About the programme
This research activity is associated with the discipline's Contemporary Cultures of Writing Research Group. The core activity in this type of PhD study is the creation of a book-length work of literature (or script equivalent) and an accompanying critical reflective thesis, which elucidates the research and creative strategies involved in making the work.
In this way the essence of the Creative Writing PhD at The Open University UK is research through creative practice. The final creative work emerges from and embodies the research questions, and the decisions and discoveries made while producing the work. We welcome applications from candidates suitably qualified and with appropriate writing experience and ability.
Key information
- Duration
- Full-time: 36 months (3–4 years)
- Part-time: 72 months (6–8 years)
- Start dates & application deadlines: Starting October 2027 — Apply before Jan 2027
- Language: English
- English requirement: TOEFL iBT 87
- Delivered: On Campus
- Campus Location: Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
- Disciplines: Creative Writing
Programme Structure
Potential research projects:
- Fiction – novel and short stories
- Creative Nonfiction – including life writing
- Poetry
- Script for stage, radio or screen
Admission requirements
Academic requirements
GPA: Upper Second Class
English requirements
TOEFL iBT: 87
General requirements
Minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) and a strong academic and creative record, usually evidenced by an MA in Creative Writing and relevant publications. If you are not a UK citizen, you may need to prove your knowledge of English.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are shown in AUD and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.
- International (non-residents): 23,889 AUD / year (≈ 12,705 GBP / year)
- Domestic (citizens or residents): 9,413 AUD / year (≈ 5,006 GBP / year)
Living costs
Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
1,594–2,529 AUD / month. The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Scholarships
PhD scholarship opportunities are available for Creative Writing, including the Fulbright U.S. Student Program, ServiceScape Scholarship, ACES Scholarships, Erasmus+ Grants for study mobility, Scholarships for PhD Students, Boustany Astronomy PhD Scholarship, Amberscholar Scholarship, Annual Video Contest Scholarship, Voice Talent Online Scholarship, Dream Chaser Scholarship, Scholarship for students with disabilities, Commonwealth Shared Scholarship – University Bids, Grants of the Leopold Figl Foundation for students with residence in Lower Austria, The Annual IELTS from 6 to 9 Scholarship, and the Tobacco Harm Reduction Scholarship Programme.