BA (Hons) English: Creative and Professional Writing

Program Overview

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The BA (Hons) English: Creative and Professional Writing program at the University of Sunderland equips students with the skills and knowledge to succeed as writers in various industries. The program emphasizes creative talents, critical thinking, and writing abilities in both fictional and non-fictional forms. Students gain real-world experience through industry placements and collaborations, preparing them for careers in publishing, media, marketing, and related fields.

Program Outline

• Program Overview

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Objectives:

• The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as professional writers in a range of industries, including publishing, the literary arts, media, script and screen writing, marketing, communications, and related fields.
• The program emphasizes the development of students' creative talents, critical thinking, and writing abilities in both fictional and non-fictional forms.
• The program provides students with opportunities to gain real-world experience through industry placements and collaborations with established organizations.

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Program Description:

• This is a 3-year (6-year part-time) BA (Hons) degree program delivered by the University of Sunderland's Faculty of Arts and Creative Industries.
• The program combines traditional English literature studies with innovative teaching, exciting industry connections, and practical experience opportunities.
• The program focuses on developing students' creative and professional writing skills in a variety of genres, including poetry, prose, scriptwriting, and media writing.
• The program curriculum includes modules on literary analysis, creative writing, language study, the business of writing, and professional development.
• Students have the opportunity to specialize in a chosen area of interest in their final year through a major project.
• The program offers regular guest lectures and workshops led by established writers and professionals in the creative industries.
• Students have access to a dedicated team of academic staff and writing mentors who provide individual support and guidance.

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Outline

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Program Content:

• Language study
• Literature
• Creative writing
• Professional writing
• Business of writing
• Media writing
• Scriptwriting
• Major project
• Optional modules

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Structure:

• The program is divided into three levels: Level 4, Level 5, and Level 6.
• Each level comprises four modules, with two modules per semester.
• Students complete a major project in their final year.
• The program offers a variety of optional modules across different areas of writing and related fields.

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Course Schedule:

• The program typically follows a two-semester academic year.
• Modules are typically taught in a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent study.
• Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes and actively participate in discussions and activities.

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Individual Modules:

• The Fundamentals of English Language Study: Introduces students to the study of language, with a focus on contemporary English.
• Regional Writing: Language: Develops students' knowledge of regional writing and dialect through close study of texts and linguistic analysis.
• Writing Poetry and Prose: Focuses on the study of poetic and prose forms, their structures, and writing techniques.
• Reading and Literature: Explores different approaches to reading prose, poetry, and drama.
• The Business of Writing: Editing and Publishing: Examines the contemporary publishing landscape and the skills required for careers in the field.
• Mini Project: Provides students with the opportunity to complete a short group project related to program themes.
• Language and Society: Explores the interaction between language and social contexts.
• Regional Writing: Literature: Builds on the study of regional and working-class writers and literature.
• Submitting Poetry and Prose: Provides students with opportunities to explore contemporary writing and build their skills in submitting work for publication.
• Texts and Contexts: Introduces students to key periods in literary history and different genres.
• Business of Writing: Pitching, Funding, and Placement: Develops students' professional skills and prepares them for seeking opportunities in the writing industry.
• Optional Modules: Students can choose from a range of optional modules depending on their interests and career goals.

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Assessment

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Assessment Methods:

• Essays
• Creative writing portfolio
• Critical analysis
• Pitching and presentation
• Industry placement report
• Major project

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Assessment Criteria:

• Critical thinking
• Research skills
• Writing ability
• Creativity
• Professionalism
• Original ideas
• Ability to meet deadlines

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Feedback:

• Students receive regular feedback on their work throughout the program.
• Feedback is provided by academic staff and peers.
• Feedback is designed to help students improve their work and develop their skills.

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Teaching

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Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Independent study
• Individual feedback
• Guest lectures
• Industry placements

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced academics and professional writers.
• Staff have expertise in a wide range of areas, including creative writing, literature, language, media, and publishing.
• Staff are committed to providing students with a high-quality learning experience and individual support.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes the integration of creative and professional writing skills.
• Students have the opportunity to gain real-world experience through industry placements and collaborations with established organizations.
• The program offers a dedicated space for creative practice and writing workshops.
• Students have access to a dedicated team of academic staff and writing mentors who provide feedback and guidance.

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Careers

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Potential Career Paths:

• Novelist
• Poet
• Journalist
• Copywriter
• Editor
• Content writer
• Social media manager
• Games narrative designer
• Scriptwriter
• Publicist
• Public relations specialist
• Communications specialist
• Marketing specialist

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Opportunities:

• The program prepares students for a wide range of careers in the creative industries and beyond.
• Graduates have secured positions in publishing houses, literary agencies, media companies, marketing firms, and communication agencies.
• Many graduates have successfully launched their own writing careers as writers, editors, and content creators.

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Outcomes:

• The program aims to produce graduates who are highly skilled and employable in the writing industry.
• Graduates are equipped with the critical thinking, creative writing, and professional skills they need to succeed in a variety of careers.

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Other

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Industry Partnerships:

• The program has strong links with a range of local and national organizations in the creative industries.
• Students have the opportunity to network with industry professionals and gain valuable insights into the writing industry.

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Creative Writing Festival:

• Students have the opportunity to participate in the Sunderland Creative Writing Festival and the Sunderland Literature Festival.
• These events provide opportunities to engage with established writers, attend workshops, and showcase their work.

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MediaHUB:

• Students have access to the University's MediaHUB, a media center that provides opportunities for students to gain experience in journalism, content creation, and media production.

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Support Services:

• The University provides a range of support services to students, including academic advice, career guidance, and wellbeing support.

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Conclusion The BA (Hons) English: Creative and Professional Writing program at the University of Sunderland is a comprehensive and innovative program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the writing industry. The program combines rigorous academic study with practical experience and industry connections, providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed as creative and professional writers.

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The annual, full-time fee for this course is: £9,250 if you are from the UK/Europe £16,000 if you are an international student (EU nationals will receive a £5,750 scholarship to reduce their fee to £10,250) Tuition fees for part-time students are £6,935 per 120 credits. Please note that part-time courses are not available to international students who require a Student visa to study in the UK.

• The discounted fee will be reflected in your offer letter.
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