Creative Writing MA

Overview

The Creative Writing MA is a postgraduate program that allows students to explore their creative writing skills in a supportive environment. The course is designed to help students develop their writing techniques, experiment with different forms and genres, and produce a portfolio of creative work.

Course Structure

The course consists of four core modules:

Core Modules

• Core Skills and Techniques: This introductory module allows students to explore and express their ideas in a supportive environment. Learning activities are designed to support students in establishing or deepening their creative practice and gathering ideas with an emphasis on developing their confidence, identifying their core strengths and interests, and extending their skills and knowledge.
• Creative Writing Project: This project draws together the learning and development students have gained throughout the course. Students complete this independent research project under the supervision of their tutor. With regular guidance and support, students develop an initial project proposal outlining their key aims and objectives, and work this into a final portfolio of creative writing (in any form or genre), of publishable standard. Students also produce an accompanying reflective and critical analysis of their work. This forms their final submission for the master’s award.
• The Professional Writer in the World: Students consider and frame their writing within contemporary contexts, developing the skills they need to thrive as a professional writer in the world. Students explore some of the many ways and contexts in which writers work, and the skills required to make an income as a writer or enjoy a sustainable writing life.
• Writing and the Self: Students explore the connections between creativity, writing, and the self, and reflect on the idea of the self in the writing process and use key ideas and theories drawn from literary autobiography, life writing, autofiction, narrative theory, and the psychology of creativity to develop their work and process.

How You Learn

The campus-based course is taught by blended learning - a mix of face-to-face classroom sessions and distance learning. The classroom sessions are held on Tuesday evenings from 6.00pm - 9.00pm. The distance learning elements are not taught at a set time. Students can access the course space and complete the coursework at times that work best for them.

How You Are Assessed

Each taught 30-credit module is assessed against clear learning outcomes through written assignments, usually consisting of both creative work and some critical or reflective work. In addition to the taught modules, students produce a final project (60 credits) in their chosen form and genre.

Entry Requirements

Students should normally have an undergraduate degree of 2.2 or above in English, creative writing, or a cognate discipline. Other relevant experience or equivalent qualifications are considered on an individual basis. Students are required to provide a portfolio of their creative writing of up to and no more than 2,000 words in any one or two forms or genres.

Employability

MA Creative Writing graduates go on to a wide choice of professions and careers. Apart from the more obvious routes of publishing, editing, and freelance writing, many work in the wider creative industries (television, journalism, new media) or in workplaces that require advanced writing skills.

Fees

• Full-time: £7,710 a year (UK applicants), £17,000 a year (international applicants)
• Part-time: £855 for each 20 credits (UK applicants)

Duration

• Full-time: within 1 year
• Part-time: 2 years

Start Date

September

Semester Dates

Available on the university website

Apply Now

Available on the university website

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Creative Writing MA at Teesside University:

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Degree Overview:

This program aims to:

• Refine your writing skills in diverse forms like fiction, poetry, life writing, and drama.
• Equip you with the knowledge and skills to thrive as a professional writer in today's world.
• Provide opportunities for publication, self-publication, and work with others using writing in various settings.
• Offer a flexible syllabus that allows you to develop your interests and explore the changing nature of creative writing and new readerships.
• Foster a supportive environment for innovation, adaptation, and improvisation across various genres.

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Outline:

The program comprises a blend of core and elective modules:

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Core Modules:

• Core Skills and Techniques: This introductory module helps you explore ideas, develop confidence, identify your strengths, and expand your skills.
You will learn various techniques and approaches to generate new ideas and improve your writing.
• Creative Writing Project: An independent research project where you develop a portfolio of publishable-quality creative writing in any form or genre.
You will also write a reflective and critical analysis of your work.
• The Professional Writer in the World: This module explores the different contexts and ways writers work, including skills needed to make a living as a writer.
You will learn about marketing, publishing, self-publishing, working with others, and potential career paths.
• Writing and the Self: This module explores the connections between creativity, writing, and the self.
You will learn how to overcome writing blocks, access greater fluidity, and rediscover the joy of writing.
• Writing Specialism: You will choose one area of interest (poetry or prose/fiction) and gain in-depth knowledge of techniques and approaches to develop your skills in that area.

