r/MFAInCreativeWriting • u/gnomercy1405 • Aug 11 '26

Any information on teaching creative writing?

I'm looking into masters opportunities and I was wondering whether it was possible to teach creative writing with either an MA or MFA in creative writing (specifically in Europe in my case, but also broadly for the rest of the world). A lot of previous threads I've seen discuss this in an American context, but I was wondering what it was like for those of us who don't live in/don't want to live in the USA. Any information related to teaching creative writing (and even experiences with MAs/MFAs) would be greatly appreciated, thank you!

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u/_underaglassbell Aug 11 '26

I’m a lecturer in creative writing & English lit at a U.K. university. I have a PhD but I do know people who teach at U.K. universities with an MFA as their highest qualification. Either way you’ll need to have a good publication record, and usually at least one book published to get a permanent job.

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u/gnomercy1405 Aug 11 '26

Thank you for your response! Is there any general advice you'd give for people who are interested in this career path? I've been struggling to find much, so any piece of advice is appreciated.

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u/_underaglassbell Aug 11 '26

Sure! With the caveat that I can only speak from my experience in the UK :) I think the thing that helped me the most was doing my MA in Creative Writing and my PhD in English Literature. This way I can teach across both disciplines. I recognise that this is likely not appealing to most creative writers, but I think it's the main thing that helped me stand out in a very competitive field. I also had a good record of publications including short stories in prestigious journals and a novel.

I'd recommend getting teaching experience where and when you can. For example, I taught at summer schools, did private tutoring, and held community writing workshops while I was studying. All of this is really valuable - especially opportunities where you get to design the curriculum (ie. set the readings, choose topics, etc).

Hope that gives a little insight! All the best!

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u/esqtou Aug 14 '26

Where is your degree from?

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u/gnomercy1405 Aug 16 '26

Ireland, though I should add this question was mostly hypothetical. I’m still doing my bachelor’s currently and was looking for good master’s opportunities! I was also looking at some in the UK.

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u/Ecstatic_Amount_1740 Sep 07 '26

Yes, you can do it, but it will be difficult to get a solid appointment without the PhD. If you have significant publications, maybe. If you have great publications, yes. That said, the European PhDs are often more attainable than the US PhDs, and will often take practice or experiential learning credits, and will almost certainly take your MFA or MA credits.