MA English with Creative Writing
About this course
English literature and creative writing together form one of the most intellectually and artistically rich combinations available at degree level. Literary study asks you to read closely and critically, to understand how texts work and what they mean in their historical and cultural contexts, and to engage with the full range of human experience as expressed through language. Creative writing complements this by asking you to make something yourself, to inhabit the writer's position and understand through practice what reading has taught you to observe. At the University of Aberdeen, both strands are taught within a highly regarded literary culture that includes acclaimed writers and poets, an award-winning library, and a vigorous calendar of literary events. This four-year programme gives you access to a broad curriculum in English literature spanning poetry, fiction, drama, and non-fiction across historical periods and cultural traditions. Alongside your literary studies you will develop your own writing under the guidance of practising authors, working across genres and receiving the critical feedback that is essential to improving as a writer. The programme includes a year abroad, giving you the experience of studying in a different cultural and literary environment, which many students find transformative for both their critical thinking and their creative work. Graduates with a background in English and creative writing go on to work in publishing, journalism, education, broadcasting, communications, marketing, arts administration, and the wider creative industries. Many pursue careers as writers, editors, copywriters, or communications professionals. The skills of close reading, clear argument, and precise expression that the degree develops are valued across a very wide range of fields. Further study at master's or doctoral level is a common path for those wishing to pursue writing, research, or an academic career.
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