MA Digital Media and Creative Industries
The MA Digital Media and Creative Industries at Loughborough University aims t...
MA Creative Writing and the Writing Industries
Loughborough
INTAKE: October
Program Overview
Loughborough University’s MA Creative Writing and the Writing Industries is a dynamic and forward-thinking program designed to provide students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to succeed in the contemporary literary world. Combining rigorous creative writing training with a deep exploration of the publishing industry, this program equips students to excel in both writing and navigating the professional landscape. The course is ideal for aspiring writers who want to develop their craft and gain an in-depth understanding of how the writing industries operate, preparing them for successful careers as authors, editors, literary agents, or other key players in the literary ecosystem. Students will refine their writing skills while gaining critical insights into the business side of the writing world, including the publishing process, marketing strategies, and literary management.
Curriculum: The MA Creative Writing and the Writing Industries program at Loughborough University offers a balanced curriculum that emphasizes both the creative and professional aspects of writing. Core modules focus on the craft of creative writing in various genres, such as fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and creative non-fiction. Students also engage with modules that address the business side of writing, including publishing, literary marketing, and digital storytelling. Practical workshops and writing assignments allow students to develop their own unique voices and creative portfolios while learning how to submit and promote their work. The program also incorporates modules that explore writing for digital platforms, allowing students to adapt their creative skills for the evolving media landscape. Additionally, students work on a dissertation, which is a significant piece of original writing, offering an opportunity to develop a substantial project in their chosen genre.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MA Creative Writing and the Writing Industries program is on the intersection between creative practice and the wider literary world. Students are encouraged to pursue their own creative research, examining contemporary writing practices, narrative structures, and genre-specific techniques. The program also offers a strong focus on the writing industries, including how modern technologies and changing publishing trends impact the production, distribution, and consumption of written works. Research themes may include genre innovation, transmedia storytelling, digital publishing, and the evolution of literary forms. Faculty members are active researchers in various fields, ensuring that students benefit from expert guidance and are introduced to cutting-edge ideas and discussions in the world of creative writing and publishing.
Industry Engagement: One of the standout features of Loughborough University’s MA Creative Writing and the Writing Industries program is its strong emphasis on industry engagement. The program is closely linked to the writing and publishing sectors, offering students numerous opportunities for networking and professional development. Students are encouraged to take part in internships, work placements, and industry-related events, where they can engage with professionals in the publishing world, including authors, editors, literary agents, and publishers. The university’s established connections with publishing houses, literary festivals, and media organizations give students direct access to the heart of the writing industry. Additionally, guest speakers, workshops, and masterclasses with industry experts provide valuable insights into how the publishing world operates, and students are given the chance to collaborate on real-world publishing projects.
Global Perspective: The MA Creative Writing and the Writing Industries program offers a global perspective on the literary world, recognizing the interconnectedness of the writing industries worldwide. Students explore global trends in literary production and digital storytelling, as well as the challenges and opportunities posed by international publishing. The program examines how writing is consumed across different cultures, languages, and platforms, and how global markets impact authors and publishers. Loughborough University encourages students to think critically about the globalization of literature and how writers can engage with and contribute to international literary communities. With a focus on digital media, the program also addresses how global audiences interact with stories across platforms, from traditional print books to e-books and online literary magazines.
Location
Loughborough
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 24500
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 75% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 120.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Loughborough University offers a range of scholarships for international students to support their education and make studying in the UK more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, financial need, and the potential for students to contribute to the university community.
International Excellence Awards: These are merit-based scholarships offered to international students applying for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These awards typically cover part of the tuition fees and are designed to attract outstanding students from around the globe.
Global Scholarships: Loughborough offers various global scholarships based on geographical location, supporting students from specific regions or countries with reduced tuition fees.
Postgraduate Taught Scholarships: These are available for international students applying for postgraduate taught programs at Loughborough University. Scholarships typically range from £2,000 to £4,000, depending on the student’s academic qualifications and the program they are enrolled in.
Loughborough University International Research Scholarships: For international students who wish to pursue a research-based postgraduate program, Loughborough offers research scholarships that cover full tuition fees, along with an annual stipend to assist with living costs.
Loughborough University Elite Sports Scholarships: These are available for students who are competing at an elite level in their sport. The scholarship includes financial support, as well as access to the university's world-class sports facilities, coaching, and training programs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Loughborough University offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular countries. These scholarships are designed to support students who demonstrate high academic potential and a commitment to contributing to their home country upon graduation.
Loughborough University’s MA Creative Writing and the Writing Industries is designed for individuals passionate about writing and eager to understand the business side of the creative industries. This interdisciplinary program provides a comprehensive education in creative writing, publishing, and the writing industries, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to launch successful careers as writers, editors, or professionals in various roles across the literary and cultural sectors. Through a combination of practical writing experience, workshops, and industry-focused modules, graduates can explore a broad range of career options. Below are some career paths that MA Creative Writing and the Writing Industries graduates can pursue.
