Falmouth University has long been recognised for its focus on creative careers, and its postgraduate course in Professional Writing stands out as a flagship offering. Recent successes of its faculty – from a Man‑Booker nomination to awards for fiction and non‑fiction – demonstrate the practical impact of learning at this institution. This article examines why the MA in Professional Writing is a compelling choice for aspiring authors and industry professionals, looks at the achievements of lecturer Wyl Menmuir, and shows how the surrounding Cornwall community fuels creative work.
Why the MA in Professional Writing is a Strong Career Investment
Graduates of the MA in Professional Writing report tangible career gains: publishing contracts, editorial placements, and media opportunities. The curriculum balances theory with hands‑on practice, so students finish the programme prepared to pitch to agencies, submit to journals, or self‑publish with a clear value proposition. The course’s industry‑led workshops, led by active writers and editors, provide immediate feedback and networking moments that would otherwise be hard to find for independent writers.
Course Highlights
- Peer‑reviewed sessions that model the editorial process.
- One‑to‑one mentoring with professionals who publish in both mainstream and niche markets.
- Access to Falmouth’s state‑of‑the‑art facilities, including a dedicated writers’ room named after Virginia Woolf.
- Opportunities to write for the university’s in‑house magazine and local media partners.
These features give students a portfolio of practice pieces ready for submission, a key advantage when approaching publishers or digital platforms.
Wyl Menmuir – A Case Study of Success
Lecturer Wyl Menmuir brings a record of first‑class achievements: a Man‑Booker nomination, an award‑winning novel, and several short‑story credentials, including recent inclusion in Salt Publishing’s Best British Short Stories 2025. His writing reflects the influence of Cornwall’s landscape; one of his stories, The Incidents, is set in the “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” around Fowey and references Daphne du Maurier, blending local history with literary homage.
Recent Awards and Publications
Menmuir’s latest novel, The Heart of the Woods, received the Award for Excellence from the Outdoor Writers and Photographers Guild, underscoring the cultural resonance of his work. In addition, his forthcoming title, The Spirit of Stone, explores the relationship between people and geological features and is expected to launch in June 2026.
Each publication is accompanied by a rigorous research process: Menmuir spends months speaking to local historians, environmentalists and rock enthusiasts, creating authenticity that readers and critics alike praise. This method demonstrates the value of fieldwork and immersion that the MA programme encourages.
How the Falmouth Environment Fuels Creative Writing
Beyond the curriculum, Cornwall’s dramatic coastline, historic villages, and a vibrant arts community provide endless inspiration. Students and staff regularly collaborate on multimedia projects, community readings, and cross‑disciplinary workshops, allowing writers to test ideas in front of real audiences. The university’s library hosts a dedicated collection of local folklore and environmental studies, which supports research for fiction writers seeking credible terrain.
Community Resources and Networking
Falmouth’s Writers’ Room serves as a quiet, collaborative space where authors can discuss plots, share editing tips or simply observe others in the creative process. The university frequently hosts author talks, publishing panels and regional literary festivals, which create opportunities for students to connect with agents, editors and contemporaries.
These interactions make it easier for students to learn industry expectations, gain mentorship and secure publishing deals. In fact, many alumni of the programme credit the university’s robust professional network for their first contracts.
Building a Resilient Writing Portfolio
One of the key messages from the MA is to treat your writing output as a living portfolio. Students are encouraged to:
- Publish short pieces in local and national outlets.
- Submit to literary anthologies and competitions.
- Maintain a polished personal website and social media presence.
- Keep an archive of drafts to analyze personal growth.
This systematic approach means you always have ready material for agent queries, book proposals or freelance gigs. The university’s professional development workshops cover query letter structure, self‑editing techniques, and marketing strategies.
Research Opportunities for Aspiring Authors
Beyond creative writing, Falmouth offers a range of research support services. Students can access the university’s library database, gain assistance with research design or collaborate with doctoral candidates on interdisciplinary projects that combine literature with environmental science or digital media.
In his recent work on the “Spirit of Stone,” Menmuir has utilized such collaborations to integrate geological data into narrative structure, a method that students are invited to experiment with during their studies.
How to Apply and Get Started
Applicants to the MA in Professional Writing should prepare:
- Three polished literary samples (fiction, non‑fiction or poetry).
- A statement of purpose outlining your career goals.
- A recent academic transcript or portfolio.
The application deadline for the 2026 intake is 30 June, so it’s wise to compose drafts now and seek feedback from mentors. The university’s admissions team is available for queries throughout the application period.
Take the Next Step in Your Writing Career
Whether you aim to publish a novel, land a freelance contract or develop a digital content strategy, the MA in Professional Writing at Falmouth University offers the tools, community and industry links to help you succeed.
Ready to move forward? Submit your application today and begin your journey with a program that blends rigorous training with a vibrant creative ecosystem.
Want to explore specific modules or speak with a course advisor? Schedule a free consultation to learn how the curriculum aligns with your goals.
Have questions about living in Cornwall or the support services on campus? Contact the admissions office for detailed information.
We encourage you to share your experience or ask further questions in the comments below. Connect with fellow writers and stay up to date with the latest news on Falmouth’s professional writing community.
For more insights into creative writing pathways, explore our news section or read related features on success stories from alumni.
