Course summary

Our BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing degree course will support you in developing a rigorous and creative writing practice, while also honing your critical and analytical abilities. You will develop your writing, close-reading and research skills, and learn to craft different kinds of original writing – from critical argument to fiction. In the School of English, you will be taught by respected academics and practitioners offering a diverse range of modules. You will study literature from various major periods, movements and genres. You will also have the opportunity to produce audio drama, screenplay, short stories and poetry. Your degree will allow you to tailor your studies to your individual interests and career aspirations with both a local and global outlook. English and Creative Writing pathway To be an effective writer you need to be an effective reader. This course combines the study of literature, enabling you to think critically about the work of published authors, poets and playwrights, with the development of your own writing craft. In the early stages of your course you will have the opportunity to work creatively across a range of genres including poetry, prose fiction and drama. You will gain a thorough grounding in the craft of writing, focusing on elements such as setting, structure, dialogue, character formation and poetic form and technique. Professional Placement Year This course offers an optional professional placement year. This allows you to spend a whole year with an employer, following successful completion of your second year, and is a great way to find out more about your chosen career. Some students even return to the same employers after completing their studies.  If you choose to pursue a placement year, you will need to find a suitable placement to complement your chosen area of study. You will be able to draw on the University’s extensive network of local, regional, and national employers, and the support of our Careers teams. If you are able to secure a placement, you can request to be transferred to the placement version of the course. Please note that fees are payable during your placement year, equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee for that year. Alongside the development of your creative writing practice you will study modules in English, gaining vital skills in research, critical analysis and argument.