Course summary

Applied Writing reflects on the distinct ways in which writing and creative practice has contributed to social change and historical activism. It provides opportunities for students to direct their own writing to the crucial issues of our time from the rise of identity politics and cultural conflict, to the social care and climate crises. This practice-based programme enables you to develop and apply creative skills to important social issues taking both a local and global perspective. Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with other creatives, change-makers and influencers who want to work in the creative and digital industries. They will undertake project-based modules, which allows them to showcase their employment skills as they identify and examine issues which affect our world. These projects, allow students to cultivate a network of connections for the future whilst also developing the creative solutions required for meaningful social change. What is social change? Sociologists define social change as changes in human interactions and relationships that transform cultural and social institutions. Examples of these changes have resulted from social movements in civil rights, women’s rights, and LBGTQ+ rights. You will be able to shape your degree, and your own projects around the social issues you care about whether that be around identity, climate crisis or mental health whilst developing your own distinctive style of writing. We are interested in the issues that are important to you individually and the collective power to influence social change. This practice-based writing programme enables you to engage with your own identity, background and lived experience whilst also encountering the different voices both from your peer group and the wider community. Unlike many traditional creative writing courses this programme begins with the exploration of ‘self’. Applied Writing is an innovative degree programme which offers an ideal preparation for careers in a range of sectors from business and media to education and social activism. This degree offers cross-disciplinary training in critical thinking combined with real-world skills delivered through the creative and problem-solving approach of the humanities. It and can also provide a platform to further postgraduate study and professional training.