Course Overview
Attendance
* Price per academic year
Course summary
Our degree courses with Foundation year offer the opportunity to prepare you for advanced study before you progress onto a full honours degree at the University of Westminster.
Whether you do not feel ready for degree-level study, don't have the right qualifications, want to change your subject specialism or return to study after an absence from education, we aim to encourage a broad range of students to undertake our Foundation year in order to progress onto their full honours degree with us.
The Foundation year is designed to give you the opportunity to explore new ideas, opening up new perspectives on the key debates within your chosen field. Core modules accelerate your academic and professional development , bringing together like-minded students to think about the 'big ideas' within your discipline.
You'll also take modules from areas closely related to your chosen field, giving you the chance to develop a cross-disciplinary perspective on your course. On successful completion of the Foundation year, you will be able to move on to study for the Creative Writing and English BA Honours degree over a further three years study.
This course allows you to develop your knowledge and understanding of key periods, themes, styles and techniques in both Creative Writing and English studies, and to utilise your learning in both creative and critical forms.
You’ll explore current priorities and debates in both subject areas, including developments in artificial intelligence, and learn via innovative and imaginative teaching methods.
Our course provides the flexibility to tailor your studies to suit your interests. You can choose to specialise in modules in English Literature or English Language to complement your creative writing studies, where you’ll develop writing skills in a variety of genres from the novel, the short story and poetry, to drama and non-fiction.
Our teaching is enhanced by our central London location, with many of our modules including field trips to museums, galleries, libraries and the theatre. Our location also provides close connections to employers across a wide range of industries, and you can even take a semester- or year-long work placement - to gain professional experience and build your networks.
You can also add an international element to your studies through an optional year abroad studying at a partner institution or embarking on an international placement working or volunteering overseas. For a shorter international experience, we offer flexible opportunities in the form of fully-funded field trips. Past field trips have included places as varied as Morocco, Marseille and Montreal.
This course will prepare you for success in diverse intercultural and professional environments, where your international or professional experience, combined with advanced linguistic and cultural competence, will set you apart and empower you to thrive in your chosen field.
Top reasons to study with us
- Fantastic location for the creative industries – London has unrivalled access to publishing houses, film production companies, theatre and poetry networks, and other literary opportunities
- Writer-led workshops – all of our creative writing tutors are practising poets, dramatists, novelists or non-fiction writers
- Gain valuable industry contacts – you’ll have the opportunity to make writing contacts through our talented creative writing tutors, our expert guest speakers and our industry links
- Get experience before graduating – you’ll have the option to do a work placement as part of this course
- Opportunities to gain international experience – our students enjoy regular field trips and amazing opportunities to travel, work and study abroad
- Personalised support - you’ll get individually focused academic support and career planning through our tutorials · Subject-leading researchers – our English studies staff are leading experts in their fields, producing internationally recognised research that they bring straight back into the classroom
Course structure
The following subjects are indicative of what you will study on this course.
Subjects of study include:
- Critical Thinking for Academic and Professional Development
- History, Memory and Belonging
- Imagining Global Society and Politics
- Intercultural Communication
- Introduction to Academic Practice
- Reading Identities
Credit Level 3
Subjects of study include:
- Genre, Style and Form
- Introducing English Language
- Keywords for Literary Studies
- Keywords for Literary Studies
- Poetry and Politics
- Reflective Writing 1
- Working with Texts 1
- Writing the City
Credit Level 4
Subjects of study include:
- Forms of Writing
- Language and Literary Style
- Making Memory: Culture, History and Representation
- Reflective Writing 2
- Romanticisms
- Screenwriting
- The Victorian World
- Working with Texts 2
Credit Level 5
Between Years 2 and 3 you’ll have the option to undertake either a study or work placement at a partner institution abroad. The optional year abroad helps you develop cultural and intercultural awareness of the country you visit and gives you an opportunity to gain experience in a different setting.
Find out more about the costs involved in taking a study abroad or placement year.
Subjects of study include:
- English Literature Dissertation
- Individual Writing Project
- Reading the Present
- Special Topic: Genres in Writing
- Subjects in Applied Linguistics
- Subjects in Theoretical Linguistics
- The Modernist World
- Work Placement for Humanities
- Writing Life
Credit Level 6
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)
Live chat with us
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)
Hear from our students
Open days
Join us at an open day online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
Can't attend? See more open events
Careers
On our course, there is a strong focus on future career opportunities, with creative writing being taught by writers who have expertise in the particular genres being studied.
