get Started!
Cost of Studying Creative Writing Courses in Canada
When it comes to studying abroad, Canada is comparatively more affordable than other international destinations. Still, there are a lot of expenses that need to be kept in mind while you plan on studying creative writing courses in Canada. The budget should be planned in accordance with the pre-arrival cost and the cost of living after arriving. The following table gives a brief overview of the broad expenses covered through the entire process of applying to study creative writing in Canada.
Explore: Life in Canada for Indians
The career scope for creative writing courses in Canada is vast. Students with experience and determination can find a diverse range of job profiles in creative writing, marketing, publishing, entertainment, and freelancing. Here are some job profiles to explore after creative writing courses:
- Advertising copywriter
- Creative director
- Book Translator
- Magazine journalist
- Digital Copywriter
- Legacy Writer
- Content Developer
- Editorial Assistant
- Web content manager
- Newspaper journalist
- Lexicographer
- Journalist
- Ghostwriter
- Scriptwriter
University of Windsor. Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Sheridan College. Douglas College. University of New Brunswick.
The colleges in Canada have emerged as one of the top options for pursuing an MFA in creative writing due to their diverse learning programs.
Creative Writing in UK. Creative Writing in USA. Creative Writing in Canada. Creative Writing in Ireland. Creative Writing in Australia.
If you are an individual looking to hone your writing skills and acquire the power to absorb the readers’ attention through your writing, pursuing creative writing courses in Canada is the best path for you! Know about the best-fit university and courses that you can pursue in Canada with the help of our AI Course Finder. Sign up for a free session with our counsellors at Leverage Edu today!
- Best Creative Writing programs in Canada
- Creative writing courses Ontario
- Online creative writing courses Canada
An ardent reader and writer, Gitali loves to create meaningful and well-researched content on studying abroad, scholarships and exploring student life hacks. When she is not busy working, you can find her doodling in the corner or discussing why Seinfeld is the greatest sitcom ever.
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- Graduate Courses

- Degrees Offered: MA in English (streams for Creative Writing, Academic, Gender and Sexuality in Literature), PhD in English (streams for Creative Writing, Academic, Gender and Sexuality in Literature), Direct-Entry PhD
- Application Deadline: Dec. 1 (for PhD); Jan. 8 (for MA). Late applications cannot be considered for the PhD. MA applications can be considered until May 30 but cannot be considered for funding. International applicants should apply by the relevant deadline in order to have the best chance of meeting immigration requirements.
- Study Options: Thesis, Dissertation
- Duration: Twenty months (thesis-based MA), four years (PhD), five years (Direct-entry PhD)
- Entry Term: Fall only
UNB's celebrated English graduate programs offer both creative writing and academic streams of study, helping students reach both their creative and critical potential. The academic MA and PhD programs now also include the opportunity to earn a degree in Gender and Sexuality in Literature. Students feel particularly welcome because of our small class sizes. They gain personal support and invaluable feedback from nationally-acclaimed professors and have opportunities to work with them on research and creative projects and on departmental publications, including Canada's longest continuously published literary journal, The Fiddlehead , and on the student-run, national literary journal, QWERTY .
Our cozy, quiet campus is the perfect workshopping environment for creative writers wanting to develop a book-length manuscript. Our PhD in Creative Writing is one of very few offered in Canada. In the academic streams, students examine important works of literature, undertake original research, and build their critical vocabularies. Their research is supported by excellent library resources. Graduate students in English acquire strong research, writing, editing and communication skills and develop connections with other academics, writers and publications across Canada. Doctoral students also gain exceptional applied teaching experience through the Teaching Apprenticeship Program.
Our graduates go on to become professional writers, editors, journalists, marketers, teachers, professors and researchers, amongst other things.
