BA (Hons) in English Literature and Creative Writing with Study Abroad, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

48 Months

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About this course

This course offers a dynamic blend of English Literature and Creative Writing, allowing students to immerse themselves in both disciplines over four years. It emphasizes developing your own writing through experiments and workshops, with half of your time dedicated to creative modules. You’ll explore traditional literary forms such as poetry, short stories, novels, and plays, alongside non-traditional formats like digital media and writing for young adults. The program integrates practical feedback from celebrated authors and incorporates participation in student-run literary journals and literary events, ensuring a rich, communal learning environment. Located near the Romantic poets’ home in the Lake District, the university enhances your study of Romanticism and includes opportunities for fieldwork at local theatres and cultural sites. The program encourages experimentation, fostering both your critical and creative skills within a supportive community.

Why this course is highly recommended

Lancaster’s program is highly regarded for its long-standing history in teaching creative writing, dating back to 1970, and its strong reputation in English Literature, ranked 6th and 7th in the UK guides. The course offers personalized feedback from acclaimed authors and encourages exploration across numerous genres and formats. Its location in Lancaster, close to the Lake District and historic Lancaster city, offers inspiring fieldwork opportunities and cultural experiences. The course’s focus on developing your own writing, alongside understanding literary history and theory, makes it ideal for creative students who want a blend of practice and critical engagement. The supportive community, small-group workshops, and rich literary activities ensure a nurturing environment for aspiring writers and literary scholars.

Specialisation

Students can focus on a broad spectrum of genres including poetry, the novel, theatre, fantasy, digital media, and writing for young audiences. The course explores themes across different eras and cultural contexts, from Medieval to contemporary literature, and integrates creative practices with literary research. In the final year, there is a chance to specialise further with modules like Advanced Creative Writing and a dissertation tailored to your interests. The curriculum also emphasizes understanding the professional dimensions of writing, such as publishing, marketing, and performance, to prepare students for a diverse range of careers in literature and media.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.07L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need to meet typical qualifications, including AAB at A-level, with a requirement for IELTS score of 6.5 overall and at least 5.5 in each component for English language proficiency. The course prefers candidates with a strong interest and aptitude in literature and writing. Additional qualifications such as the IB or BTEC are also considered, and there is flexibility for students with relevant experience or alternative qualifications as per specific entry criteria. The program welcomes applications from diverse educational backgrounds, and students are advised to check the detailed entry requirements for their country or qualification type.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates of this program have built successful careers in various fields such as publishing, journalism, television, media, teaching, and librarianship. Many have published their own stories, poems, and novels or had scripts produced for festivals and radio. The transferable skills gained—communication, research, critical thinking, and self-expression—also open doors to careers in marketing, advertising, law, social work, and business. Some alumni work internationally, teaching English, working in creative industries, or in roles such as speech therapists, programmers, or finance professionals. The course prepares students for a wide array of career paths, including further postgraduate study or industry roles combining creativity and critical analysis.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements for this course?

Typically, AAB at A-level is required, with specific subject and language proficiency requirements, including IELTS score of 6.5 overall with no component below 5.5.

Are there opportunities for study abroad?

Yes, students will spend the third year studying at an international partner university, which helps develop global outlook and personal skills, with destinations including Australia, USA, Canada, and parts of Europe and Asia.