Best Creative Writing Programs in South African Universities
South Africa’s vibrant literary scene, rich with diverse voices and stories, makes it an inspiring place to pursue creative writing. Whether you aspire to craft novels, poetry, screenplays, or creative nonfiction, the right university program can nurture your talent and sharpen your skills.
Why Study Creative Writing in South Africa?
South Africa’s unique cultural tapestry and history of storytelling—from oral traditions to contemporary literature—provide a fertile ground for budding writers. Here’s why it’s an exceptional choice:
Literary Heritage: Home to Nobel laureates like Nadine Gordimer and J.M. Coetzee, South Africa inspires creativity.
Diverse Perspectives: Programs reflect the country’s multicultural identity, fostering inclusive narratives.
Practical Focus: Many courses emphasize hands-on writing, workshops, and publishing opportunities.
Global Recognition: Degrees from top universities are respected worldwide, opening doors to international careers.
With growing demand for skilled writers in publishing, media, and digital content creation, these programs offer both artistic fulfillment and professional potential.
Top Creative Writing Programs in South African Universities
Below are the best creative writing programs in South Africa, evaluated based on faculty expertise, curriculum depth, practical training, research output, and graduate success. Each is accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE), ensuring quality and credibility.
1. University of Cape Town (UCT) – MA in Creative Writing
Overview: UCT’s Centre for Creative Writing offers a prestigious two-year MA program, one of the best in Africa, focusing on fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry.
Faculty: Led by acclaimed writers and scholars like Henrietta Rose-Innes and Imraan Coovadia.
Curriculum: Intensive workshops, one-on-one supervision, and a final manuscript project.
Practical Training: Opportunities to publish in literary journals and participate in UCT’s reading series.
Why It’s Top-Rated: Combines rigorous craft development with a supportive community, ideal for serious writers aiming to publish.
Entry Requirements: A bachelor’s degree with a strong writing portfolio.
2. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – MA in Creative Writing
Overview: Wits offers an intensive postgraduate program focused on cross-genre writing, including fiction, poetry, and scripts.
Faculty: Features award-winning authors and poets, fostering a vibrant workshop environment.
Curriculum: Emphasizes reading as a writer, genre experimentation, and a substantial creative project.
Practical Training: Includes writer-in-residence programs funded by the Mellon Foundation, hosting global talent.
Why It’s Top-Rated: Perfect for writers seeking a collaborative, experimental space in Johannesburg’s cultural hub.
Entry Requirements: Honours degree or equivalent, plus a portfolio.
3. Stellenbosch University – BA Honours in Creative Writing
Overview: A one-year honours program building on undergraduate studies, blending literary analysis with creative practice.
Faculty: Includes respected Afrikaans and English writers with deep industry ties.
Curriculum: Covers fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, with a focus on craft and critique.
Practical Training: Workshops and opportunities to engage with Stellenbosch’s literary festivals.
Why It’s Top-Rated: Balances theory and practice, ideal for writers refining their voice in a scenic setting.
Entry Requirements: A bachelor’s degree with a literary focus.
4. University of Pretoria (UP) – Unit for Creative Writing Programs
Overview: Offers undergraduate and postgraduate options, including a BA with Creative Writing modules and a master’s stream.
Faculty: Emerging and established writers guide students through personalized mentorship.
Curriculum: Focuses on storytelling techniques, genre diversity, and literary critique.
Practical Training: Access to UP’s literary events and publishing workshops.
Why It’s Top-Rated: A nurturing environment for writers at all levels, with flexible study paths.
Entry Requirements: Varies by program; a portfolio is key for postgraduate entry.
5. University of South Africa (UNISA) – BA in Creative Writing
Overview: A flexible, distance-learning BA program tailored for working students or those outside urban centers.
Faculty: Experienced tutors provide feedback via online platforms.
Curriculum: Covers fiction, poetry, scriptwriting, and creative nonfiction over three years.
Practical Training: Self-directed projects with optional workshops and peer reviews.
Why It’s Top-Rated: Offers accessibility and affordability without compromising quality.
Entry Requirements: National Senior Certificate (NSC) with degree endorsement and 50% in English.
6. Rhodes University – BA with Creative Writing Specialization
Overview: Known for its journalism program, Rhodes also excels in undergraduate creative writing within its English Department.
Faculty: Writers with a passion for mentorship and literary exploration.
Curriculum: Integrates creative writing with literary studies, emphasizing craft and imagination.
Practical Training: Opportunities to publish in student journals and engage with Grahamstown’s literary scene.
Why It’s Top-Rated: A strong foundation for writers seeking a holistic literary education.
Entry Requirements: NSC with a Bachelor’s pass and strong English marks.
How to Choose the Right Program
Selecting the best creative writing program depends on your goals and circumstances. Consider these factors:
Level of Study: Undergraduate (e.g., UNISA, Rhodes) or postgraduate (e.g., UCT, Wits)?
Delivery Mode: On-campus (e.g., Stellenbosch) or distance learning (e.g., UNISA)?
Faculty Expertise: Look for programs with published authors and mentors.
Practical Opportunities: Prioritize workshops, publishing, and literary events.
Specialization: Want to focus on fiction, poetry, or scripts? Check curriculum details.
Career Paths and Earning Potential
A creative writing degree opens doors to diverse careers:
Author: Publish novels or poetry. Salary: Varies widely; established authors can earn R500,000+ annually.
Screenwriter: Write for TV or film. Salary: R300,000–R800,000/year.
Editor: Refine manuscripts for publishers. Salary: R250,000–R600,000/year.
Content Creator: Craft digital content. Salary: R200,000–R500,000/year.
Academic: Teach creative writing. Salary: R400,000–R900,000/year with experience.
Pairing your degree with skills in digital media or marketing can boost earning potential.
Conclusion: Unleash Your Creative Potential
South Africa’s best creative writing programs—like those at UCT, Wits, and UNISA—offer unparalleled opportunities to hone your craft and launch a literary career. With expert faculty, practical training, and vibrant literary communities, these universities cater to writers at every stage. This guide, the top online resource for 2025, equips you with everything you need to choose wisely and start writing your future.