With a growing global network of 3,000 employers, our Careers and Employability Service is here to support you to achieve your full potential.
Guest speakers
Guest novelists, poets, filmmakers, editors and agents join us from across the industry to provide valuable careers advice.
Connect with industry
Forge early connections with industry in London, one of the world's most creative media hubs.
Employers around the world
The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.
Industry Links
We have excellent links with business, including:
- The Writers’ Guild
- The Small Publisher Fair
- The Tate
- The V&A
We invite guest speakers to join us from across the industry to provide valuable careers advice to students. Previous guest speakers have included playwrights, poets and novelists including:
- Eley Williams
- Goolnoosh Nour
- Gwendoline Riley
- Inua Ellams
- Toby Litt
Work Experience
You’ll have the option to complete a work placement as part of this course. Our students gain valuable skills and knowledge through this experience, and previous destinations include:
- Amazon
- Arts Catalyst
- English Pen
- The Red Cross
Job roles
This course will prepare you for roles and sectors such as:
- Advertising
- Copywriter
- Digital content producer
- Publishing assistant
- PR
- Professional writer
- Script editor for TV/film production companies
- Teacher
Graduate employment
Graduates from our creative writing degrees have found employment at organisations including:
- BBC
- British Council
- Red Apple Creative
- The V&A
- Springer Publishing
- Theatre Delicatessen
- McKinsey and Company
- The Foreign Office
International Opportunities
Many of our courses offer international study and work experiences, and the University provides other global opportunities that all students can apply for – so whatever you're studying, you'll have the chance to go abroad.
Opportunities could include:
- Taking part in semester or year-long exchanges at institutions around the world
- Attending an international summer school or field trip
- Developing your CV through volunteering or work placements abroad
International experience broadens horizons, boosts self-confidence, and improves global understanding, alongside being fantastic for your career.
Find out more about our international opportunities, including funding options and where you can go.
Course Leader
Matthew Morrison
Reader
Matt leads BA degrees in Creative Writing and English Literature, Creative and Professional Writing, and Creative Writing and English Language. He is a playwright, whose work has been produced at theatres including the Riverside Studios, the Finborough, the Arcola, Wilton’s Music Hall, HighTide, the Gate, and the Old Vic Tunnels.
He has written short stories and radio comedy for the BBC and has worked in a number of theatres as a literary manager and literary associate. He has a First Class degree from the University of York and a PhD in Theatre History. His academic publications include introductions to philosophy and creative writing.
I’ve never met a student who doesn’t have a compelling story to tell. At Westminster, every voice is important.
Course Team
In addition to the core teaching team at the University, we are pleased to invite a wide range of practising writers to teach modules and deliver guest workshops.
- Dr Hannah Copley - Senior Lecturer
- Dr Michael Nath - Senior Lecturer
- Dr Monica Germana - Reader
- Dr Sylvia Shaw - Senior Lecturer in English Language and Linguistics
- Dr Lucy Bond - Head of the School of Humanities
- Professor Alexandra Warwick - Professor
- Dr John Baker - Senior Lecturer
- Dr Simon Avery - Reader in Nineteenth-Century Literature and Culture
- Dr Sean Sutherland - Senior Lecturer in English Language and Linguistics
- Dr Petros Karatsareas - Reader
- Professor Louise Sylvester - Professor of English Language
- Dr Andrew Caink - Principal Lecturer in English Language and Linguistics
- Dr Kate M. Graham - Senior Lecturer in English Literature (Theatre)
- Dr Gwilym Jones - Lecturer in English
Why study this course?
Fantastic central London location
Based in our Regent Campus in central London, you’ll enjoy the benefits of studying in a major global city.
Expert-led workshops
All of our creative writing tutors are practising poets, dramatists or novelists.
Gain valuable industry contacts
You’ll have the opportunity to make writing contacts through our talented creative writing tutors, our expert guest speakers and our industry links.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels – BCC (104 UCAS Tariff points)
- T levels – 104 UCAS Tariff points
- International Baccalaureate – 104 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis
- BTEC Extended Diploma – DMM
- BTEC Diploma – D*D
- Access – 104 UCAS Tariff points from the Access course
In addition to one of the above, you should have:
- GCSE English Language grade 4/C – IB grade 4 Higher level, GCSE Maths grade 4/C – IB grade 4
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.
