English with Creative Writing

The English with Creative Writing degree at the University of Birmingham offers students a unique opportunity to explore the rich and diverse landscape of English literature alongside the art of creative writing. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to develop a deep understanding of literary texts and enhance students' own writing skills, fostering both critical analysis and creative expression. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of literary genres, periods, and authors, from classic English authors to contemporary voices, gaining valuable insights into the cultural and historical contexts that shape literature. Complementing this, the creative writing component encourages students to experiment with poetry, fiction, and other genres, helping them discover their distinctive voice and style. The programme emphasises practical writing experience, guided by experienced writers and academics, preparing students for careers in publishing, journalism, teaching, and beyond. Additionally, the curriculum encourages engagement with literary communities and publishing opportunities, offering workshops, seminars, and opportunities for publication. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated writing spaces and access to extensive literary resources. The course is designed to be flexible to accommodate diverse interests and career aspirations, with opportunities for study abroad and internships. Graduates of the English with Creative Writing programme at Birmingham leave equipped with strong analytical skills, creative talents, and professional experience, enabling them to excel in a variety of careers related to literature, education, media, and the arts. The programme is ideal for students passionate about literature and writing, seeking a comprehensive and inspiring university experience in a vibrant academic environment.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

First year

At the beginning of your programme you take an introductory module in Creative Writing, which will offer you an advanced introduction to the full range of the field. You also take an introductory module in English Literature, Literature Foundation, in which you begin to explore many of the critical tools with which you will work through the programme. Landmarks in European Literature or an introductory module in English Language are also offered, together with a module from another discipline.

Second year

In this year you will have the opportunity to choose between modules that specialise either on Poetry and Prose Writing or Drama and Media Writing. You take a module designed to develop your expertise in editing your own and others work, and a module from another discipline. You will have, too, a choice of literature, or literature and language, modules that address carefully chosen and focused topics in a range of periods of English literature, and which are informed by theoretical as well as textual and historical approaches.

Final year

In the final year you embark on your Creative Writing Project. This will enable you to demonstrate your understanding of creative writing and the issues in literature that you will have built up over the previous two years. You have a choice of advanced literature and language modules, as well as the opportunity to take a module from outside the discipline.

Teaching and assessment

Over the course you will be taught in lectures and small groups by scholars who are experts in their fields. Creative Writing modules are taught by practising writers, experienced in passing their skills to others. You will be assessed in many different ways throughout the three years. You will write essays, take exams and give oral presentations. You will also produce portfolios of your creative and critical work.

English Language Requirements

CAE score : 80(Grade A)

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

Requirements

Number of A levels required: 3

Typical offer: AAA

Required subjects and grades: A level English Literature or English Language and Literature at grade A

Other qualifications are considered

IB: 36 point including English at Higher level with a minimum of 6 points

Additional information:

We do not ask applicants for English with Creative Writing to submit portfolios of their work: instead we ask that you give evidence in your application of your interest in and experience of creative writing, as well as your reasons for wishing to pursue the subject at university-level.

Standard English language requirements apply: IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band; TOEFL IBT 93

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

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 Birmingham.

The University of Birmingham offers a distinguished program in English with Creative Writing that is designed to nurture and develop students' abilities to craft compelling, original, and meaningful literary works across various genres. This program combines rigorous literary study with practical writing experience, enabling students to analyze key texts and develop their own creative voices. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of literary periods, styles, and theories, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the historical and cultural contexts that influence contemporary writing. The curriculum emphasizes both academic and practical skills, encouraging students to experiment with different forms of creative expression, including poetry, fiction, drama, and non-fiction.

Students on this program benefit from the expertise of renowned faculty members who are active writers and researchers, providing mentorship and insight into the creative process. The program also offers opportunities for students to participate in writing workshops, literary festivals, and events, which help to build their professional networks and enhance their portfolios. Facilities include dedicated writing spaces, libraries with extensive literary collections, and access to digital and print resources that support research and creative endeavors.

The course aims to prepare graduates for diverse career paths, including publishing, journalism, teaching, and freelance writing, as well as further academic study at postgraduate levels. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, articulate communication, and independent artistic practice, equipping students with skills highly valued across many industries. Students are encouraged to explore their individuality and cultural perspectives through their writing, with the possibility to collaborate with other Creative Arts disciplines. Overall, the University of Birmingham's English with Creative Writing program offers a stimulating environment that nurtures both academic excellence and creative talent, producing well-rounded graduates ready to engage with the literary world and beyond.