MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
BA English Literature with Creative Writing
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The program seamlessly integrates the study of English literature with creative writing, allowing students to explore a wide array of texts from different periods and cultures. This approach not only deepens their understanding of literary traditions but also inspires their creative endeavors. Students engage with classic and contemporary works, fostering a comprehensive appreciation of literary evolution and its impact on society.
Curriculum: The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to balance literary studies with creative writing practice. In the first year, students are introduced to major literary genres—prose, poetry, drama, and non-fiction—while developing analytical skills essential for literary critique. Subsequent years offer opportunities to specialize in areas such as medieval poetry, contemporary fiction, and various creative writing forms. This progression ensures a well-rounded educational experience that caters to individual interests and aspirations.
Research Focus: The University of Reading boasts a distinguished faculty engaged in extensive research across literary fields. Students benefit from this expertise, gaining insights into diverse literary landscapes and critical theories. The program encourages independent research projects, enabling students to investigate topics of personal interest under expert guidance, thereby enhancing their analytical and scholarly capabilities.
Industry Engagement: Recognizing the importance of practical experience, the program offers placement opportunities that allow students to apply their skills in professional settings. These placements, supported by the university's dedicated team, provide invaluable insights into potential career paths and help students build networks within the creative industries. Additionally, the university's connections with local publishers and media outlets offer platforms for students to showcase their work and gain real-world experience.
Global Perspective: The program emphasizes a global outlook by offering study abroad opportunities in the second year. Students can spend a semester at partner institutions in regions such as Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, and the USA, enriching their academic journey with diverse cultural experiences. This international exposure broadens their understanding of global literary traditions and enhances their adaptability in a multicultural world.
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 English Literature with Creative Writing program are equipped with transferable skills that make them highly employable in various industries. The ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and express creativity makes graduates valuable to employers across multiple sectors.
Creative Writing and Publishing: Graduates can pursue careers as authors, novelists, poets, or scriptwriters. With a strong background in creative writing, they can write and publish their work, whether through traditional publishing houses or self-publishing platforms. Many graduates also find employment as editors, literary agents, or in marketing and publicity roles within the publishing industry.
Journalism and Media: The program’s emphasis on writing and critical thinking allows graduates to excel in journalism and media roles. As journalists, they can write articles, conduct interviews, and produce content for newspapers, magazines, online publications, or television. Additionally, graduates with creative writing skills may work in content creation, copywriting, or as social media managers, crafting engaging material for various platforms.
Teaching and Academia: Many graduates of the BA English Literature with Creative Writing program choose to become educators. They may teach English, creative writing, or literature at primary, secondary, or post-secondary levels. Further studies, such as a Master’s or PhD, can open doors to university teaching or scholarly research in literature, creative writing, or cultural studies.
Theatre and Film Production: Graduates interested in the performing arts may pursue careers in theatre and film production. With skills in writing and understanding narrative structures, they can work as playwrights, scriptwriters, or film screenwriters. Additionally, graduates may find roles in theatre production, including directing, stage management, or producing.
Public Relations and Communications: Strong writing and communication skills are highly valued in public relations (PR) and communications. Graduates can work in PR agencies, corporate communications departments, or as media relations specialists. They may be responsible for drafting press releases, speeches, and other promotional materials to enhance a company’s public image.
Advertising and Marketing: Creative writing skills are also in demand in the advertising and marketing industries. Graduates can become copywriters, creative directors, or content strategists, crafting compelling narratives for ad campaigns, websites, and promotional content. Their ability to communicate persuasively through written words can be valuable for brands looking to connect with consumers.
Content Creation and Digital Media: With the rise of digital platforms, many graduates find success in content creation for websites, blogs, YouTube, or podcasts. Graduates with a flair for writing and storytelling can build their own digital presence or work as content creators for established brands, helping to engage online audiences.
Event Management and Festival Organization: The program also provides valuable skills for those interested in event management or organizing literary festivals. Graduates may find work with organizations that host book festivals, writing workshops, or theatrical performances. They can work in roles that involve event planning, marketing, and logistics, helping to organize events that bring together writers, performers, and audiences.
Freelance Writing and Consulting: Many graduates choose to work as freelancers, writing articles, books, scripts, or content for various clients. Freelance writing offers flexibility and the opportunity to work on a variety of projects. Graduates may also offer consulting services to writers, editors, or publishers, leveraging their expertise in literature and creative writing.
Social and Community Arts: Graduates can also work in social enterprises or community-focused arts organizations. These roles might involve working in schools, libraries, or community centers, delivering creative writing workshops, storytelling sessions, or theatre productions. They may also engage in therapeutic writing or drama projects to help people express themselves or address social issues.
Digital Publishing and Self-Publishing: With the growth of eBooks and online publishing, many graduates venture into the world of self-publishing or digital publishing. They may write and publish their own novels, short stories, or poetry collections online, or assist other writers through digital marketing, editing, and publishing services.
Corporate Writing and Technical Writing: For graduates with a talent for writing in a more structured or technical format, there are opportunities in corporate writing, such as creating user manuals, business reports, grant proposals, and training materials. Their ability to write clearly and concisely is valuable in these roles.
