Writing modules include introductions to academic writing and creative writing, and involve practice in the close reading of texts, which serves as a bridge to the literary strand of the degree. Year 2 Students study core modules in language, literature and writing. These include introductions to literary critical theory, variety in English language and writing poems and short stories. In the third year, students write a long study or dissertation, in the genre of their choice, with supporting critical commentaries. Third year students choose to study two aspects of literary or linguistic theory such as Marxist theory, feminism, cultural theory etc.
Creative writing is taught in seminars and workshops.
All teaching is supported by opportunities for individual feedback and consultation with staff. Students are encouraged to participate in classes by a variety of teaching methods, including group and pair work and by the use of presentations. Whilst a career as a full-time creative writer is a difficult goal to achieve, many of our former students have worked in prestigious publications, and this course will give students vital skills and knowledge about the processes of publishing as well as improving the standard of their own writing work. Many of our graduates enter other graduate careers every year, including PR, marketing, management and other business-based jobs. All of these careers require high levels of communication skills, including writing skills, and these are skills developed by undergraduate studies in English and Creative Writing.