Major overview
Whether you want to be a poet or an author or connect with audiences through writing, a major in Creative Writing can help you hone your skills.
In this major you'll learn how to bring ideas, characters and stories to life and gain the knowledge and techniques that writers need in the age of digital communication and entertainment. You’ll develop skills across various writing styles, including fiction, poetry and experimental and emerging genres.
You’ll benefit from the advice of Curtin’s experienced tutors (many of whom are acclaimed authors) and through critical engagement with your peer group. You’ll also have opportunities to publish your short stories and poems in both internal publications, such as the Curtin Student Guild’s Grok Magazine, and external publications.
Creative writing is offered as part of the Bachelor of Arts. You can enhance your studies with a second major or choose from a range of elective units that support your career goals. You can also study this major as part of a double degree (see combinations below).
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information on units and course structure, visit our Handbook.
Why study at Curtin?
#1 in WA
Curtin ranks first in WA for Communication and Media studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2026).
Real-world experience
You’ll have opportunities to publish your short stories and poems in both internal publications, such as the Curtin Student Guild’s Grok Magazine, and external publications.
Industry links
Graduates of this course have gone on to have successful writing careers and won national literary awards. Our alumni include Ruth McIver, Tim Winton, Jon Doust, Deborah Robertson, Brooke Davis and Tracy Ryan.
How to study this major
You can study this major as part of any of the degrees below. A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. The units may vary depending on the degree you choose.
Career outcomes
Talented creative writers are valued highly in digital communication, marketing and entertainment organisations.
Career examples
- Copywriter / writer
- Content creator
- Editor
- Publisher
Industries
- Publishing
- Media and entertainment
- Advertising and marketing
- Creative arts
Why study at Curtin?
#1 in WA
Curtin ranks first in WA for Communication and Media studies (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2026).
Real-world experience
You’ll have opportunities to publish your short stories and poems in both internal publications, such as the Curtin Student Guild’s Grok Magazine, and external publications.
Industry links
Graduates of this course have gone on to have successful writing careers and won national literary awards. Our alumni include Ruth McIver, Tim Winton, Jon Doust, Deborah Robertson, Brooke Davis and Tracy Ryan.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this major either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.
For full entry requirements, fees and information for international students, visit the course page.
Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.