OVERVIEW
On this three-year course you complete a Bachelor of Applied Arts (BAppA) majoring in Creative Writing, within the highly regarded Arts Faculty at Whitireia.
What this degree covers
If you're serious about writing, the degree will help you develop your skills in various kinds of writing, leading to creating a publishable manuscript by the end of year three.
In the first year you work in short fiction, script writing, poetry, and non-fiction; this allows you to discover where your strengths and interests lie. In the second year you focus on your selected genre, and create a first draft manuscript, working in a workshop environment and with a mentor. In the third year you research and create a major body of work suitable for submission to a publisher or equivalent.
Hours, extra costs, facilities
Year One: Classes are held between 9.00am and 3.00pm, 4 days per week. One day is a self-study day.
Year Two and Three: Generally one day per week depending on the chosen genre.
There may be some extra costs for attendance at performances and purchase of books.
Computers are available for all students.
Academic staff
All tutors are experienced, practicing writers. You will work with a range of writers who all have their own style and approach. This is a strength of the programme.
In addition to the core tutors, you will meet with a number of other practising writers, as guest speakers and mentors.
For an overview of The Creative Writing Programme and frequently asked questions.
How to apply
Send a brief CV, examples of recent writing (up to five pages) and a letter explaining why you want to do the course. Writing samples may be fiction, poetry or non-fiction.
Please do not bind or staple your application.
Whitireia Degree Entry requirements
A minimum of 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher made up of:
14 credits in an approved Level 3 or higher subject
14 credits in a second approved Level 3 or higher subject
14 credits in no more than two other approved Level 3 subjects or domains
PLUS
8 credits at Level 2 or higher in English or te reo Māori with at least 4 credits in reading and 4 credits in writing
14 credits at Level 1 or higher in mathematics/pāngarau
Discretionary Entrance for students under 20 years of age
Students under 20 who have NCEA credits at Level 2 or higher but who do not meet the undergraduate degree requirements may apply for discretionary entrance. Each application will be assessed on its merits and entrance granted at the Dean's discretion.
A minimum of 56 NCEA credits at Level 2 from no more than 4 subjects, including 8 credits at Level 2 in English or te reo Māori (4 credits reading and 4 credits writing)
14 credits at Level 1 in mathematics/pāngarau
Supporting recommendation from the applicant's school or workplace
Entry requirements for students 20 years of age and over (Special Admission)
- Open entry for New Zealand citizens and those who hold Permanent Residence
Or
Have completed a relevant Foundation Programme at Level 4.
Evidence of suitability based on:
- Interview
- Audition/Portfolio in their chosen Major