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English literature and creative writing

We’re all natural storytellers, and studying English literature and creative writing offers a way into the human imagination and the key to creative expression.

What's on this page?

Studying English literature and creative writing engrosses you in literary masterpieces and builds essential skills that are sought after in the professional world. It encourages critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication, creating storytellers and perceptive interpreters of cultural differences.

The comprehensive understanding of language, narrative structures, and different genres equips graduates for a variety of career paths. Whether looking at roles in publishing, journalism, content creation, marketing, or education, graduates will have the ability to craft compelling narratives and adapt to different communication styles.

Beyond traditional careers, the creative and analytical skills gained prepare you for roles in digital media, advertising, and even entrepreneurship, where the power of persuasive storytelling is essential. 

The impact you could make
  • Be a social commentator, addressing issues such as social justice, inequality, and human rights.
  • Bring fresh perspectives to the world by inspiring innovative solutions and encouraging others to think creatively.
  • Share stories and build connections that contribute to the overall wellbeing of society.
What you could study
  • Literature in theory
  • Modern world literatures
  • Creative thinking
  • Shakespeare
  • American poetry
  • Modes of reading
  • Contemporary fiction

Study options

Options to study in this field include:

Chat to a current English literature and creative writing student

Chat to a current English literature and creative writing student using UniBuddy.

Some conversation starters for you:

  1. Ask which modules they really enjoyed.
  2. Find out how easy it was for them to make friends on their course.
  3. Do they have any tips on your personal statement?
  4. Did they do anything to prep for uni before they went?
  5. Are there books, podcasts or YouTube channels they would recommend?

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  • Eleri

    Swansea University
    English Language and TESOL, BA (Hons)
    I love the idea of teaching English in South Korea. I have spent much time in Seoul and Busan over the past 2 years and would love the opportunity to move more permanently. As an avid history lover, Korea's expansive history fascinates me! I am a massive fan of BTS, and my bias is Jimin! I am learning to speak Korean and will participate in a summer school in Seoul this summer to expand my language knowledge further. In my spare time I enjoy creating content for my Instagram which consists of BTS, lifestyle and travel!

  • Sadiyah

    Coventry University
    English Literature BA (Hons)
    Hi I’m Sadiyah and I am a second year English Literature student with a passion for reading and writing. I am hoping to pursue a career in journalism after my degree while continuing with my hobbies of cooking and theatre as well as hanging out with my friends :)

  • Mand

    University of Lincoln
    Creative Writing - BA (Hons)
    Hello! Enrolling to study a degree in my 50's has been an incredible experience and confidence boost. I have previously worked in Support roles particularly in Palliative Care & Mental Health, so focusing on something for myself has proved to be invaluable. I hope to progress to studying for a MA with a focus on Poetry.

  • Emily

    University of Lincoln
    Creative Writing - BA (Hons)
    Hi! I'm Emily and I'm a second year creative writing student! I'm always happy to help, as I'm not only a Unibuddy Ambassador, but also a Student Ambassador. I really enjoy my course, so any questions about that and you'll be in the right hands. :) I love indie music, art and playing minecraft. I'm glad to be able to help you out! :D

  • Chloe

    University of South Wales
    BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing
    Hi I'm Chloe, a 26 year old student ambassador. When I finish this degree I am hoping to do a postgraduate degree in Film Screenwriting or a PHD in English. I want to be a novel writer and/ or go into the publishing industry. However, I'm still discovering my options. I live in the University Mountain Halls and I love to read any books that interest me such as Percy Jackson, The Hunger Games and more. I love movies such as Ghostbusters, The Conjuring Movies and others that interest me. Anything I can do to help just give me a text. I'm here to help you with whatever questions or queries you have.

  • Bunni

    Staffordshire University
    English, Creative Writing and Philosophy
    My name is Bunni and I’m a Student Ambassador for Staffordshire University here to talk to you about English and life at Staffs. Drop me a message and I’ll get back to you ASAP!

  • David

    Bangor University
    English Language
    Hello! I'm Dave a 33 year old mature student originally from Maidstone in Kent. I previously worked in the corporate world for 10 years and decided to quit my job and follow my dream which is to travel the world and teach English. I am a second year student studying English Language for TEFL. I am passionate about languages though I dont speak any other language fluently I am learning Japanese, Chinese (Mandarin) Spanish, Italian and Korean. I am very happy to answer any questions about life at Bangor, the application process, the English language/Linguistics course and life as a mature student both in applying for university and being a mature student here at Bangor. I look forward to chatting with you :)

