Why study with us?
We're ranked 23rd in the world for Arts and Humanities in the 2021 QS World University Rankings by Subject.
Our graduates are ranked 1st in Australia and 5th in the world for employability by the QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022.
In response to COVID-19, the University of Sydney has reviewed the availability of courses to be delivered remotely.
This course will be available for students to study remotely whilst the Australian border remains closed due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. Please note that some units of study that are not essential to completing the degree may not be available to be studied remotely.
About this course
The Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing invites you to explore and develop your skills in fiction, non-fiction, screenwriting, poetry and more. Throughout your studies you will gain a deep understanding of theories and histories of writing.
This degree offers intimate access to Sydney's literary life, including major literary and cultural events and institutions with which the University has close ties, such as the Sydney Writers' Festival. You will experience a constant calendar of readings, performances and community events, as well as a host of celebrated visitors in a superb research environment.
We support all kinds of literary ambition in a setting that builds capacity, encourages diversity and experimentation, and supports professional writing. Fundamental to this degree are the core skills of writing, structuring and editing.
We offer the most research-focused creative writing program in Australia, built on our strong commitment to integrating creative writing and critical reading. The English Department at the University of Sydney is one of the world's leading centres of literary practice and research, with a thriving graduate coursework and research program.
Our teachers are leading writers, critics and editors. The poetry editors of the three leading Australian literary journals are on our staff: - Southerly (Kate Lilley) - Meanjin (Judith Beveridge) - Overland (Peter Minter).
For academic requirements check the ‘Admission requirements’ section on this page.
You can apply online via the application portal. When you are ready to apply, select the ‘Apply’ button on this course page. Visit the How to apply page for other important information.
Standard closing dates:
Semester 1 - 31 January of the commencing year
Semester 2 - 15 July of the commencing year
We strongly encourage applicants to apply as early as possible, offers are made on a rolling basis and places are limited. Separate scholarship deadlines apply - check the scholarships website for details.
Semester 1 (February) and Semester 2 (August)
You can apply online via the application portal. When you are ready to apply, select the ‘Apply’ button on this course page. Visit the How to apply page for other important information.
Standard closing dates:
Semester 1 - 15 January of the commencing year
Semester 2 - 25 June of the commencing year
We strongly encourage international applicants to apply as early as possible to allow time for visa and travel arrangements. Separate scholarship deadlines may apply - check the scholarships website for details.
Semester 1 (March) and Semester 2 (August)
Under normal progression, a full-time student completes prescribed units of study to the value of 24 credit points per semester. Part-time students may undertake prescribed units of study up to the value of 12 credit points per semester. You are required to attend all lectures, tutorials and other activities prescribed for your units of study.
Admission to candidature to the Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing requires:
You can progress from the Graduate Certificate to a Graduate Diploma or Masters, or from a Graduate Diploma to Masters in the same subject area, after successful completion of the shorter course.
If you are interested in improving your skills in creative writing and understanding theories and histories of writing, this course will suit you. Some Creative Writing students have become published writers during or after their candidature or have found careers in publishing and editing as well as teaching.
