American Literature and Creative Writing

American Literature and Creative Writing

Overview

The BA (Hons) in American Literature and Creative Writing provides a comprehensive understanding of American literature from its beginnings to the present day. This programme empowers students to not only create original works of art but also to cultivate critical thinking and communication skills that are invaluable in various professional contexts.

Students will apply these skills to diverse fields, from journalism, website creation to advertising and academic publishing.

In addition to literary analysis, the programme offers opportunities for creative writing workshops and individual tutorials, allowing students to develop their own writing voice and style.

So, it is safe to say that the programme provides a unique blend of literary analysis and creative writing, focusing on the rich literary tradition of the United States.

Objectives

  1. Deep understanding of American literature.
  2. Enhancing critical thinking, analytical, and research skills.
  3. Boosting written and oral communication.
  4. Promoting creativity and imagination.
  5. Preparing for related fields.

Prerequisites

  1. A strong academic background in English and literature.
  2. English language proficiency for international students.
  3. A passion for reading and writing.
  4. Solid communication and interpersonal skills.
  5. Desire for positive impact.

Curriculum Outline

  1. Poetry-Politics-Protest
  2. Staging Politics
  3. Storying The Self
  4. Writers on Writing
  5. Stories that Transform
  6. The Nineteenth Century in Literature
  7. British Literature and Twentieth-century History
  8. Research and Practice
  9. Dissertation
  10. Brighton Rocks: Final Year Show
  11. Literature and Philosophy
  12. Post-war American Literature
  13. Literature and the World Wars
  14. Women's Writing and Feminist Theory
  15. Restoration Dramas
  16. Adaptations
  17. Citizen Journalism: Theory and Practice
  18. Creative Writing Project
  19. From Script to Screen
  20. Conflict, Migration, Borders
  21. Reading and Writing Landscape
  22. Autoethnography
  23. Gothic: Texts and Contexts

Teaching Method

  1. Lectures
  2. Seminars
  3. Study group
  4. Small tutorial group
  5. Undertake co-operative work
  6. Training courses
  7. Guest lectures

Modules

  1. Introducing America, 1600-1900
  2. Thinking as a Critic
  3. Introduction to Poetry
  4. Introduction to Creative Writing
  5. Why Write? The History and Theory of Creative Writing
  6. The American Century, 1900-2000
  7. Playwriting
  8. Fiction
  9. Poetry
  10. Playwriting 2
  11. Fiction 2
  12. Poetry 2
  13. Creative Writing Special Focus (Term 1)
  14. Creative Writing: Special Focus (Term 2)
  15. Dark Reform: Scandal and Satire in American Culture
  16. Contemporary Debates in Literary and Critical Theory
  17. Literature of the Fin de Siècle, 1883-1903
  18. Literature and the Digital
  19. Literature, the Digital and the Creative Industries
  20. Special Topic: The Great American Novella
  21. The Literature of Chicago
  22. African-American Literature
  23. Of Circumference: Emily Dickinson

Assessment Methods

  1. Exams
  2. Essays
  3. Take-away papers
  4. Projects
  5. Marked presentations in some courses

Course Duration

This programme may vary depending on the institutions and countries, but the general standard options in the UK are:

  1. 03 years (full-time).

Facilities

  1. Extensive collections of books, journals, and digital resources
  2. Specialized research facilities, including databases and archives
  3. Quiet study spaces and group study rooms
  4. Experienced faculty members
  5. Regular seminars, workshops, and guest lectures
  6. Opportunities for research projects and creative writing workshops
  7. Dedicated spaces for students to work on their writing

Career Pathways

  1. Poet
  2. Novelist
  3. Screenwriter
  4. Playwright
  5. Author
  6. Editor
  7. Copyeditor
  8. Proofreader
  9. Publishing Agent
  10. Journalist
  11. Content Writer
  12. Public Relations Specialist
  13. Social Media Manager
  14. Teacher
  15. Lecturer
  16. Tutor
  17. Librarian
  18. Arts Administrator
  19. Grant Writer
  20. Cultural Consultant

Fees and Fundings

  1. Tuition fees are £25,900 per year and may vary depending on the institution.
  2. Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
  3. Government loan aid is available.

Entry Requirements

  1. A Levels: AAA-AAB.
  2. IELTS: 7.0 overall.
  3. Pearson Test of English: 69 overall.
  4. A in an essay-based Arts and Humanities subject at A-Level.
  5. Five GCSEs at grade A*-C or 9-4 including English and Mathematics.
  6. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  7. A strong academic record.

Field Work and Internships

  1. Participate in cultural exchange programmes or volunteer work to experience firsthand.
  2. Opportunities for valuable experience through internships, placements, and work facilities.

Certifications

  1. Certified Professional Editor (CPE)
  2. Proofreading Certificate
  3. Certified Professional Copy Editor (CPCE)
  4. Certified Professional Writer (CPW)
  5. Certified Professional Copywriter (CPC)
  6. Certified Content Marketer (CCM)
  7. Certified Technical Communicator (CTC)
  8. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certifications
  9. Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) Certifications

Intakes

Typically, it takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:

  1. Fall (September/October)
  2. Spring (January/February)
  3. Summer (May/June)

Student Testimony


"On the degree there are no stressful exams and we get time to prepare our work for assessment, and the topic choices and ways of presenting them are very open for us to interpret." Says - "Angelica, English Literature and Creative Writing student."

Frequently asked questions

This programme offers a unique blend of literary analysis and creative writing, focusing on the rich literary tradition of the United States. Students will not only delve into classic and contemporary American literature but also develop their own writing skills through workshops and individual tutorials.

Additional courses of interest