  • Dhara

    University of East Anglia UEA
    Literature and Creative Writing
    Hi! I'm Dhara, I’m in my second year at UEA and I study English Literature and Creative Writing, having transferred degrees from Psychology. I’m also a student ambassador, student content creator and student of colour ambassador! I'm interested in all things books and creative writing, in particular, historical fiction and fantasy. I'm also the Vice-President for UEA Taekwondo Club, having been the Publicity Officer and First Year Representative in my first year. Feel free to ask me any questions about my degree, university life, societies/clubs, part time jobs at UEA, advice on starting university and more!
Example module
“I love studying feminist and gothic literature. I have also loved looking into the works of Shakespeare.”
Second year English literature student, Swansea University
Example assignment
“I enjoy getting to write creative pieces for creative writing modules, because even if there's little variety in lecture content and reading, I can write whatever I want.”
Second year creative writing and history student, University of Chichester

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77% of students
studying English literature and creative writing would recommend the subject to others
(UCAS subject guide survey 2023)

Subjects it's useful to have studied first

Some English literature and creative writing courses or apprenticeships will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects. Entry requirements vary, so always check with the provider.
Humanities
History
Geography
Drama

Second year English literature and creative writing student, University of Lincoln

I love the freedom of expression, I love the dual opposition between reading and writing and how closely related they are and how they work in conjunction with one another. I love how you cannot have one with the other; to read is to write and to write is to read.
Hard skills you'll develop
  • Ability to critically analyse and interpret literary texts
  • Close reading skills
  • Development of characters, plot structures and dialogue
  • Analyse arguments and evaluate evidence
Soft skills you'll develop
  • Creativity
  • Critical thinking
  • Written communication
  • Storytelling

Careers: Where it can take you

Find out more about your career prospects from studying English literature and creative writing. The following information is based on a typical author, writer or translator role.
Available jobs
32,773 vacancies in the past year
7.13% growth over next eight years
Average salary
£30,980
Up to £57,162

Career options

Media, publishing and information services

Journalist, newspaper and periodical editors 

Authors, writers and translators 

Web content professionals

Marketing and sales

Advertising account managers

Public relations professionals

Administration and office work

Customer service managers and supervisors

Human resources and industrial relations officers

Business management

Business and related research professionals

Research and development managers

What is a… story consultant?

Story consultants are often the ones weaving magic behind the scenes in TV and film. They collaborate closely with filmmakers and producers, reading scripts and narratives to make them better. Drawing on their knowledge of storytelling techniques and genre dynamics, they enhance plot structure and character development. Whether working on a gripping crime thriller or a heartwarming family drama, they craft compelling stories that resonate with audiences. 
Find your ideal career
Take our careers quiz to find your ideal job matched to your personality type.

Getting in: Entry requirements

Find out more about what you'll need to study English literature and creative writing at university or as an apprenticeship.

Average requirements for undergraduate degrees

Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from English literature and creative writing applicants.

A levels
BBB – CCC
Scottish Highers
AAABB
Vocational
BTEC DDM – MMM
Other Level 3/Level 6 qualifications (e.g. Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma or SQCF Level 6) may be accepted as an alternative

The expert view

Toni Morrison, novelist (1931 – 2019)
If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it.

Other subjects you may be interested in

Considering an apprenticeship?

Applying for an apprenticeship is just like applying for a normal job. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Deadline

    Apprenticeships don't follow the same deadlines as applying to uni, the deadline is down to the employer.

  2. Where to apply

    You apply directly through the employer.

  3. No limits

    You're not restricted to one apprenticeship application; you can do as many as you like.

  4. Apply to university and apprenticeships

    There's nothing stopping you applying to university through UCAS, while also applying for apprenticeship vacancies.

  5. Find out more

    Read our guide to creative and design apprenticeships.
Apprenticeship vacancies
Check out live apprenticeship vacancies.

Explore further

Go deeper into topics around English literature and creative writing with the following:

  1. Watch film adaptations

    If your favourite book has been turned into a film watch it to see how the words and script have been adapted to fit the new medium. 

  2. TED Talks

    A playlist of talks and articles exploring many topics around literature and writing.

  3. Get inspired

    Visit the National Centre for Writing website for useful advice, practical tips, and short writing exercises.

Application advice

Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter for an apprenticeship application, our advice will help you get ahead in your English literature and creative writing journey.
  • Don’t be afraid to shout about your love for literature by sharing specific books, authors, or literary movements that have inspired and influenced you.
  • Highlight any experiences you have in creative writing. Mention workshops, writing groups, or personal projects that showcase your dedication to improving your craft. Share insights into your writing process and the genres or styles you’re drawn to.
  • Share the breadth of your reading habits by mentioning a diverse range of genres, cultures, and time periods.
  • Prove your strong communication skills, both written and verbal. This is crucial for success in both academic writing and creative expression.
  • Have you explored your creativity outside of writing? Maybe you’ve acted in a play or experimented with visual arts.
Personal statement guide
We asked admissions tutors to share their advice for writing a strong and engaging English personal statement. Here's what they told us.

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