Creative genres
- Poetry, Fiction, & Creative Non-fiction
- Screenwriting & Playwriting
Research areas
- Canadian Literature, including Atlantic Canadian
- American Literature
- Early Modern, Eighteenth-Century, Romantic, and Nineteenth-Century British Literature
- Postcolonial Literature
- Indigenous Literatures of Turtle Island
- Gender and Sexuality Studies
- Cultural Studies, Film and Popular Culture
- Ecoliterature
Current faculty research
- Creative Writing: Len Falkenstein, Triny Finlay , Rob Gray , David Huebert , Lisa Jodoin , Robert Moore , Sue Sinclair
- American Literature: David Huebert , Stephen Schryer
- Canadian Literature: John Ball , David Creelman , Rob Gray , Triny Finlay, Sue Sinclair
- British Literature: Elizabeth Effinger (Romantics, Nineteenth Century), Miriam Jones (Eighteenth Century), Sarah Maier , Lisa Robertson (Nineteenth Century), Edith Snook (Early Modern, Atlantic World)
- Postcolonial Literature: John Ball
- Indigenous Literatures of Turtle Island: Lisa Jodoin
- Gender and Sexuality Studies: Elizabeth Effinger , Triny Finlay , Lisa Robertson, Edith Snook
- Cultural Studies, Film, and Popular Culture: John Ball , Elizabeth Effinger, R.W. Gray, Stephen Schryer , Edith Snook
- Ecoliterature: Elizabeth Effinger , David Huebert , Sue Sinclair
Current graduate courses
For a complete listing of our graduate course offerings please review our extensive list .
Equity Statement
The Department of English is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion within our community. With graduate admissions, curriculum, and hiring, we strive to develop a learning environment that reflects and affirms the complexity of the broader community that we serve.
We recognize the settler-colonial roots of our institution and are committed to an ongoing process of addressing the embedded colonial power structures in our classrooms and infrastructure.
We welcome and encourage applications from diverse and equity-deserving groups, including (but not limited to) those who have been historically disadvantaged because of race, religion, sexual identity, gender identity and expression, age, disability, and/or socio-economic condition. As a department, we recognize that many people face barriers in post-secondary education that may negatively impact opportunities to succeed. We are committed to thoughtfully considering the full context of an applicant’s life experiences and evaluating their application equitably.
Application requirements
All applicants to the MA program (Creative, Academic, GSL) should hold an honours Bachelor of Arts degree in English (or a similar program with intensive specialization) with a minimum 3.5 average. Applicants to the Gender and Sexuality in Literature stream should have a BA in English with introductory coursework in Gender/Sexuality/Women’s Studies.
The same level of degree with at least B average (North American System) or upper class standing (British System) is normally required for graduates of other universities.
MA applicants are required to submit the following:
- A complete application
- Applicants to the creative writing stream should describe the project, its genre, topic, and approach; you should also address the research you would undertake to complete the project.
- Applicants to the academic or GSL stream should describe the literary texts the project will focus on, the approach, and its contribution to the field.
- in part two (up to one page, single-spaced), explain how your academic or non-academic background and experiences have prepared you to undertake this project and to thrive in the graduate program. How have your life circumstances shaped your academic or creative accomplishments? Is there anything else you want us to know about you?
- An academic writing sample , ideally a research essay (of at least 8 pages double-spaced) from an upper-level undergraduate English literature course. The writing sample should be a clean (unmarked) essay, involving literary analysis and research, to demonstrate that you have the ability to excel in an academic seminar.
- Creative Writing Stream only: a recent creative writing sample of at least 10 pages (double-spaced for prose, poetry may be single-spaced). The creative writing sample should be in the genre in which you wish to work for your thesis. You may submit work in other genres, if you have strengths in multiple forms.
- Three references, at least two academic references
- International applicants whose mother tongue is not English are required to demonstrate that they have a sufficiently good command of the English language to enable them to participate fully in the academic life of the university.
- Proficiency in English may be demonstrated through the completion of a minimum of two years of university level education within the past five years, where the language of both instruction and examination was in English. Where this university is not in a country such as Canada, the United States, Great Britain, Australia, or New Zealand, the required documentation to be submitted will be a copy of the official transcript plus a certified (i.e., by Registrar or equivalent university official) letter indicating the specific courses from the transcript in which both the “instruction and examination were in English.”
- Otherwise, international applicants whose first language is not English must submit language scores that meet or exceed: International English language testing system (Academic IELTS) = Band 7, Paper-based TOEFL = 600 TWE = 4.0, Internet-based TOEFL = 100 TWE = 25, Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB) = 85%, Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees (CanTest) = 4.5, Pearson Test of English = 65
- Students who have questions about English proficiency requirements or who have an alternate means of demonstrating proficiency can contact the English department directly.
All applicants (except for the Direct-entry PhD) should have a GPA of at least 3.7 at the Master’s level.
