English and Creative Writing

English and creative writing is a pairing that develops both critical readers and practising writers, and the two activities are more deeply connected than they might first appear. Reading literature closely, understanding how writers make their choices and what effects those choices produce, is one of the most effective ways to develop as a writer yourself. Conversely, the experience of trying to write well sharpens your sensitivity as a reader, making you alert to how language works that purely analytical study rarely achieves on its own.

At Leeds Beckett University this part-time programme, which includes a year abroad, benefits from the cultural richness of Leeds itself, a city with a significant and active literary and arts scene. The programme draws on connections with Leeds museums and galleries, regional events including Leeds Lit Fest, poetry performance events, and the Leeds West Indian Carnival, giving your studies a genuine grounding in living literary culture rather than purely academic study. Your English work will range across poetry, fiction, drama, and other forms, developing your capacity to read and analyse literature from different periods and traditions with care and precision.

Your creative writing work will develop your voice, your technical skills, and your ability to give and receive constructive feedback.

The year abroad provides an opportunity to study at a partner institution and engage with English-language or other literature from a different cultural context, adding an international dimension to your critical and creative development.

Graduates of English and creative writing programmes move into careers in publishing, editing, journalism, copywriting, content creation, teaching, arts administration, and a wide range of other roles where strong writing and analytical skills are valued. Many also continue to postgraduate study in creative writing, publishing, literature, or education.