Literature, creative writing and film studies
Develop your own creativity and examine that of others
Join us for a short course – in Oxford or online
Start (or finish) your own novel, poem or play; produce critical analyses of classic and contemporary literature; or explore the cinematic works of a country, genre or director.
- View all short courses in literature, creative writing and film
- Ways to study: how our short courses work
Gain credit from short courses
Many of our short courses, including weekly learning programmes (both in Oxford and online) and some summer schools, can be studied for credit, which means they can count towards a recognised qualification such as our Undergraduate Certificate of Higher Education.
Part-time Oxford University qualifications
From undergraduate level study to advanced graduate courses.
- Undergraduate Certificate of Higher Education (gain credit from short courses)
- Foundation Certificate in English Literature (choose from two study options including one mostly online)
- Undergraduate Diploma in Creative Writing (choose from two study options including one mostly online)
- MSt in Creative Writing (formed of short residencies and a research placement)
- MSt in Literature and Arts (formed of online modules and short residencies)
- DPhil in Literature and Arts
Upcoming courses
Online - live • Short courses • Hybrid - in person or online
Magical realism is a key term for thinking about the blending of magical and realist perspectives, especially in postcolonial and world literature and art. Join us, in Oxford or online, as we reflect on the continuing relevance of magical realism today.
- Sat 10 Jun 2023
- 9:45am – 5:00pm
Online - flexible • Short courses
Many readers enjoy Austen's novels, but what makes them so special and enduring?
- Wed 14 Jun 2023 – 25 Aug 2023
Online - flexible • Short courses
Although literary theory might sometimes seem intimidating, it can be very accessible and exciting. This course aims to demystify literary theory, showing how it illuminates literary texts and enriches our understanding and enjoyment of literature.
- Wed 14 Jun 2023 – 25 Aug 2023
Online - flexible • Short courses
How did three sisters living apparently secluded, eventless lives write such original, passionate and dramatic literature?
- Mon 19 Jun 2023 – 01 Sep 2023
Summer schools • Short courses
Develop your creative writing skills in this three-week residential summer school at Exeter College, Oxford. For aspiring and experienced writers.
- Sun 23 Jul 2023 – 12 Aug 2023
Part-time qualifications
Part-time undergrduate awards and graduate degrees.
Undergraduate Certificate of Higher Education
A flexible, part-time route to an Oxford University qualification. Gain credit from flexible short online courses, weekly classes, and the Oxford University Summer School for Adults. Explore a wide range of subjects in this multidisciplinary programme.Foundation Certificate in English Literature
A two-year part-time course, equivalent to the first year of a full-time undergraduate English degree. Two study options are available, including a mostly online option.Undergraduate Diploma in Creative Writing
For aspiring writers, the Diploma offers involvement in a wide range of literary projects over two years of focused part-time study. Two study options are available including an online option with a summer school in Oxford.MSt in Creative Writing
A two-year, part-time master's offering a unique combination of high contact hours, genre specialization, and critical and creative breadth.MSt in Literature and Arts (MLA)
An interdisciplinary programme which encompasses literature, history, art, architectural history, political thought and the history of ideas. Designed around 3 sequential periods of British history, from Early Modern to the early 20th century.