Academic stream: MA in English is required for admission.
Creative Writing stream: MA in English or MFA in Creative Writing is required. Students with an MFA should have taken a broad range of English courses at either the undergraduate or graduate level.
Gender and Sexuality in Literature stream: MA in English or MA Gender/Women’s Studies is required. Students with an MA in English should have taken some Gender/Sexuality/Women’s Studies courses at either the undergraduate or graduate level; students with an MA in Gender/Women’s Studies should have taken a broad range of English courses at either the undergraduate or graduate level.
Direct-entry PhD: A GPA of at least 4.0 in the final two years of the BA Honours English.
All applicants to the PhD program are required to submit the following:
- A complete application
- Applicants to the academic stream should describe the literary texts the project will focus on, the approach, and its contribution to the field.
- in the second part (up to one page, single-spaced), explain how your academic or non-academic background and experiences have prepared you to undertake this project and to thrive in the graduate program. Is there anything else you want us to know about you?
- An academic writing sample , ideally a graduate-level research paper (10-20 pages) or chapter of an MA thesis. The academic writing sample should be a clean (unmarked) essay, involving literary analysis and research, to demonstrate that you have the ability to excel in an academic seminar and in the academic components of the degree.
- Creative Writing Stream only: a recent creative writing sample of at least 20 pages (double-spaced for prose, poetry may be single-spaced). The creative writing sample should be in the genre in which you wish to work for your thesis. You may submit work in other genres, if you have strengths in multiple forms.
- Three academic references
Admission to the English Graduate Program is limited and very competitive. Because it is based on human and physical resources available to deliver the program of study, admission to the MA or PhD is not guaranteed for those who meet the minimum academic requirements.
Applicants are not required to find a supervisor before applying, although PhD applicants may reach out to potential supervisors if they wish.
For information regarding funding opportunities please review the Financial Aid section on our departmental website.
For more information on our program, contact Lydia Noble , Graduate Program Assistant.
Office: Carleton Hall, Rm. 247
Phone: 1-506-453-4676
Related: Current graduate courses
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Graduate studies

Unique in Canada
UVic's grad program is the only one of three in Canada offering an MFA in writing, rather than an MA in English with a creative-writing option.
We are also the only Canadian institution with an emphasis not only on writing but on the teaching of writing, which is a specialized area of education. You'll take on teaching assistantships to gain experience in evaluating and assisting undergrads, and to acquire actual classroom teaching skills in the area of writing (rather than in English literature). Our program is designed so that teaching will be one of the skills you'll graduate with, to better prepare you for the job market.
MFA in Creative Writing
Our MFA program offers you:
- a supportive environment in which to create a publishable or producible body of work in one of five genres (fiction, creative nonfiction, playwriting, film and poetry), and
- training in the teaching of creative writing at the post-secondary level and for community groups.
You will work closely with internationally known and published faculty who respect and encourage their creative visions and voices. Through participation in workshop classes that simulate an editorial environment of critical feedback and positive reinforcement, you can develop a significant body of work in your genre.
Our department is connected to the lively literary community of Greater Victoria through off-campus readings and events, including the Open Word reading series and the Victoria Festival of Authors .
Find out how to apply or consult our FAQ .
Deadline for applications: December 1.
Get to know our faculty
Check out our faculty profiles to learn more about the writers you could be working with!
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IMAGES
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COMMENTS
25 Master's degrees in Creative Writing in Canada - Mastersportal All disciplines Humanities 369 Ancient History37 Christian Studies17 Creative Writing25 ESL0 General Studies & Classics41 History104 Islamic Studies9 Language Studies82 Languages69 Liberal Arts51 Linguistics56 Literature70 Modern History31 Philosophy & Ethics48
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (MFA) Go to programs search Overview Creative Writers are at the heart of our cultural industries. Poets, novelists, screenwriters, playwrights, graphic novelists, magazine writers: they entertain, inform and inspire.
If you're interested in studying a Creative Writing degree in Canada you can view all 25 Masters programmes. You can also read more about Creative Writing degrees in general, or about studying in Canada. Many universities and colleges in Canada offer English-taught Master's degrees.
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (Distance) (MFA) Go to programs search Overview Creative Writers are at the heart of our cultural industries. Poets, novelists, screenwriters, playwrights, graphic novelists, magazine writers: they entertain, inform and inspire.