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Schedule:

The program is taught through blended learning:

• Face-to-face: Tuesdays, 6:00pm - 9:00pm
• Distance learning: Online sessions with videos, writing prompts, and discussion forums.
You can access the materials and complete the coursework at your convenience.

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Assessment:

Each module is assessed against clear learning outcomes through written assignments, including creative work and critical or reflective writing. The final project (60 credits) is assessed based on your chosen form and genre.

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Teaching:

The program is taught by practicing writers, poets, and novelists who provide individual guidance and support. The blended learning approach allows for flexibility and personalized learning.

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Careers:

Graduates pursue diverse careers, including:

• Publishing
• Editing
• Freelance writing
• Creative industries (television, journalism, new media)
• Teaching and writing workshops
• Writing in therapeutic settings
• Other professions requiring advanced writing skills

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Other:

The program offers opportunities for:

• A £2,500 Sir Keith Skeoch postgraduate scholarship
• Launching professional websites, writing retreats, podcast series, workshops, events, and festivals
• Publishing your work
• Developing your teaching and workshopping skills
• Using writing in therapy, healthcare, and other professional settings

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• Full-time
2024/25 entry Fee for UK applicants £6,710 a year
• Fee for international applicants
£17,000 a year
• Part-time
2024/25 entry Fee for UK applicants £750 for each 20 credits

Teesside University

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Overview:

Teesside University is a public university located in Middlesbrough, Tees Valley, England. It is known for its strong focus on student experience, research, and business partnerships. The university has invested heavily in its campus, offering modern facilities and a vibrant learning environment.

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Services Offered:

Teesside University provides a wide range of services to its students, including:

Undergraduate and postgraduate study:

Offering a diverse selection of programs across various disciplines.

Short courses and CPD:

Providing opportunities for professional development and upskilling.

Online learning:

Delivering flexible and accessible learning options.

International student support:

Providing dedicated services for international students.

Career services:

Offering guidance and support for career planning and job searching.

Student support services:

Providing academic, personal, and financial support to students.

Library and IT facilities:

Offering access to extensive resources and technology.

Accommodation services:

Providing on-campus and off-campus accommodation options.

Sports and recreational facilities:

Offering a variety of sports and leisure activities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Teesside University prides itself on its close-knit and supportive community. Students can expect a vibrant campus life with:

Social events and activities:

Offering opportunities to connect with fellow students and engage in extracurricular activities.

Student societies and clubs:

Providing platforms for students to pursue their interests and develop their skills.

Campus facilities:

Including a modern library, sports facilities, and a variety of dining options.

A welcoming and inclusive environment:

Fostering a sense of belonging and diversity.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable excellence:

Offering a high-quality education at a competitive price.

Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF):

Recognized for its outstanding teaching and student experience.

World-leading research:

Conducting impactful research across various fields.

Strong industry partnerships:

Providing opportunities for students to gain practical experience and develop valuable connections.

Vibrant and supportive community:

Offering a welcoming and inclusive environment for students to thrive.

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Academic Programs:

Teesside University offers a wide range of academic programs across six schools:

School of Arts & Creative Industries

School of Computing, Engineering & Digital Technologies

School of Health & Life Sciences

School of Social Sciences, Humanities & Law

Teesside University International Business School

University departments

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Other:

Campus Masterplan:

Teesside University has invested £280 million in its campus to enhance the student experience and support the local community.

Strong commitment to equality and diversity:

Recognized as a top employer for its commitment to inclusivity.

Nationally recognized for its services to business:

Providing impactful partnerships with local and global organizations.

Located in a vibrant and affordable region:

Offering a unique blend of urban and rural experiences.