Key facts
Duration
1-2 years full time or part time equivalent depending on your entry point
Locations
Course overview
The Master of Arts (Writing and Literature) gives candidates the opportunity to undertake advanced study in the disciplines of Writing and Literature. Students undertake both relevant coursework to their specialisation and a substantial research project (thesis) under the supervision of an academic with a professional research record.
The Master of Arts (Writing and Literature) offers study in a unique combination of literary, professional and creative writing options, together with the possibility for cross-disciplinary explorations. Students can choose between specialisations in the areas of Children's Literature, Creative Writing, Literary Studies and Professional Writing. Students are paired with an academic or professional staff member working – and nationally recognised – in their specialist field. This partnership provides students with mentoring through the extended research project (thesis), which is one of the highlights of this course. The unique research pathway in the Master of Arts (Writing and Literature) provides candidates with a new level of intellectual stimulation and personal enrichment and gives them the opportunity to contribute to a wider debate within their field, often through publication. The research training and skills acquired in this course enhance students’ future career prospects in a broad range of occupations and ensures they are eligible to apply for entry to higher research programs.
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Master of Arts (Writing and Literature)
- Year
2017 course information
- Approval status
- This course is approved by the University under the Higher Education Standards Framework.
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 9.
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Course structure
To qualify for the Master of Arts (Writing and Literature), a student must successfully complete 16 credit points of study comprising:
- 6 credit points of study in either of the following configurations:
- 6 credit points from one of the specialisation options (Children's Literature, Creative Writing, Literary Studies, Professional Writing); or
- 6 credit points of cross-disciplinary study comprising ALW740, ALL743, 2 credit points of Literature units (Children's Literature and/or Literary Studies), and 2 credit points of units of Writing units (Creative Writing and/or Professional Writing)
- 7 credit points of core units
- 3 credit points of elective units
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
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Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship can open the door to new opportunities. Whether you have something unique to offer or simply need a bit of extra support to reach your goals, we’re here to help. Scholarships can assist with course fees, living costs and study materials – so you can focus on achieving your best. Explore the range of opportunities and find the right fit for you.
Postgraduate bursary
We love welcoming Deakin alumni back to continue their journey with us. If you're starting a postgraduate award course, you may be eligible for a 10% discount on your enrolment fees, applied per unit. It's our way of supporting your next step.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
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Research information
Students will undertake 7 credit points of research units consisting of research methods, theory and research-based project units where they will be required to complete a thesis comprising a creative production AND exegesis of 8000 words OR a written dissertation of 18000-20000 words.
Pathways
Alternate exits
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
| Discipline specific knowledge and capabilities | Acquire an integrated knowledge of a range of relevant writing and literature theories, concepts, and approaches to the critical analysis, creation and/or production of texts. Acquire advanced understanding of the cultural, historical, professional and/or stylistic differences and contexts of the domains of writing and literature, which include Creative Writing, Children’s Literature, Professional Writing and/or Literary Studies. |
| Communication | Demonstrate specialised command of the technical and aesthetic elements of different forms of writing, including proficient use of critical, theoretical and professional vocabularies and language to create, define, interpret, argue and fluently transmit ideas in scholarly, professional and/or creative texts produced for a variety of audiences and contexts. |
| Digital literacy | Master generic, academic, bibliographic and industry-specific digital communication technologies to research, produce and present scholarly and creative works. Use judgement and discrimination in the identification and selection of relevant and credible information sources and with regard for their ethical use. |
| Critical thinking | Produce creative and critical works which address complex issues and ideas with rigor in the conduct of supporting research and presentation of evidence; Use mature critical judgment in the synthesis and application of theory; and mastery of the critical, technical and creative skills required to generate and evaluate texts produced by self and others. |
| Problem solving | Employ expert knowledge and skills in the use of specialist theoretical, historical and contemporary analytical and creative approaches to writing and literature that is reflected in the design and execution of creative and scholarly solutions to a range of technical, professional, aesthetic, critical and/or ideological problems. |
| Self-management | Demonstrate high-level initiative and independence, responsibility, accountability and a continued commitment to learning and skill development in writing and literature and as a reflective learner and practitioner in scholarly, industry and/or professional contexts. |
| Teamwork | Demonstrate commitment to ethical and collaborative participation in scholarly, learning and/or industry settings and active contribution to the accomplishment of mutual learning and professional goals. |
| Global citizenship | Develop and informed knowledge of the ethics of writing and interpreting textual representations of diverse groups, and insight into the influence of changing social, cultural and ideological factors on the production and consumption of creative, critical and professional texts. Use the highest standards of ethical conduct and social responsibility when engaging in scholarly, creative and/or professional practice in the local, national and international community. |
| Approved by Faculty Board October 2015 | |
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