Writing Literary Fiction
Postgraduate
MAQ-ENGX8020 2026Course information for 2026 intake
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Enrol by
- 15 Feb 2026
- Entry requirements
- Part of a degree
- Duration
- 13 weeks
- Start dates
- 23 Feb 2026
- Price from
- $3,195
- Upfront cost
- $0
- Loan available
- FEE-HELP available
Writing Literary Fiction
About this subject
On successful completion, a student will be able to:
- Identify, analyse and apply different definitions and conventions of literary writing.
- Understand and prioritise character, style, and theme in fiction writing.
- Identify, analyse and create written works that engage with relevant social, cultural, global and ethical issues.
- Demonstrate the capacity to think creatively, critically and imaginatively to evaluate and present complex ideas, concepts, problems and processes through creative writing.
- A week-by-week guide to the topics you will explore in this subject will be provided in your study materials.
This unit demystifies the “literary” by examining the rise and development of literary fiction, noting its attributes as well as understanding what literariness is defined against. Students begin by having fun writing overwrought “purple prose” stories which they then analyse and learn to revise and edit according to a literary aesthetic. The unit also focuses on developing complex characters who drive plot, exploring significant themes and issues, and experimenting with different narrative styles.
- Portfolio of formative learning activities completed throughout the unit. (40%)
- Minor Creative Work (20%)
- Major Creative Work (40%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
This research-intensive university in north-western Sydney offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. With over 44,000 current students, Macquarie has a strong reputation for welcoming international students and embracing flexible and convenient study options, including its partnership with Open Universities Australia.
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Entry requirements
To enrol in this subject, you must be admitted into a degree.
Others
Pre-requisite Admission to MCrWrit
NCCW (2020 and onwards)
ENGL8020 Writing Literary Fiction
Additional requirements
No additional requirements
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.