Study individual Masters-level modules at your own pace, with the option to build towards a full MA over time.
Design your own professional development journey, one module at a time.
This flexible Masters-level framework allows you to select from over 30 creative modules spanning writing, journalism, film, media, design and more. Whether you want to sharpen a specific skill, explore a new creative discipline, or stay current in a fast-moving industry, you can build a learning experience that aligns directly with your professional goals.
You'll work on practical, industry-relevant projects and creative outputs, gaining hands-on experience you can apply in your career. Each module is equivalent to around 200 hours of learning and is designed to deliver focused, high-impact upskilling.
You don’t need to commit to a full Masters. You can:
- Study one module at a time
- Choose topics that match your current priorities
- Progress at a pace that suits your work and life commitments
Over time, if you wish, you can build these modules into a full MA qualification, or leave at any point with a certificate of credit for the modules you've taken. You can even exit with a PgCertificate (for 60 credits), or a PgDiploma (for 120 credits).
What will I learn?
The modules available to study will change each Trimester. The current list is available on the MA Creative Studies course page but for a flavour of what has been offered in a typical trimester:
Trimester 2 (January - April 2027)
Art, Design & Photography
Media & Humanities
Screen & Performance
Who will teach me?
You'll be taught by a team of experienced academics and industry professionals from across the School of Arts & Creative Industries.
Teaching is grounded in real-world practice, combining academic insight with current industry expertise. You'll benefit from tutors who are active practitioners in areas such as writing, media production, design and film, ensuring your learning stays relevant, applied and professionally focused.
Entry criteria
This CPD route sits within a part-time MA framework, so standard postgraduate entry requirements apply.
If English is not your first language, you'll also need to meet the University's English language requirements.
Some modules may require a portfolio or a sample of your work. Once we've reviewed your application and discussed the modules you are interested in taking, we will be in touch with you if a portfolio or sample of work is required.
Course dates and duration
This is a flexible, part-time CPD route designed to fit around your schedule.
Modules run across three trimesters:
- September-December (Trimester 1)
- January-May (Trimester 2)
- June-August (Trimester 3)
You can:
- Take one module at a time
- Study intermittently or continuously
- Build credits over multiple years
Delivery mode
Delivery varies by module:
- Most modules are delivered on campus at our Merchiston Campus in Edinburgh
- Selected modules are available online
You'll have access to industry-standard facilities including studios, design labs and specialist learning spaces, depending on your chosen modules.
Cost
One of the key benefits of this CPD approach is financial flexibility.
- You pay per module, rather than committing to a full MA upfront
- Each module typically carries 20 academic credits
- What you pay each Trimester will vary depending on how many modules you take
For an indicative guide, the fee for 20-credits is £1,220 for UK students in 2026/27.
This means you can spread the cost of your professional development over time, investing only in the modules you need, when you need them.
Additional information
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is practical, flexible and tailored to each module.
Rather than traditional exams, you'll typically be assessed through:
- Creative projects and portfolios
- Professional outputs (like scripts, articles, designs)
- Reflective writing on your practice
- Occasionally, collaborative or group work
This ensures your assessments directly support your professional development and produce work you can use beyond the course.
What do I get on completion of the module?
Each successfully completed module provides:
- A Certificate of Completion
- 20 academic credits at Masters level
These credits can either stand alone as evidence of CPD or be accumulated over time towards a Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits), Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) or a full MA (180 credits total).
There is no obligation to complete the full degree. You can take just one module, or keep building credits as your career evolves.
How to book
To enrol on a module, you'll need to apply for the part-time MA Creative Studies degree via the standard application process.
As part of your application process, you should include which modules you would like to take first in your personal statement. The Programme Leader will contact you to discuss any additional details (eg portfolio or sample of work) if needed.
Once your application is accepted, you can:
- Select individual modules aligned to your professional goals
- Study on a module-by-module basis
- Exit at any point, or continue accumulating credits toward a full Masters
Enquiries
If you have questions about this course or how to apply, email Marketing@napier.ac.uk.