BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing program at Leeds Trinity University provides a comprehensive and dynamic exploration of English language and literature alongside the development of practical creative writing skills across various genres. This three-year full-time program offers a thorough understanding of literary history, theory, and criticism, combined with intensive workshops and guidance in fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and playwriting. The curriculum strategically blends rigorous academic study with hands-on creative practice, ensuring graduates develop strong analytical, interpretive, and communication skills, alongside a confident and versatile creative voice. The program encourages experimentation, critical reflection on creative work, and a deep appreciation for the power and artistry of language.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing program is carefully structured to provide a strong foundation in literary studies and creative writing techniques while progressively fostering individual creative expression and critical understanding. The initial years typically cover core areas of English literature across different historical periods and genres, alongside introductory creative writing workshops focusing on narrative, character, and voice. Students also develop essential skills in literary analysis, research, and critical thinking. As students advance, the curriculum delves into more specialized areas of literary study and offers focused creative writing workshops in specific genres such as fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and playwriting. Students have opportunities to explore contemporary literature, literary theory, and to develop their own creative projects with individual feedback and guidance. The final year culminates in a substantial creative writing portfolio and a critical dissertation, showcasing their creative and analytical achievements.

Research Focus: The BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing program at Leeds Trinity University encourages students to engage with research both in their critical study of literature and in informing their own creative practice. While the creative writing component is primarily practice-based, students are encouraged to research literary traditions, contemporary writing, and the publishing industry. In their study of English literature, students develop strong research skills, learning to analyze scholarly sources, interpret literary texts within their historical and cultural contexts, and formulate their own critical arguments. Faculty members are often engaged in research across various fields of English literature and creative writing, bringing their expertise into the classroom and supervising student research projects. The program aims to cultivate graduates who are not only skilled writers but also informed and critical readers and thinkers.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement within the BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing program at Leeds Trinity University focuses on connecting students with the professional worlds of writing, publishing, and related creative industries. The program often includes guest lectures from published authors, editors, agents, and professionals working in areas such as marketing, journalism, and arts administration. Students may have opportunities to participate in writing competitions, literary events, and workshops led by industry professionals. The university's dedicated Careers and Placements team supports students in exploring internships and work experience opportunities in publishing houses, literary agencies, arts organizations, and media companies, helping them to gain valuable insights into the practical aspects of building a career with their writing and analytical skills.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing program at Leeds Trinity University incorporates a global perspective by exploring literature from diverse cultural backgrounds and examining the global reach of the English language. The curriculum may include postcolonial literature, world literature in translation, and the study of how language and narrative function in different cultural contexts. Students are encouraged to consider the global publishing industry and the diverse audiences for creative writing. The diverse student body at Leeds Trinity contributes to a rich intercultural learning environment, fostering an appreciation for different literary traditions and storytelling practices from around the world. The program aims to cultivate graduates who are culturally aware, articulate communicators, and equipped to engage with a globalized literary landscape.