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
- Deep understanding of American literature.
- Enhancing critical thinking, analytical, and research skills.
- Boosting written and oral communication.
- Promoting creativity and imagination.
- Preparing for related fields.
Prerequisites
- A strong academic background in English and literature.
- English language proficiency for international students.
- A passion for reading and writing.
- Solid communication and interpersonal skills.
- Desire for positive impact.
Curriculum Outline
- Poetry-Politics-Protest
- Staging Politics
- Storying The Self
- Writers on Writing
- Stories that Transform
- The Nineteenth Century in Literature
- British Literature and Twentieth-century History
- Research and Practice
- Dissertation
- Brighton Rocks: Final Year Show
- Literature and Philosophy
- Post-war American Literature
- Literature and the World Wars
- Women's Writing and Feminist Theory
- Restoration Dramas
- Adaptations
- Citizen Journalism: Theory and Practice
- Creative Writing Project
- From Script to Screen
- Conflict, Migration, Borders
- Reading and Writing Landscape
- Autoethnography
- Gothic: Texts and Contexts
Teaching Method
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Study group
- Small tutorial group
- Undertake co-operative work
- Training courses
- Guest lectures
Modules
- Introducing America, 1600-1900
- Thinking as a Critic
- Introduction to Poetry
- Introduction to Creative Writing
- Why Write? The History and Theory of Creative Writing
- The American Century, 1900-2000
- Playwriting
- Fiction
- Poetry
- Playwriting 2
- Fiction 2
- Poetry 2
- Creative Writing Special Focus (Term 1)
- Creative Writing: Special Focus (Term 2)
- Dark Reform: Scandal and Satire in American Culture
- Contemporary Debates in Literary and Critical Theory
- Literature of the Fin de Siècle, 1883-1903
- Literature and the Digital
- Literature, the Digital and the Creative Industries
- Special Topic: The Great American Novella
- The Literature of Chicago
- African-American Literature
- Of Circumference: Emily Dickinson
Assessment Methods
- Exams
- Essays
- Take-away papers
- Projects
- 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:
- 03 years (full-time).
Facilities
- Extensive collections of books, journals, and digital resources
- Specialized research facilities, including databases and archives
- Quiet study spaces and group study rooms
- Experienced faculty members
- Regular seminars, workshops, and guest lectures
- Opportunities for research projects and creative writing workshops
- Dedicated spaces for students to work on their writing
Career Pathways
- Poet
- Novelist
- Screenwriter
- Playwright
- Author
- Editor
- Copyeditor
- Proofreader
- Publishing Agent
- Journalist
- Content Writer
- Public Relations Specialist
- Social Media Manager
- Teacher
- Lecturer
- Tutor
- Librarian
- Arts Administrator
- Grant Writer
- Cultural Consultant
Fees and Fundings
- Tuition fees are £25,900 per year and may vary depending on the institution.
- Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
- Government loan aid is available.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels: AAA-AAB.
- IELTS: 7.0 overall.
- Pearson Test of English: 69 overall.
- A in an essay-based Arts and Humanities subject at A-Level.
- Five GCSEs at grade A*-C or 9-4 including English and Mathematics.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- A strong academic record.
Field Work and Internships
- Participate in cultural exchange programmes or volunteer work to experience firsthand.
- Opportunities for valuable experience through internships, placements, and work facilities.
Certifications
- Certified Professional Editor (CPE)
- Proofreading Certificate
- Certified Professional Copy Editor (CPCE)
- Certified Professional Writer (CPW)
- Certified Professional Copywriter (CPC)
- Certified Content Marketer (CCM)
- Certified Technical Communicator (CTC)
- Project Management Professional (PMP) Certifications
- Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) Certifications
Intakes
Typically, it takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:
- Fall (September/October)
- Spring (January/February)
- 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.