Author/Novelist: A natural career path for many graduates of the MA Creative Writing and the Writing Industries program is becoming a published author or novelist. Graduates develop their writing skills in a range of genres, including fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and screenwriting. As authors, they can write and publish their own works, whether in traditional print or digital formats. Whether aiming for a traditional publishing contract or self-publishing, the program equips graduates with the skills to craft compelling narratives and navigate the often complex world of publishing.
Editor: Graduates can pursue a career as an editor in the publishing industry, working with authors, agents, or publishing houses to refine manuscripts before publication. As an editor, individuals ensure that the written content is clear, well-structured, and free of errors. Editors are essential in shaping books, articles, and other written works. There are several types of editorial roles available, including acquisitions editor, copy editor, developmental editor, and proofreader. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue these roles, given their deep understanding of writing mechanics and the publishing industry.
Literary Agent: Another career path for graduates is becoming a literary agent. Literary agents play a pivotal role in helping authors find publishers for their work. They are responsible for negotiating contracts, managing authors’ careers, and providing guidance on manuscript submissions and revisions. An understanding of the writing and publishing industries, combined with strong communication and negotiation skills, makes graduates of this program well-suited for the role of a literary agent. This career also involves networking and fostering relationships between authors and publishers, ensuring that authors' voices reach the right audiences.
Publisher/Publishing Professional: Graduates can work in publishing either as part of a publishing house or in a freelance capacity. Publishing professionals are involved in overseeing the production, distribution, and marketing of books, magazines, and other publications. As publisher assistants, marketing specialists, or publicity coordinators, they work behind the scenes to bring written works to market. Graduates can focus on digital publishing, print publishing, or academic publishing, depending on their interests and skillsets.
Content Writer/Copywriter: Content writing or copywriting is another career option for graduates. Many companies, media outlets, and online platforms require skilled writers to create content for websites, blogs, advertisements, or social media channels. Graduates can become copywriters, creating engaging and persuasive content that promotes products, services, or ideas. Content writers may specialize in specific areas such as SEO, blog writing, or technical writing, creating compelling content that resonates with audiences and boosts online visibility.
Creative Writing Teacher/Instructor: Graduates with a passion for education may consider becoming creative writing teachers or instructors at secondary schools, colleges, or universities. They can also teach adult education classes or run their own creative writing workshops. This career allows graduates to share their love for writing while nurturing the next generation of writers. Instructors may teach writing techniques, storytelling skills, and creative expression, helping students develop their voices as writers. Alternatively, graduates may work in community outreach programs, using writing as a tool for empowerment and self-expression.
Literary Critic/Journalist: A literary critic or journalist writes reviews, essays, and commentary on literature, culture, and the arts. They often work for literary magazines, newspapers, or online platforms, analyzing and critiquing newly released books, plays, films, or other creative works. Graduates can write regular columns, contribute to industry publications, or offer critiques of contemporary writing trends. With their deep understanding of creative writing and literary analysis, graduates can bring thoughtful commentary to the public on a variety of literary and cultural topics.
Screenwriter/Scriptwriter: Graduates interested in visual storytelling can pursue careers as screenwriters or scriptwriters. This role involves writing scripts for television, film, or digital media, including video games and online series. Screenwriters craft compelling stories and dialogues for the screen, often adapting books or original concepts into scripts for production. Graduates of the program with a background in storytelling and creative writing are well-equipped to write for various forms of media, including mainstream entertainment and independent productions.
Digital Content Manager: As more content moves online, there is a growing demand for digital content managers. Graduates can pursue roles where they plan and manage digital content strategies for websites, blogs, social media, or other online platforms. They may also be involved in managing editorial calendars, curating content, and monitoring online engagement. The rise of digital media and social platforms has created new opportunities for writers to work in content management, using their creativity and communication skills to enhance the online presence of companies or projects.
Public Relations (PR) Professional: Graduates can work in public relations (PR), creating media releases, writing speeches, and developing strategic communication campaigns for clients in the literary or cultural sectors. As a PR professional, they would engage with media outlets, authors, publishing houses, or cultural institutions to promote their work and enhance public perception. Their expertise in writing and understanding of the writing industries positions them to help clients build brand visibility, foster relationships with the media, and manage public image.
Arts and Cultural Manager: Graduates with an interest in the arts can pursue a career as an arts manager or cultural coordinator. In this role, they oversee the planning and execution of cultural events, literary festivals, book launches, or creative writing workshops. They may work in collaboration with writers, publishers, galleries, or performance spaces to promote the arts and literary culture. The growing importance of the creative industries has created numerous opportunities for graduates to work in cultural organizations, non-profits, and government-sponsored programs.
Social Media Manager for Writers: Social media has become a vital tool for authors and literary professionals to engage with their audience. Graduates can work as social media managers, helping authors, publishing companies, or literary organizations build and manage their online presence. They create content, manage social media campaigns, and interact with followers on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook. Their goal is to increase engagement, promote new books, and build an online community for writers and readers.
