Creative Writing Birmingham City University

Overview

The MA in Creative Writing at Birmingham City University is crafted to help aspiring writers unlock their potential across various genres, including fiction, poetry, and screenwriting. The programme is delivered by accomplished authors and supported by a rich array of guest seminars and masterclasses conducted by industry professionals, including editors and literary agents, through our Institute of Creative and Critical Writing.

Our course is structured to foster continuous learning and creativity, enabling you to refine your writing practice while cultivating essential literary knowledge and critical sensitivity. You will engage in an atmosphere that encourages creative experimentation, drawing parallels between writing and the professional training experienced by artists in other fields. This approach connects you with the broader creative sector, enhancing your understanding of the literary landscape.

Throughout the programme, you will have opportunities to develop your writing across multiple forms, guided by specialists in fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction. The course is deeply rooted in the belief that literature plays a vital role in civic and cultural life, encouraging students to engage with the literary community beyond the university's walls. Partnerships with organisations such as Writing West Midlands and the Birmingham Literature Festival enrich your learning experience and provide networking opportunities.

Writers are often viewed as both creators and critical thinkers. Thus, our curriculum interweaves creative writing with critical analysis, allowing you to explore writing as a form of knowledge and research. Each module is designed to facilitate the application of critical methods to your own work while considering the contexts in which your writing will be received.

As part of the programme, you will enhance your confidence in presenting your work across various platforms, including print and digital media, as well as public readings. The small class sizes foster a supportive community of writers, ensuring personalised attention from tutors who share their insights and experiences.

Students enrolled in the MA Creative Writing programme also participate in the editorial committee for an annual anthology of new creative writing, benefiting from guidance by an experienced Editorial Consultant. Additionally, an exclusive writing retreat is offered each spring, providing a focused environment for students to develop their projects further.

The course also includes an optional professional placement, allowing you to gain practical experience within the industry for 20 weeks after completing your taught modules. While placements are not guaranteed, you will have access to the university's extensive network of employers and support from the Careers team to help secure a suitable opportunity.

Why Creative Writing at Birmingham City University?

Birmingham City University boasts a strong reputation for creative writing, with a track record of alumni who have secured publishing contracts, produced work for the BBC, and achieved recognition in prestigious literary competitions. Our Institute of Creative and Critical Writing hosts a vibrant programme of seminars and public events that foster collaboration among writers, academics, and industry professionals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the MA in Creative Writing are as follows:

• International Students: £18,600 per year
• UK Students: £9,190 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum comprises core modules that total 180 credits, including:

• Reading into Writing
• The Writer’s Craft
• Literature in Practice
• Specialist Workshops – Creative Writing
• Major Project: Creative Writing

Each module is designed to enhance your writing skills and critical understanding, preparing you for a successful career in the creative industries.