MFA in Creative Writing
The
course consists of one year of fulltime or two years of part-time
study after the BA (Honours) or similar degree, and involves the composition
of a project in poetry, prose fiction or drama under the supervision
of two staff members. Examination is by oral defence and a 5,000-word
reflexive essay.
Admission
Applicants should have an Honours degree in English, or should apply to the Registrar, University of Canterbury, for admission 'ad eundum statum' (i.e. admission with what is deemed the equivalent of an Honours degree in English, or for special admission, on the grounds that substantial achievement in published writing is deemed the equivalent of an Honours degree. Preference will be given in all cases to students who have completed some or all of the following courses in the English Programme, or what are deemed their equivalents in other institutions: ENGL 114, ENGL 118, ENGL 220, ENGL 231, ENGL 233, ENGL 350, and whatever ENGL 400-level option is offered for a creative writing project. It is emphasized that these courses are a preference, not a requirement, and each application will be assessed on its merits.
Application Process
Students should discuss possible topics with the Honours Coordinator or Christina Stachurski or any other interested staff member. Applications should include a succinct outline of the proposed topic and a substantial writing sample (a draft chapter of prose fiction, for example).
Supervision
Supervision will involve regular meetings with two supervisors, with the purpose of supplying commentary and direction on the basis of the student's work. Candidates will be expected to give a report on their progress and readings of work-in-progress at the School's postgraduate conference.
Please read the information on the MA Thesis as well.