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Mature student

Hi, i'm thinking of applying for a University to do Creative Writing and a list of a few in mind, is my age a problem? i'll be 46 in January.

Reply 1

TheUniofLawStaff

Official Rep

Original post

by JonnyB86

Hi, i'm thinking of applying for a University to do Creative Writing and a list of a few in mind, is my age a problem? i'll be 46 in January.

Hi @JonnyB86

Age is absolutely not a barrier to applying for university. Many universities welcome mature students and value the diverse perspectives and experiences they bring to the classroom. In fact, creative writing programs often benefit from students with rich life experiences.

It might be worth checking out the unibuddy pages of the universities you're interested in to see if you can talk to a mature student about their experience so far.

I hope that helps,
Mandi - The Uni of Law

Reply 2

University of Salford Student Rep

Official Rep

Original post

by JonnyB86

Hi, i'm thinking of applying for a University to do Creative Writing and a list of a few in mind, is my age a problem? i'll be 46 in January.

Hi there,

We have a number of courses related to Creative Writing if you would like to check them out:

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BA Creative Writing (Multidiscipline)

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BA English Multidiscipline (allows you to craft your own route and choose your own two subjects to combine out of English Language, English Literature, Creative Writing, and Drama)

•

MA Creative Writing: Innovation and Experiment - I wasn't sure if you were looking for undergraduate or postgraduate, so have included this too!

I am a mature student myself studying at the University of Salford and have found it to be a wonderful experience. We are a very diverse university with people from all variety of backgrounds and I have personally always felt very welcomed, included and accepted whilst I've been studying here - I'd never leave if I didn't have to if I'm honest! I've found there is quite a fair few mature students also studying here too and have never felt out of place. We also have a mature students society too which I have been part of (although I have much less time to be involved with it this year) and had a lovely experience meeting lots of other people who don't quite have the 'typical' student lifestyle like myself, but who still want to meet others and get involved when they can 😊 I've honestly felt so much support since studying here and believe it to be one of the best choices I ever made.

I'd personally recommend coming to visit at an open day and see how you feel being on campus. I've looked at a lot of other universities in my time and Salford was the one that finally suited me - but, we are all different and it's definitely worth physically going to test out the feel on campus to see if it suits you!

The next one is the 13th December for undergraduate courses so might be a bit too short notice, I believe the next one after that will be around June ish time (although don't quote me! Keep an eye out on the webpage). For postgraduate courses the next one is 25th February.

•

If you can't make them, you could always register for a bespoke Campus Tour where a student ambassador will show you around the campus and discuss the services/facilities we have to offer.

Whilst I've had a fab experience here at UoS, I can reassure you that wherever you choose to go I am sure you will be welcomed into the university experience without judgement - and it is certainly not a problem. We are all different with our own unique journeys and there is no right or wrong version of who a student should be. Many people decide to change disciplines and pursue a new career too so there's lots of reasons why you may be a bit older as a student. I personally had a few things occur in my younger years which meant university was only really right for me at this point, and that's okay! I've met lots of other mature students along the way who all have interesting stories to tell too 😄

If age is the only thing holding you back then I can enthusiastically say go for it!

All the best,

Becky
University of Salford Student Rep

Reply 3

LJMUStudentReps

Official Rep

Original post

by JonnyB86

Hi, i'm thinking of applying for a University to do Creative Writing and a list of a few in mind, is my age a problem? i'll be 46 in January.

Hi,

University is a diverse environment, where age is never a barrier. Mature students are very welcome, and many people start or return to degrees later in life. Your life experience can actually be a huge advantage in Creative Writing, giving your work depth, perspective, and a unique voice. I’d definitely say go for it if that’s the only thing holding you back.

At LJMU, we offer a BA (Hons) in Creative Writing within a supportive and inspiring environment. You’ll have the chance to work with published authors, take part in literary events, readings, screenings, and open mic nights, and join a vibrant writing community. The course covers prose, creative non-fiction, scriptwriting, and poetry, with opportunities to specialise in areas that challenge you most. The acclaimed Writer at Work module gives you real-world experience, such as organising literary events, pitching to agents, or planning a film project.

The teaching team are all published authors, and you’ll hear from prestigious visiting writers during Professional Practice Weeks. You’ll also have access to excellent facilities, including lecture theatres, TV and radio studios, editing suites, and the Mount Pleasant Campus Library, open 24/7.

For more information about the course, you can visit our website https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/courses/undergraduates/2026/32840-creative-writing-ba-hons

Wishing you all the best,

Tayba
Student Rep