COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA Creative Writing degree offers a dynamic, practice-based exploration of writing, literature, and publishing across three years. In the first year, students are introduced to core concepts of creative writing, English literature, and publishing, laying the foundation for their development as writers. Modules challenge conventional approaches with topics like Exploding the Canon and Breaking the Rules, encouraging students to experiment with form and content. Students explore storytelling, genre, authorship, and revolutionary ideas in literature through lectures, workshops, and tutorials. Practical skills are also developed through modules such as Publishing Studio and Publishing Cultures, where students engage with book design, zines, and digital media. In the second year, students refine their voice and begin shaping a professional identity as writers. Core modules focus on project planning, pitching, and collaborative work, while optional modules allow students to specialise in areas like screenwriting, poetry, creative non-fiction, writing for games, satire, and writing for radio or theatre. These options provide a platform to explore diverse creative forms and professional pathways. In the final year, students focus on a dissertation and portfolio project, developing a sustained and original body of work under the close supervision of a tutor. This stage deepens critical and creative practice, while modules like Post-Digital Content and Experiment and Adaptation prepare students to operate in the evolving literary and media landscape. Students gain real-world experience through live briefs and digital projects, building confidence and competence in their chosen specialisms. Optional final-year modules include Crime and Dark Fiction, Children and Young Adult, Innovations, and Beyond Humans, allowing further tailoring of individual interests. Across all years, the course blends creativity with critical engagement and professional development, equipping students for careers in writing, publishing, media, or further academic study.