Frequently Asked Questions:
Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing
What if I am just interested in writing a book/script, but not interested in a qualification?
You will complete the Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing, but all the work is focussed on your chosen genre.
Do I have to have a degree to do this course?
No.
Can I get a Bachelor of Applied Arts (Creative Writing) by doing the Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing?
Yes, if you complete the extra core credits you missed out on in year one, two and three. In some circumstances you may be able to cross credit or be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). An RPL application has to be made within six weeks of beginning a course. You need to provide written evidence and pay a fee per module. This can be discussed at your interview.
What can be considered as RPL?
Relevant work experience or study.
Who are the tutors?
All tutors are experienced practising writers. See the ‘Staff’ tab on our home page. In addition to the core tutors, you will meet with a number of other practising writers, as guest speakers and mentors.
Who have the readers/mentors been in the past?
Barbara Else, Chris Else, Renee, Adrienne Jansen, Norman Bilbrough, Eirlys Hunter, Pat Quinn, Fleur Beale, Craig Cliff, Phillip Mann, Tina Makeriti, Anna Taylor, Lesley Marshall, Elspeth Sandys, Jane Parkin.
What are the fees?
Domestic fees for 2012: $4,695
International fees for 2012: $18,900 NZD
Are there extra costs on top of fees?
There may be some extra costs for attendance at performances and purchase of books. Allow approx $200. From 1 January 2012, membership in the Whitireia Independent Students Association (WISA) will be voluntary. Whitireia New Zealand and WISA are working together to set up processes for this change.
Where do I get information on Student Allowance and Student Loans?
They are administered through Studylink at the Ministry of Social Development.
Do I need to have my own computer?
Yes.
RETURN TO Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing for course outline and student quotes
What is the difference between the Diploma in Creative Writing (Advanced) and the Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing?
The end of year assessment differs. For the Diploma in Creative Writing (Advanced) you must complete a manuscript to first draft standard, and for the Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing you must complete it to publishable standard. View this diagram to see all the qualifications offered by the Whitireia Creative Writing Programme.
How many manuscripts get published/produced?
Forty eight books and scripts, and many shorter works have come from graduates of the Whitireia Writing Programme.
What do Level 5/Level 6/Level 7 mean?
They indicate the level of study. Students in their last year at secondary school (year 13) are usually studying at Level 3. The first year of the Bachelor of Applied Arts (Creative Writing) is Level 5, the second year is Level 6, and the last year is Level 7. Post-graduate study is Level 8.
Where is the course held?
At the Whitireia Campus, 15 Dixon St, Central Wellington.
RETURN TO Graduate Diploma in Creative Writing for course outline and student quotes