The School of Creative Writing is welcoming several new faculty members this year. Anosh Irani and Chelene Knight joined Creative Writing in January, and Alex Marzano-Lesnevich and Austen Osworth will join the School in July. Virtual Writer in Residence Oliver Baez Bendorf brings mystery and transformation to UBC
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at Guelph | College of Arts Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at Guelph Our MFA Program, located in Toronto, the most richly diverse city in the country, welcomes and is structured to nurture and support many voices and wide imaginaries.
Creative Writing graduate and post-graduate programs and degrees offered in Canada. Browse and compare over 10,000 master's, graduate certificate, doctorate (PHD) and residency programs offered in universities, faculties and research centres across Canada. | Canada University Programs | Creative Writing |
For Creative Writing # 5 in North America # 8 in the World Acceptance Rate 53% Enrollment 59,659 Founded 1908 Read more 3. University of Alberta Alberta | Edmonton For Creative Writing # 8 in North America # 12 in the World Acceptance Rate 58% Enrollment 37,500 Founded 1908 Read more 4. York University Ontario | Toronto For Creative Writing
What is a Masters in Creative Writing Residency? in Canada Many creative writing masters programs require students to partake in a residency during their studies. For a short period of time, you could be required to live and work on the campus of the university you're studying at.
Master of Arts in English - Creative Writing At University of Toronto Toronto , Canada THE world university rank: 18 Course qualification Masters Degree Entry score 7.0 Total course fee INR 2,135,324 ? Ontario Graduate Certificate in Content Strategy At Humber Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning Toronto , Canada Course qualification
Best Masters in Writing Graduate Programs in Canada Review requirements for Literature & Writing degrees and graduate schools. 2023 - 2024. ... Usually offered as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing, these programs may appeal to students interested in cultivating their own writing style and voice, as well as learn what editors and ...
Writing (MFA) As one of three programs in Canada offering an MFA in Writing, this program emphasizes both how to write and how to teach creative writing. You'll focus on developing and perfecting your work in one of five genres: fiction, creative nonfiction, playwriting, screenwriting or poetry.
English - Creative Writing (MA) Program overview Fast-track your skills in the company of other writers. Pursue your thesis with a professor whose expertise complements your area of interest. Take literature seminars that broaden your understanding of others' work and your own.
You haven't completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAMasters, finish your profile and receive these benefits: Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers; winners will be notified every month.*; Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition; Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, application tips and much more; Early access to our physical and virtual ...
As part of one of the largest Creative Writing programs in Canada, you can learn the essentials of excellent writing and put them into practice. Whether you aspire to write a novel or short story, explore poetry, pen a script or screenplay, or explore other writing styles, we have the courses you need to improve your skills.
We offer a PhD in English with a Creative Writing option. You may be permitted to submit a substantial book-length manuscript of poetry or fiction for the PhD thesis in English. However, because of the high standards expected for such a project and the Department's limited resources in the area of creative writing, permission to undertake this ...
The MA in Creative Writing (thesis option) is a non-terminal degree. This means that students can choose to pursue an additional, studio-based MFA in Creative Writing, or go on to a PhD in Creative Writing . After course work in both academic and creative writing seminars, students write a thesis in the genre of their choice (poetry, fiction ...
You haven't completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAMasters, finish your profile and receive these benefits: Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers; winners will be notified every month.*; Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition; Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, application tips and much more; Early access to our physical and virtual ...
This creative writing course in Canada is a 200-hour certificate course that allows you to hone your core skills in creative writing. It will provide you with knowledge about various aspects of writing that include editing, proofreading and help you further in content development in various genres.
English. Degrees Offered: MA in English (streams for Creative Writing, Academic, Gender and Sexuality in Literature), PhD in English (streams for Creative Writing, Academic, Gender and Sexuality in Literature), Direct-Entry PhD Application Deadline: Dec. 1 (for PhD); Jan. 8 (for MA).Late applications cannot be considered for the PhD. MA applications can be considered until May 30 but cannot be ...
Graduate studies Our master's program lets you explore new fields, such as the graphic novel and interactive media, while also focusing on your genre of interest and learning how to teach creative writing. Unique in Canada. UVic's grad program is the only one of three in Canada offering an MFA in writing, rather than an MA in English with a ...