MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
MA Creative Writing
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The University of Reading, located in the United Kingdom, is renowned for its diverse academic offerings and research excellence. Established in 1892, it has developed a strong reputation for fostering innovative thinking, intellectual development, and research-driven learning. The MA in Creative Writing at the University of Reading is one of its prestigious postgraduate programs. This program is designed for individuals looking to pursue a career in writing, offering an in-depth understanding of the craft and industry of creative writing. The program emphasizes critical thinking, practical writing skills, and the development of a unique voice, preparing students for success in the literary world.
Curriculum: The MA Creative Writing program at the University of Reading is structured to help students refine their creative and technical writing abilities. It offers a blend of workshops, lectures, and seminars, focusing on various aspects of creative writing, including poetry, fiction, and narrative non-fiction. Students are encouraged to experiment with different genres while receiving guidance from experienced writers and academics. The curriculum also includes the study of literary theory and writing techniques to foster a deeper understanding of the craft. The program allows flexibility, enabling students to tailor their studies to suit their personal writing interests and career goals.
Research Focus: The University of Reading has a strong emphasis on research, particularly in areas related to creative writing and literature. As part of the MA Creative Writing program, students are encouraged to engage in research activities that support their writing projects. The university offers a vibrant research environment, with faculty members actively engaged in their own research in creative writing, literary studies, and related fields. The university’s research centers, such as the International Centre for the Study of Creative Writing, provide students with access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities to collaborate with experts in the field. This research-focused approach enriches students' academic experiences and enhances the quality of their work.
Industry Engagement: The University of Reading’s MA Creative Writing program offers significant opportunities for industry engagement, connecting students with established professionals in the writing and publishing industries. The university has strong ties with literary agents, publishers, and professional writers, providing students with networking opportunities and the possibility of internships or placements. Guest lectures, workshops, and masterclasses led by industry experts form a crucial part of the curriculum, giving students real-world insights into the writing industry. These interactions help students navigate the practical aspects of writing, from getting published to building a sustainable writing career.
Global Perspective: With an international student body and a global outlook, the University of Reading offers a unique perspective on creative writing. Students come from diverse cultural backgrounds, enriching the learning environment with varied viewpoints and experiences. The program's global perspective is reinforced by the university's strong academic partnerships and opportunities for international collaboration. Students are encouraged to explore global literary traditions and contemporary writing trends, allowing them to incorporate a wide range of influences into their work. The diverse environment fosters cross-cultural understanding and broadens the scope of students' creative projects.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25850
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Commonwealth Scholarships: Available for students from Commonwealth nations pursuing a master's or PhD. Covers tuition fees, airfare, and a monthly stipend.
Great Scholarships: A collaboration between the British Council and UK universities. Provides funding of up to £10,000 for postgraduate students from selected countries.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
Alumni Discount for Postgraduate Students: If you are a University of Reading graduate, you may be eligible for a tuition fee discount for further studies.
The MA Creative Writing program at the University of Reading is designed not only to foster creative talent but also to prepare students for a variety of career paths in the writing and publishing industries. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue diverse career opportunities.
Published Author: Many graduates of the MA Creative Writing program go on to become published authors, creating novels, short stories, poetry, and non-fiction works. The program provides students with the tools to refine their craft and develop a unique voice, preparing them for success in the competitive literary world.
Editor/Publisher: Students of the MA Creative Writing program often transition into careers in editing and publishing. With a solid foundation in writing and literary analysis, graduates are well-suited to roles such as manuscript editor, book editor, or publisher. The university’s strong industry ties enable students to connect with professionals in the publishing world, giving them a head start in these fields.
Freelance Writer/Content Creator: The flexible nature of the program allows graduates to pursue freelance writing or content creation. Graduates can write for magazines, websites, advertising agencies, or other organizations that require creative content. The ability to write across multiple genres equips them to handle a wide range of writing tasks.
Scriptwriting and Screenwriting: The skills gained in the Creative Writing program can be applied to scriptwriting and screenwriting. Graduates may write for television, film, theater, or online media. The program's emphasis on narrative construction, dialogue, and storytelling provides a solid foundation for entering the entertainment industry.
Academic and Teaching Roles: For those interested in teaching, the MA Creative Writing program can be a stepping stone to a career in academia. Graduates may go on to pursue further postgraduate studies (such as a PhD in Creative Writing or English Literature) and teach at university or school levels. Teaching writing skills and literary analysis to others can be a fulfilling career option.
Copywriting and Technical Writing: Graduates can also pursue careers in advertising, marketing, or technical writing. Many companies require skilled writers to create marketing materials, advertising copy, and user manuals. The creative writing program equips students with the ability to write clearly, persuasively, and imaginatively, making them suitable for a variety of writing roles.
Literary Agent: The MA Creative Writing program gives students the tools to understand the intricacies of the publishing industry, which can lead to careers as literary agents. Literary agents represent authors and work with publishers to sell their clients' manuscripts. Graduates may choose to work for established agencies or start their own literary agency.
Public Relations and Communications: The program also prepares students for careers in public relations and communications. Graduates can create press releases, manage media relations, or work in corporate communications, using their storytelling skills to craft compelling narratives for businesses and organizations.
