MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
BA Creative Writing and Film & Theatre
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The program is designed to develop students' creative writing abilities within small-group settings, allowing for personalized feedback and collaborative learning. Students engage with a diverse array of literary, dramatic, and film texts, gaining insights into various genres and narrative forms. The course also emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to film and theatre, enabling students to understand and apply critical concepts in their creative endeavors.
Curriculum: The curriculum encompasses modules that introduce students to creative writing across multiple forms, including character creation, poetry, and narrative development. In film and theatre studies, students examine critical approaches to these mediums and have opportunities to develop practical and technical skills. The course aims to foster independent thinking through the close reading and analytical skills fundamental to English literature, film, and theatre.
Research Focus: The program encourages an independent approach to formulating problems and arguments, utilizing close reading and analytical skills. Students engage with a variety of literary, dramatic, and film texts from different periods, becoming familiar with diverse critical perspectives and analytical methods within and between the disciplines.
Industry Engagement: The University of Reading's proximity to Shinfield Studios, known for hosting productions like Netflix's 'Bridgerton' and Disney's 'Star Wars: The Acolyte,' offers students unique industry engagement opportunities. Partnerships with organizations such as Albert Education, Arri Certified Film School, FEST, Rabble Theatre, Reading Rep Theatre, Climate Change Theatre Action, and South St Theatre provide hands-on experiences, including film production bootcamps, workshops, technical training on Arri Alexa cameras, and real-life shoot simulations.
Global Perspective: In the second year, students have the opportunity to spend a semester studying abroad at partner institutions in the USA, Canada, Australia, or across Europe, enriching their global perspective and understanding of international film and writing landscapes.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
£ 25250
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 135.
- Some 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.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
Graduates of the BA Creative Writing and Film & Theatre program at the University of Reading can pursue a variety of career paths, thanks to their versatile skill set.
Screenwriting and Scriptwriting: With a strong foundation in creative writing and film studies, graduates can embark on careers in screenwriting for television, film, or digital platforms. They will have the knowledge to craft compelling narratives, develop complex characters, and structure scripts effectively. Many alumni find opportunities in both mainstream media and independent productions.
Film and Theatre Production: The program’s practical focus on film and theatre production allows graduates to pursue roles in directing, producing, or technical aspects of production, such as cinematography or sound design. With hands-on experience, they are well-prepared for jobs in the film industry, TV production, or theatre companies, working both behind and in front of the camera or stage.
Creative Writing: Many graduates pursue careers as novelists, short story writers, poets, or scriptwriters for stage plays. The creative writing component of the program provides students with the tools needed to create original works and potentially publish their writings. These graduates may also venture into freelance writing or work with literary agents and publishing houses.
Media and Journalism: With an emphasis on storytelling, graduates can enter the media and journalism industries, contributing as journalists, editors, bloggers, or content creators for television, radio, print, and online publications. They are also well-suited for roles that require critical analysis, review writing, and media commentary.
Theatre and Performance Arts: Students interested in theatre and performance arts can pursue careers in acting, directing, or stage management. The program offers opportunities to gain practical theatre experience, and graduates may go on to work with theatre companies, performing arts organizations, or even run their own independent productions.
Publishing: Graduates can enter the publishing world, working as editors, literary agents, or in content development for publishing houses. Their background in creative writing allows them to contribute to the development of books, plays, and other printed media, while their understanding of film and theatre enhances their ability to work on adaptations and related projects.
Marketing and Advertising: The storytelling skills gained through creative writing and film & theatre studies are also invaluable in the marketing and advertising sectors. Graduates can work as copywriters, brand storytellers, or content creators, helping brands craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences across various platforms.
Film Criticism and Review: Graduates may choose to become professional film critics or reviewers, writing for newspapers, magazines, websites, or television. Their deep understanding of film theory and storytelling allows them to provide insightful critiques and reviews for a range of audiences.
Event Management and Festival Organization: Graduates interested in event management can work in organizing film festivals, theatre events, or literary festivals. Their expertise in both creative fields and organizational skills can help them create memorable experiences for audiences while working with production teams, sponsors, and artists.
Education and Teaching: The BA Creative Writing and Film & Theatre program offers a strong foundation for those who wish to teach. Graduates may pursue postgraduate studies and eventually become educators, teaching creative writing, film studies, theatre arts, or media studies at various educational levels, from schools to universities.
Freelance and Entrepreneurship: Some graduates may choose to become freelancers or start their own businesses. They may write for film, TV, or theatre, offer consulting services for creative projects, or even launch their own production companies, publishing ventures, or creative agencies.
