Frequently asked questions 

Is there a selection process for courses in Creative Writing?

Yes, there is. At Master’s and PhD level, students who have the requisite degrees also need to submit a portfolio of their own creative work as part of the application process. However, they should first contact Prof. Medalie to find out if they have the requisite qualifications.
 

What should the format of the portfolios be?

Students are required to hand in at least twenty poems, or five short stories, or a substantial part of a novel, or a few scenes from a drama/ film script or screenplay. Prospective students should contact Professor Medalie directly. 

Professor David Medalie
Humanities Building 16-18
Tel: +27 12 420 2421/012 420 2716
Fax: +27 12 420 5191
Email: [email protected]
 
 

In which language(s) may I write?

You may write in any of the following languages: English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, Setswana, isiNdebele, Sepedi, French and German.
 

Which genres are offered in the Master’s and PhD programmes?

Poetry, prose (short stories, novel) and drama (plays for theatre, screenplays).
 

What is the duration of the Master’s and PhD?

This depends on you. M.A. students should aim to complete the degree in two years but may have a third year if they need it. PhD should aim to complete the degree in three years but may have a fourth year if they need it. 
 

What are the added benefits of taking an MA or PhD in Creative Writing?

You will obtain a Master’s or PhD degree, you will have a publishable or performable literary text, and you will have a scholarly work (the dissertation or thesis), some of which may be published in a journal.