English: Creative and Professional Writing

Creative and professional writing sits at the junction of artistic practice and practical communication, developing skills that are valuable in literary contexts and in the broader world of professional life. Writers today work across an enormous range of forms, from fiction and poetry to journalism, content strategy, copywriting and corporate communications, and a degree that combines both creative and professional dimensions prepares you for that breadth. The discipline asks you to develop your voice, your craft and your ability to adapt to different audiences and purposes.

At the University of Sunderland, this three-year programme encourages you to explore and develop your own creative talent while also building the practical skills that a writing career demands. You will develop your abilities across different forms and genres, experiment with your own voice, and refine your work through workshop feedback and independent practice. Alongside the creative curriculum, you will gain skills in pitching, presenting and networking, and you will have the opportunity to work with organisations to develop your professional portfolio.

The combination of creative development and industry-facing skills means you graduate ready to pursue a writing career with both artistic confidence and practical knowledge.

Graduates from creative and professional writing degrees go on to wide-ranging careers. Some work as novelists, poets, playwrights or screenwriters, often combining creative work with other employment. Others pursue careers in publishing, journalism, copywriting, content creation, public relations, marketing communications or teaching.

The transferable skills developed through writing, including clear thinking, persuasive communication and editing, are valued in almost every professional sector. Further study at postgraduate level in creative writing, journalism or publishing is also a well-trodden path.