Creative Writing BA

A Creative Writing degree allows students to develop their writing skills across fiction, poetry, scriptwriting, and non-fiction while learning about literary techniques, publishing, and storytelling traditions. It is a degree for students who love words, enjoy experimenting with language, and want to pursue careers in writing, publishing or the creative industries.

Course Structure

Most Creative Writing degrees last three years full time, or four years with a placement or study abroad option. Courses are often offered as single honours or combined with English Literature, Film, or Media. Teaching includes workshops, seminars, lectures, and one-to-one tutorials. Assessment is through portfolios of original writing, reflective commentaries, essays, presentations and a final-year dissertation or creative project.

Typical Modules

Year 1

Introduction to Creative Writing

Writing Fiction: Short Stories and Novels

Writing Poetry

Reading as a Writer

Introduction to Scriptwriting

Year 2

Advanced Fiction Writing

Creative Non-Fiction

Writing for Stage, Screen and Radio

Experimental and Digital Writing

Professional Writing and Editing

Year 3

Major Creative Writing Project or Dissertation

Publishing and the Writing Industry

Writing and Cultural Contexts

Optional specialist workshops (crime fiction, children’s writing, fantasy, or memoir)

Entry Requirements

Typical entry requirements are BCC–ABB at A level, or equivalent UCAS tariff points. Most universities prefer English Literature or English Language and Literature but some accept applicants based on a strong writing portfolio.

Useful Entry Subjects

• A levels: English Literature (often required), English Language, Drama, Media Studies, History.

  
  

• BTEC: Creative Media, Performing Arts.

  
  

• T Levels: Digital Production or Media pathways may be relevant.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Higher Level English, plus another essay-based subject.

  
  

What Makes a Strong Application

A strong application for Creative Writing should include:

• A portfolio of writing (short stories, poetry, plays, blog posts or other creative work).

  
  

• Evidence of passion for storytelling and literature.

  
  

• A personal statement that shows originality, creativity, and enthusiasm for writing.

  
  

• Engagement with wider literary culture, such as attending workshops, reading widely, or writing for school magazines or online platforms.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

A Creative Writing degree develops skills valuable in many careers, such as:

• Creative and critical thinking

  
  

• Communication and storytelling

  
  

• Editing and proofreading

  
  

• Research and analysis

  
  

• Project management and self-discipline

  
  

• Collaboration through workshops and peer review

  
  

• Understanding of publishing and digital media

Personality Type It Suits

This degree suits students who are imaginative, reflective and self-motivated. It appeals to those who enjoy experimenting with ideas, working independently, and sharing work in collaborative workshops.

Career Options After Graduation

Creative Writing graduates can pursue careers in:

• Novelist, Poet or Playwright

  
  

• Screenwriting for TV, Film or Radio

  
  

• Journalism and Blogging

  
  

• Publishing and Editing

  
  

• Marketing, PR and Copywriting

  
  

• Digital Content Creation

  
  

• Teaching (with further qualifications)

  
  

• Postgraduate study in writing, literature or creative industries

  
  

Typical Pay After Graduation

Starting salaries are typically £21,000–£26,000 in areas like publishing, copywriting or journalism. Successful freelance writers and authors may earn significantly more depending on their work and publishing contracts, while senior roles in communications or media can reach £40,000–£50,000+.

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Students

Here are four inspiring guides for creative writers:

“On Writing” by Stephen King – A blend of memoir and writing advice.

“Bird by Bird” by Anne Lamott – Honest and humorous advice for writers.

“The Writing Life” by Annie Dillard – Reflections on the craft of writing.

“The Creative Writing Coursebook” by Julia Bell and Paul Magrs – Practical exercises from established writers.