Bachelor of Creative Arts majoring in Creative Writing

Undergraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Magill

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Program code

BCRAR

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$41,300

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115689F

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Requirement	Score
Australia	ATAR	75
Bangladesh	Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.85
China	Gaokao	65%
China	Maple Leaf Education Systems World School Program	67%
Global	International Baccalaureate	26
Hong Kong	Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	17
India	CBSE and CISCE	75
India	State Board Examinations	85
Indonesia	SMA III	78%
Kenya	Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia	Matrikulasi	2.78
Malaysia	Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.78
Malaysia	United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	20
Nepal	National Examinations Board (NEB)	3.01
Phillippines	High School Diploma (Grade 12) (Academic Track) K12	87%
Singapore	Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	8
Sri Lanka	GCE A Levels	9
Taiwan	GSAT %	65%
Thailand	Matayom 6	3.40
UK / Global	GCE Advanced Levels	8
UK / Global	NCUK	8
USA / Global	Advanced Placement (AP)	8
USA / Global	America College Test (ACT)	22
USA / Global	Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)	1130
Vietnam	Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thôxwng (Vietnamese Year 12)	8

Why Bachelor of Creative Arts?

Can poetry change the world?

For millennia, humans have used stories to educate, entertain, and inspire. Stories play an important role in shaping human beliefs, values and culture – and help us make sense of the world.

Creative writing focuses on storytelling, character development, and emotional engagement. It can take many forms – from fiction such as novels, short stories, poetry, and screenplays to creative non-fiction such as memoirs or travel writing. The act of writing can also be a deeply personal and emotional process, requiring vulnerability.

If wordsmithery is your wheelhouse, the Bachelor of Creative Arts majoring in Creative Writing is for you.

Overview

Explore the big themes: love, death, power, conflict, identity, free will vs fate. How did the writing masters of yesterday tackle them? Learn how they went about their craft, and then give it your own slant.

In the Bachelor of Creative Arts majoring in Creative Writing you’ll learn to write a beginning, middle and end – with a clear plot across multiple genres. Share your worldview with others to make connections and evoke empathy in readers.

Push the boundaries of imagination and create new worlds for your readers. Experiment with language, voice, structure and form. Play with themes and symbols and shine a light on important topics to prompt readers to think differently or take action. Incite informed conversation and thoughtful reflection as you contribute to social commentary.

Key features

Reflect on your craft as you write, revise and polish your own works to a high standard.
Focus on imagination, originality, and expression. Develop your own tone and style.
Learn the process professional writers use: framing your project, planning and doing the research, meeting deadlines.
Explore how writing has changed over time in different literary forms.
Engage deeply and critically with key creative and theoretical texts. Consider their global and historical contexts.
Become part of a community of writers as you share your words.

What you'll learn

There’s more to the Bachelor of Creative Arts majoring in Creative Writing than writing. You’ll learn to spot opportunities in Australia's cultural sector. Consider the institutions and policies that shape it. Join the debate on how culture – in the form of values, beliefs, customs, and the arts – affects the economy and vice versa. Take a global perspective on arts production around the world. Hone transferable skills that will be of value throughout your career.

Choose your own adventure with a wide range of electives. Take core courses in:

First year

Creative worlds: industries, identities and opportunities
Creative writing essentials 1: prose, poetry, performance
Writing life: from concept to practice.

Second year

Creative solutions: reimagining projects
Creative writing essentials 2: narrative theories, forms and approaches to practice
Fiction: theory and practice
Screenwriting: theory and practice.

Third year

Creative arts professional experience
Creative writing essentials 3: the writer as researcher
Experimental forms: theory and practice
Poetry: theory and practice.

Majors

The Bachelor of Creative Arts is also available with majors in the following:

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

30 units for Core courses, and
96 units for 2 Majors from Majors, and
6 units for all Work integrated learning, and
12 units for Electives

Complete 30 units comprising:

18 units for all Common core, and
12 units for all Program core

	Course code	Units
Course name UG Common Core 1	Course code AUXX1000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 2	Course code AUXX2000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 3	Course code AUXX3000	Units 6

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Creative Worlds: Industries, Identities and Opportunities	Course code CREA1000	Units 6
	Course name Creative Solutions: Reimagining Projects	Course code CREA2001	Units 6

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Creative Writing Essentials 1: Prose, Poetry, Performance	Course code WRIT1000	Units 6
Course name Writing Life: From Concept to Practice	Course code WRIT1001	Units 6
Course name Screenwriting: Theory and Practice	Course code MDIA2016	Units 6
Course name Creative Writing Essentials 2: Narrative Theories, Forms and Approaches to Practice	Course code WRIT2000	Units 6
Course name Fiction: Theory and Practice	Course code WRIT2001	Units 6
Course name Experimental Forms: Theory and Practice	Course code WRIT3001	Units 6
Course name Creative Writing Essentials 3: The Writer as Researcher	Course code WRIT3004	Units 6
Course name Poetry: Theory and Practice	Course code WRIT3005	Units 6

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Creative Arts Professional Experience	Course code CREA3901	Units 6

Complete 12 units comprising:

12 units for all Free electives

Complete one Major from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Creative Industries	Course code CREIBCRAR	Units 48
Course name Performing Arts	Course code PERFBCRAR	Units 48
Course name Festivals	Course code FESTBCRAR	Units 48
Course name Comicbook Creation	Course code COMIBCRAR	Units 48
Course name Digital Media and Web Design	Course code DIGMBCRAR	Units 48
Course name Games Design and Production	Course code GAMEBCRAR	Units 48
Course name Immersive Media	Course code IMEDBCRAR	Units 48
Course name Screen Production	Course code SCRPBCRAR	Units 48

Career outcomes

Beyond writing as an author or novelist, there are so many places creative writing can take you. You could write scripts for film or theatrical performances. Perhaps you’ll help businesses create engaging content for their websites or maybe you’ll use your strong communication skills to write reports, user manuals, product guides and technical documents. If you love games, why not write for them? Create storylines, worlds, dialogue and scripts for video games.

Creative writers gain employment in all kinds of fields including:

Education
Entertainment and gaming
Media and marketing
Publishing.

Other potential careers might include:

Copywriter
Editor
Ghost writer
Grant writer.

Industry Trends

Being skilled in creative writing and communication is relevant in many careers. A LinkedIn report found that communication is the most in-demand soft skill across industries, with 92% of hiring managers saying it’s critical to hiring decisions (LinkedIn, 2019). Another study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) revealed that 73.4% of employers prioritise candidates with strong written communication skills across roles (NACE, 2023). A Nace 2024 report also indicates that communication skills, including both written and verbal competencies, are among the most sought-after qualities (NACE, 2024). With your writing skills, you’ll be an in-demand professional across a range of sectors.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: