Modern Scottish Writing

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More than a decade after devolution, Scotlands national status is both dangled before us and tantalisingly withheld (Don Paterson).

The Stirling Masters course views Scottish literature in the light of this ambiguity, from a perspective shaped by critical theory as well as traditional literary history. Our focus is the unusually strong role played by literature in sustaining the reality and difference of Scottish culture over the past three centuries not forgetting the role of novelists and poets in integrating Scottish identity into the project of Britishness. As debate intensifies over Scotlands political status, the time is ripe to examine the role of writing in shaping the image and reality of the nation.

Course objectives
This course explores modern Scottish literature in relation to the ambivalent condition of Scottish history and identity.

We focus on writing from Robert Burns, Walter Scott and James Hogg, through Victorian and late 19th-century writers (Galt, Buchan, Stevenson) to the modernist experiments of Hugh MacDiarmid and his followers, and on to provocative 20th-century experiments in language, textuality and historical re-telling (Welsh, Galloway, Kelman, Spark, Gray, Saadi, Robertson).

No previous experience in studying Scottish literature is required. Leading Scottish writers and critics feature prominently in assigned reading, as do theorists of cultural modernity.

Career opportunities
Completing a Masters degree as a prelude to further academic research is an increasingly common pattern of study for young scholars, and is a route encouraged by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). Advanced education in the Arts, the practical experience of research and the production of a dissertation are significant transferable skills for many careers in business and the professions.

Skills you can develop through this course
An English degree is acknowledged by potential employers as providing important skills, such as motivation, intelligence, and the ability to meet deadlines. Although English is not a specifically vocational degree it offers a number of important transferable skills, such as the ability to write clearly, effectively, accurately and persuasively.

Seminar discussion and oral presentations (required by many of our modules) help to develop your spoken communication skills. The critical and reflexive study of a variety of texts (literary and non-literary) teaches you how to analyse and interpret complex information and to apply abstract concepts and theories. Our criteria for assessment also requires students to be able to synthesise conclusions, to assimilate existing research and to construct and defend an argument clearly and cogently.

Throughout their degrees, our students are also trained to use library and bibliographic resources effectively and appropriately, to reference accurately, and to present their work professionally. All of these skills are essential to many kinds of work, which is why so many employers recognise the value of an English Degree.

In a recent report, graduates of English were as likely (if not more) to be in professional or managerial jobs three to three and a half years after graduation than graduates in other subjects (including science and social science subjects). Almost fifty percent of English graduates pursue further education within three years of graduating from their undergraduate degree, often as a route to a professional career, such as teaching or law.

Chances to expand your horizons
During the semester the department runs a number of lively literary seminars for students and staff alike, in which writers, staff members, postgraduate students and distinguished visiting scholars give papers on their work and special interests.

We are fortunate in that the MacRobert Arts Centre is at the centre of the University, presenting a widely varied programme of film, drama and music throughout the year. Small magazines are published on campus and the Literary Society organizes visits from distinguished creative writers each year, along with theatre trips to Glasgow and Edinburgh. Finally, the University Drama Society is very active, producing about seven plays a year, including performances at the Edinburgh Festival.

The Master of Arts in Modern Scottish Writing at the University of Stirling offers a comprehensive exploration of contemporary Scottish literature, cultural expressions, and literary criticism. This programme is designed for students who are passionate about understanding the literary landscape of Scotland from the 20th century to the present day. Throughout the course, students will engage with a diverse range of texts, including poetry, fiction, drama, and essays, written by some of Scotland's most influential writers. The curriculum emphasizes both historical context and contemporary relevance, encouraging students to analyze how Scottish writers have contributed to national identity, cultural debates, and global literary trends.

The programme consists of core modules that establish foundational knowledge of Scottish literary history, alongside optional modules allowing specialization in areas such as Scottish poetry, narrative techniques, or literary theory. Participants will develop critical skills through seminar discussions, essay writing, and independent research projects. Additionally, students will have opportunities to examine the role of Scottish literature in social and political movements, and its influence on contemporary media and popular culture. The programme also offers practical components, including creative writing workshops and opportunities for peer review, enabling students to hone their own writing skills while critically engaging with existing works.

Lecturers delivering the programme are experienced scholars with extensive publications and research in Scottish literature, ensuring that students receive expert guidance and mentorship. The University of Stirling's vibrant academic environment promotes collaborative learning and provides access to extensive resources, including specialized libraries and digital archives. Graduates of the programme will be equipped with advanced analytical abilities, research skills, and cultural insights that prepare them for careers in academia, publishing, arts management, or further postgraduate study. Overall, the Modern Scottish Writing programme offers an in-depth and enriching academic experience for anyone interested in exploring Scotland’s rich literary heritage and contemporary voices.

The program in Modern Scottish Writing at the University of Stirling requires applicants to have a relevant academic qualification or equivalent experience demonstrating a strong interest in Scottish literature and culture. Entry is competitive and may consider personal statements, references, and prior academic performance. The course is designed for students who wish to develop advanced understanding of contemporary and historical Scottish writing, including prose, poetry, and other literary forms. Students are expected to engage critically with texts, participate actively in seminars and workshops, and complete written assignments and research projects. A background in literary studies or related disciplines is preferred but not mandatory. The program includes modules covering Scottish literary history, authorship, and thematic studies relevant to Scottish identity and societal issues. To progress through the course, students must complete all coursework satisfactorily and achieve the required attendance and participation standards. There may be prerequisites for some modules, such as introductory courses in literary analysis or Scottish history. The program encourages independent research and critical thinking, culminating in a dissertation or major project on a chosen aspect of Scottish writing. International applicants must meet English language requirements, typically an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, demonstrating proficiency in academic English. The course is structured to provide flexibility for part-time or full-time study, with opportunities for practical engagement with Scottish literary communities and events. Successful graduates will be well-equipped with analytical skills and comprehensive knowledge to pursue careers in academia, publishing, cultural sectors, or related fields, as well as for further postgraduate study in Scottish literature or related disciplines.

Funding options for the Modern Scottish Writing program at the University of Stirling include a range of financial support measures designed to assist students throughout their studies. Prospective students can explore scholarships, bursaries, and grants offered by the university, which are available based on various criteria such as academic achievement, financial need, and specific eligibility requirements. The university also provides information about government-funded financial aid programs, including student loans and grants, which can help cover tuition fees and living expenses. International students have access to particular scholarships and funding opportunities aimed at supporting their postgraduate education experiences. Additionally, there are departmental and external funding sources that students may apply for, such as research grants and specialized literary awards. The university offers guidance and resources to assist students in identifying suitable funding options and applying effectively. Part-time work opportunities on campus or in the local community are also encouraged, providing students with supplementary income and valuable work experience. It is recommended that applicants review the university’s official financial support webpage and contact the admissions or student services departments for detailed, up-to-date information on available funding schemes, application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Securing appropriate funding is an important step in planning the postgraduate journey, and the university is committed to supporting students in accessing financial assistance to enable successful completion of the Modern Scottish Writing program.

Modern Scottish Writing at the University of Stirling offers students an in-depth exploration of contemporary Scottish literature, focusing on innovative writing practices, cultural narratives, and the development of Scottish literary identity. The program encompasses a range of modules that cover themes such as Scottish history, identity, language, and their influences on modern literary output. Students engage with a diverse array of texts, including fiction, poetry, drama, and digital media, gaining critical insight into their cultural context. The curriculum is designed to develop both analytical and creative skills, encouraging students to examine literary trends and produce their original work rooted in Scottish traditions and modernity.

Throughout the course, learners have opportunities to work with renowned authors, poets, and scholars through seminars, workshops, and guest lectures, providing invaluable industry insights. The program emphasizes interdisciplinarity, combining literary study with cultural studies, history, and media, fostering a comprehensive understanding of Scottish cultural expression. Practical writing workshops enable students to refine their craft, while research assignments develop their analytical and interpretive abilities.

The program also supports placements and collaborations with Scottish literary organizations, publishers, and festivals, providing students with real-world experience and networking opportunities within the Scottish literary scene. Graduates of the program are equipped for diverse careers in editing, publishing, education, media, and creative writing, with a strong foundation in the cultural and literary history of Scotland. The university’s commitment to fostering vibrant academic environments ensures students are engaged with current scholarly debates and emerging literary trends.

Studying Modern Scottish Writing at Stirling allows students to immerse themselves in a unique cultural landscape, learning from experienced faculty members dedicated to literary excellence and innovation. The program’s flexible structure accommodates various interests within Scottish literature, whether historical or contemporary, ensuring an enriching educational experience that emphasizes both critical understanding and creative expression.