Course summary
For any writer inspired by the natural world, other cultures and the power of place.
- A world-leading course in two powerful genres dealing with today’s greatest challenges.
- Offers you the skills and experiences to become a published writer of books, articles and online.
- Taught remotely and part-time over two years, to fit around your lifestyle.
Modules
Writing in the Field (30 credits) A broad introduction to the skills and techniques required to write from personal experience, whether about people, landscapes, the natural world, or a combination of all three. By using fieldcraft techniques, based on looking, listening, feeling and thinking, we explore ways of writing about the world around us. Context, History and Genres in Creative Non-Fiction (30 credits) An overview of the way the various genres of creative non-fiction writing (for example, Travel Writing, the New Nature Writing, plus other relevant genres such as Popular Science and Environmental Writing) have developed over time, from the past to the present, and how this both reflects and shapes social, cultural, historical and environmental issues in Britain and around the world. Advanced Travel and Nature Writing (30 credits) Continuing from what we covered in Writing in the Field, you’ll develop new ways of writing about the world, pushing the boundaries of your writing style and content in order to learn what works best for you as a writer. Professional Skills in Travel and Nature Writing (30 credits) Featuring advice from senior practitioners, editors and publishers, this is a practical guide to getting your work published across a range of different media and outlets, including newspapers, magazines, websites, blogs, books and on TV and radio. You’ll also learn to plan a trip requiring commissions, and do a pitch and interview of an idea for publication. A Portfolio of Travel and Nature Writing (60 credits) A 20,000 word portfolio of your best work, in a range of styles and formats, together with a reflective diary on your progress through the year.
Assessment method
You’ll be assessed through a combination of formative and summative assessments. This will include creative writing pieces, critical and analytical essays, presentations and a broad portfolio of your writing.
Entry requirements
We’re looking for individuals with: - A real passion for either the natural world and/or places and people - A love of travel and/or nature writing - Above all, an urge to write and be published. Ideally you should have a first degree (for example, BA/BSc), but this is not compulsory, depending on your other experience. Interviews are held online through the year, on a first-come-first served basis. Please submit two to four pieces of your writing before the interview, ideally showing an ability to write non-fiction narrative or feature journalism.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
England | £4528 | Year 1 |
Northern Ireland | £4528 | Year 1 |
Scotland | £4528 | Year 1 |
Wales | £4528 | Year 1 |
Channel Islands | £4528 | Year 1 |
Republic of Ireland | £4528 | Year 1 |
EU | £8823 | Year 1 |
International | £8823 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Provider information
Bath Spa University
Newton Park
Newton St Loe
Bath
BA2 9BN