American Literature with Creative Writing

Explore the rich traditions and innovative contemporary voices of American Literature through this engaging degree programme at the University of East Anglia. This course offers students the opportunity to study a diverse range of literary works, from the pioneering voices of the 19th century to the groundbreaking writers of the modern era. You will examine classic authors such as Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson, and Mark Twain, as well as contemporary figures like Toni Morrison, Don DeLillo, and Jhumpa Lahiri, gaining a comprehensive understanding of American literary history and its cultural contexts. The programme combines close textual analysis with theoretical approaches, encouraging students to develop critical thinking and interpretative skills that are essential for careers in academia, publishing, media, and beyond.

Throughout the course, students will engage with a variety of formats including poetry, fiction, drama, and non-fiction, fostering a versatile understanding of American literary expression. The programme emphasizes the exploration of themes such as identity, race, gender, and social change, reflecting the diverse voices that have shaped America's literary landscape. Creative Writing modules are integrated into the curriculum, providing students with the opportunity to refine their own writing skills under the guidance of experienced authors and academics. This combination of literary analysis and creative practice prepares graduates to pursue careers in writing, editing, publishing, and academic research.

The university’s state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant literary community create an inspiring environment for students to develop their passion for American Literature. Regular seminars, guest lectures, and workshops facilitate direct engagement with leading writers and scholars, enriching the learning experience. The programme encourages independent research and offers opportunities for students to produce publishable work, including dissertations and creative portfolios. With a strong emphasis on global perspectives, students are encouraged to examine American literature not only within its national context but also in relation to international literary discourses and cultural exchanges. Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped with both analytical prowess and creative confidence, enabling them to contribute thoughtfully to the ongoing dialogues surrounding American cultural and literary history.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10560 Year (EEA)
• EUR 14430 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU £9,000; International £12,300

• English

Course Content

The first year is designed to give a thorough grounding in the study of American literature.

In your second and fourth years, you will have a choice of Creative Writing modules to choose from. The Creative Writing element, which makes up about a quarter of the degree, is taught in seminar workshops designed to help you improve your skills as a writer under the guidance of experienced practitioners. They increase your ability to initiate and develop new creative material through technical exercises, group discussion and the exploration of strategies for drafting and re-drafting new work. In your second year, modules cover the writing of poetry, fiction and drama, and the advanced final year module is a smaller-scale foretaste of the MA in Creative Writing.

Assessment

Key skills, issues and ideas are introduced in lectures given by all members of faculty. These are accompanied by more specialist study, undertaken in small seminar groups. You will also spend time studying and researching in the library. You will be assessed at the end of each semester on the basis of coursework, and at the end of each year by examination. In your final year, you will write a dissertation on a topic of your choice and with the advice of tutors. There is no final examination. Your final degree result is determined by the marks you receive in years two and four.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 TOEFL iBT® test : 88

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• Qualification: BA (Hons)
• A Level: AAB including B in English Literature
• International Baccalaureate: 33 points including 5 in Higher Level English Literature
• Scottish Highers: At least one Advanced Higher preferred in addition to Highers
• Scottish Advanced Highers: AAB including Grade B in English Literature
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAABB
• Access Course: Please contact the university for further information
• HND: Please contact the university for further information
• European Baccalaureate: 80%

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in Reading and Writing with no less than 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 88 overall (minimum 20 in Reading and Speaking components, 19 in Writing component and 17 in Listening components.
• PTE: 62 overall (minimum 55 in Reading and Writing components with no less than 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Students will have the opportunity to meet with an academic on a Visit Day in order to gain a deeper insight into the course(s) you have applied for.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.
Deferred Entry We also welcome applications for deferred entry, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

Students must have a grade B or above in English Literature.

Applicants will also be requested to submit a portfolio of their most recent creative writing samples. These can be in the form of scriptwriting, poetry or prose or a combination of genres. Applicants will be contacted by the Admissions Office directly if a portfolio is to be requested.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

If you have alternative qualifications that have not been mentioned above then please contact university directly for further information.

GCSE Offer

Students are required have Mathematics and English at Grade C or above at GCSE Level.

Assessment

For the majority of candidates the most important factors in assessing the application will be past and future achievement in examinations, academic interest in the subject being applied for, personal interest and extra-curricular activities and the confidential reference. We consider applicants as individuals and accept students from a very wide range of educational backgrounds and spend time considering your application in order to reach an informed decision relating to your application. Typical offers are indicated above. Please note, there may be additional subject entry requirements specific to individual degree courses.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.

The MA in American Literature with Creative Writing at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive and immersive exploration into the rich and diverse landscape of American literary history, culture, and contemporary writing practices. This program combines rigorous academic study of American literary works with opportunities to develop personal creative writing skills, fostering a deep understanding of the artistic and cultural contexts that shape American literature. Students engage with a broad range of texts, from canonical authors such as Walt Whitman, Mark Twain, and Emily Dickinson, to contemporary voices like Jhumpa Lahiri, Don DeLillo, and Colson Whitehead, analyzing themes, stylistic developments, and historical influences that define American literary tradition. Alongside critical analysis, the course encourages students to craft their own creative pieces, experimenting with poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction, supported by expert guidance and constructive feedback from experienced writers and academics. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating cultural studies, history, and media to provide a well-rounded perspective on American culture and its literary expressions. Students also have access to workshops, seminars, and guest lectures designed to enhance their writing techniques and understanding of the literary marketplace. The university's facilities include extensive library resources, literary archives, and a vibrant creative community. Graduates of the program have pursued careers in publishing, teaching, writing, editing, and further academic research. The program is suitable for students with a strong interest in American literature and a passion for creative writing, looking to deepen their knowledge and develop professional skills in a stimulating academic environment.