Top UK Universities For Creative Writing - Ranking & League Table

Looking to Study Creative Writing in the UK?
top uk universities for creative writing

Here’s our full guide on the top universities for Creative Writing in the UK. We have curated a list of high-ranking universities which offer affordable, globally-recognized qualifications for Creative Writing in English.

Table of Contents

UK University League Table for Creative Writing (Updated 2024)

The University League Table for Creative Writing below displays the top-ranking universities for studying Creative Writing in English in the UK. We’ve compiled a list of universities you should look out for, based on UK and global rankings, as well as entry requirements.

UniversityCourse nameFees (Per Annum)DurationSubject RankingUK RankingTEF rating
University of WarwickBA (Hons) English Literature and Creative Writing£23,3903 Years311Silver
University of BirminghamBA (Hons) English Language and Creative Writing£21,7803 Years114Gold
Newcastle UniversityBA (Hons) English Literature with Creative Writing£21,0003 Years730Gold
Lancaster UniversityBA (Hons) English Language and Creative Writing£21,9803 Years610Gold
University of LeedsEnglish Literature with Creative Writing BA (Hons)£22,2503 Years520Gold
University of KentEnglish Literature and Creative Writing - BA (Hons)£18,6003 Years1048Silver

What do you Study in Creative Writing?

Creative writing is a form of artistic expression through writing, typically a work of fiction, poetry, or a play. Degrees in the subject equip students with the skills, knowledge, and critical thinking they need to excel in their craft. This is often studied together with English literature which complements the students’ understanding of fictional works.

Careers for Creative Writing Graduates

What can you do with a degree in Creative Writing? Many graduates find employment in roles such as:

  • Copywriter
  • Creative lead
  • Editor/Writer
  • Film or stage directors
  • Journalist
  • Screenwriter
  • Talent manager
  • Web content manager

Top Creative Writing Schools In The UK

Birmingham offers a joint programme in English Literature and Creative Writing. Creative writers with an interest in English Literature should consider Birmingham’s programme as it is one of the top universities for the subject.

One of the top universities for Creative Writing in the UK is Lancaster University. According to 2024 rankings, Lancaster University is ranked as the 6th best university in the UK for the Bachelor’s programme in Creative Writing.

You can read more about Lancaster University’s Creative Writing course on their website or read more about the application process via UCAS here.

Need advice about applying to a UK university? We are here to help. Book a free appointment with us now!

Recommended Creative Writing Schools In The UK

The University of Nottingham is an excellent choice for those interested in studying Creative Writing. The university is part of the Russell Group and is also a popular campus among Malaysian students. Nottingham consistently performs well in university rankings for Creative Writing, English, and other related disciplines.

The University of Leeds offers a three-year programme in Creative Writing. The renowned university is highly ranked in the UK and it is among the top 100 universities of the world. Leeds’ programme starts from £22,250 per year for international students.

The University of Kent is ranked as one of the best in the UK for Creative Writing programmes. Kent offers one of the most affordable programmes on our list, at just £18,600 a year for international students. It is definitely a great destination for those interested in studying Creative Writing.

How To Apply To Study Creative Writing In The UK?

Step 1: Choose A University

The first step is to look for popular and high-ranking Universities in the UK that offer courses you are interested in. Refer to the table above to start your search. Here are some things to consider when applying:

  • Location
  • Employability/Graduate prospects
  • Fees
  • Entry requirements
  • University Ranking

Step 2: Preparations

Once you have narrowed down the search to your top five universities, the first step is to prepare necessary documents and forms. This includes school leaving certificates, exam results, the UCAS application form and a written Personal Statement, among other documents that may be required.

Step 3: Submit UCAS Application

The application process for UK universities differs from local universities as applications go through an organisation known as UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS handles all admission applications to UK universities, including those submitted by international candidates like you.

To ensure a better chance of getting accepted, it is important that you prepare all the necessary documents and fill out all forms correctly. We also recommend that you apply for multiple universities simultaneously to ensure that you get your preferred offers. Read our full guide on UCAS here

More about UCAS

The entire application process might be daunting and lengthy for some, so let us help you. Make a free appointment with us today for professional assistance in submitting applications to your prefered UK universities.

UK Creative Writing School Entry Requirements

Here are some of the common entry requirements and tests a student has to pass before being accepted at a UK university to study Creative Writing.

  1. English Language Test requirement – such as IELTS or TOEFL.
  2. Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland for Scottish Universities)
  3. Health checks.
  4. Entrance interviews.
  5. Personal statement. This is a supporting document and part of your application to a UK university. Usually, you will write about what you hope to achieve studying at the course, what you plan to do after graduating and why you are applying for this specific university.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will learn the necessary skills, knowledge, and critical thinking required to excel as a creative writer through the study and practice of writing as a form of artistic expression.

The top university for Creative Writing in the UK is the University of Birmingham, according to 2024 rankings.

The common entry requirements for studying Creative Writing in the UK include English language tests, criminal record declarations, health checks, entrance interviews and submission of a personal statement.

The tuition fees for Creative Writing degrees in the UK range between £19,000 to £24,000 per annum for international students, depending on the university. The ranking and location of a university might also affect tuition fee costs.

The UCAS deadline for Creative Writing programmes is 15 January on the year of admission.

Get Free UK Creative Writing Course Application Assistance

If you would like a free consultation on any step of the application process, contact us today or come visit us at our office in Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur. Book an appointment with us now!

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