Creative and Critical Writing University of Suffolk

Overview

Overview

The MA in Creative and Critical Writing  offered by University of Suffolk offers you the opportunity to focus on your passion for creative writing whilst engaging with the most up-to-date debates in critical theory. On the course, you will develop skills as a creative writer, reader and researcher, broadening your knowledge of the production and reception of literature under the supervision of qualified academics and award-winning authors. You will experience an integrated approach to creative writing and contemporary developments in critical and cultural theories while exploring a range of established and evolving literary genres, such as historical fiction, memoir, and children’s literature.

Studying the MA in Creative and Critical Writing is an inclusive, student-centred experience. Our taught modules connect with and reflect on each other, fostering intellectual curiosity and inviting you to enhance your creative and critical writing skills both separately and as a blended form. In seminars and intensive writing workshops, you will develop your ideas, voice, listening skills, writing techniques and craft, honing practice through sharing and critiquing work in progress. You will be introduced to the industry through guest lectures and workshops delivered by publishers, editors and literary agents. You will also learn how to nourish your ideas in the production of a dissertation and a substantial body of professional-standard work. There are also exciting opportunities during your studies, including exclusive writing competitions such as the Student New Angle Prize. Read some of this year's blog entries on our Life at Suffolk blog page.

The MA in Creative and Critical Writing reflects the research interests and expertise of staff teaching English within the School of Social Sciences and Humanities. The course is underpinned by our shared ethos that all writing is critically reflective and creative, opening up new possibilities for creative fusion, innovative fiction, and original insights in academic writing. Our approach enables you to make scholarly and imaginative connections between writing and theory within a vibrant multidisciplinary environment dedicated to excellence in teaching, learning and research. The course is delivered as a flexible programme, accommodating full and part-time study routes, as well as CPD opportunities.Career opportunities:

The MA in Creative and Critical Writing is designed to support you in a number of professional contexts such as teaching, publishing, editing, and professional writing, as well as enhancing life skills and providing access to doctoral-level study. The course addresses the needs of regional professionals in the creative industries seeking the next generation of writers in Suffolk and responds to an increasingly complex job market which prioritises creative approaches.

The English team has established partnerships with a number of organisations including the New Wolsey Theatre, the Red Rose Chain, the Ipswich Institute, and the Suffolk Book League. The development of the Hold and ties with Suffolk Record Office also provide greater opportunities for students to access local information and collaborate with the initiatives of the Suffolk Archives. Our partnerships aim to be mutually beneficial, always ensuring a greater quality of experience for our students while supporting local organisations and giving back to the community.

Any of our optional modules can be completed individually as CPD opportunities prior to course enrolment. This includes our 'Writers in Residence' module, which invites you to build fruitful relationships within a chosen residency, community or environment. As the potential for residences is rapidly growing and extremely varied across the UK, our course encourages you to think and act autonomously in planning and engaging with the role of the writer in the community.