A portfolio of creative writing may be required in addition to these academic qualifications.
We also welcome applications from students who are taking a combination of qualifications listed above. For further information, please contact Course Enquiries.
View more information about our entry requirements and the application process
Direct (Advanced) Entry or Transfer
Direct entry to Year 2 may be available for some of our programmes. You will need to have already successfully completed part of your undergraduate course elsewhere with the relevant number of credits of a comparable degree. Please note that admission to Year 3 is rarely granted. Applications for direct entry are made through UCAS, selecting the appropriate 'point of entry' whilst making your application, e.g. for second-year entry, you would choose a point of entry 2.
More information
International Baccalaureate
104 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis. You can refer to the UCAS calculator to determine your point score.
A portfolio of creative writing may be required in addition to these academic qualifications.
Other international qualifications
We accept a wide range of international high school level qualifications. Please see information on country-specific entry requirements.
International Foundation courses
We work in partnership with Kaplan International College London who provide the International Foundation Certificate at their College based in Liverpool Street. These courses are for students who don’t meet our direct entry requirements. Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Westminster. Find out more about the different university preparation courses that are accepted for entry.
English language requirements
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with a score of 5.5 in each component. Please note we accept a wide range of English language qualifications and assessments. Find out more at English language requirements.
If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, then we offer online and on campus pre-sessional English programmes to help develop your English language skills to the required level before you start your course. Find out more about our pre-sessional English programmes.
Direct (Advanced) Entry or Transfer
Direct entry to Year 2 may be available for some of our programmes. You will need to have already successfully completed part of your undergraduate course elsewhere with the relevant number of credits of a comparable degree, or have passed an International Year One programme at a recognised partner institution. We are unable to consider applications from international students who have failed Year 1 or who are not eligible to progress within their current programme of study. Please note that admission to Year 3 is rarely granted. Applications for direct entry are made through UCAS, selecting the appropriate 'point of entry' whilst making your application, e.g. for second-year entry, you would choose a point of entry 2.
More information
- A Levels – BCC (104 UCAS Tariff points)
- T levels – 104 UCAS Tariff points
- International Baccalaureate – 104 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis
- BTEC Extended Diploma – DMM
- BTEC Diploma – D*D
- Access – 104 UCAS Tariff points from the Access course
In addition to one of the above, you should have:
- GCSE English Language grade 4/C – IB grade 4 Higher level, GCSE Maths grade 4/C – IB grade 4
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.
A portfolio of creative writing may be required in addition to these academic qualifications.
We also welcome applications from students who are taking a combination of qualifications listed above. For further information, please contact Course Enquiries.
View more information about our entry requirements and the application process
Direct (Advanced) Entry or Transfer
Direct entry to Year 2 may be available for some of our programmes. You will need to have already successfully completed part of your undergraduate course elsewhere with the relevant number of credits of a comparable degree. Please note that admission to Year 3 is rarely granted. Applications for direct entry are made through UCAS, selecting the appropriate 'point of entry' whilst making your application, e.g. for second-year entry, you would choose a point of entry 2.
More information
International Baccalaureate
104 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis. You can refer to the UCAS calculator to determine your point score.
A portfolio of creative writing may be required in addition to these academic qualifications.
Other international qualifications
We accept a wide range of international high school level qualifications. Please see information on country-specific entry requirements.
International Foundation courses
We work in partnership with Kaplan International College London who provide the International Foundation Certificate at their College based in Liverpool Street. These courses are for students who don’t meet our direct entry requirements. Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Westminster. Find out more about the different university preparation courses that are accepted for entry.
English language requirements
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with a score of 5.5 in each component. Please note we accept a wide range of English language qualifications and assessments. Find out more at English language requirements.
If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, then we offer online and on campus pre-sessional English programmes to help develop your English language skills to the required level before you start your course. Find out more about our pre-sessional English programmes.
Direct (Advanced) Entry or Transfer
Direct entry to Year 2 may be available for some of our programmes. You will need to have already successfully completed part of your undergraduate course elsewhere with the relevant number of credits of a comparable degree, or have passed an International Year One programme at a recognised partner institution. We are unable to consider applications from international students who have failed Year 1 or who are not eligible to progress within their current programme of study. Please note that admission to Year 3 is rarely granted. Applications for direct entry are made through UCAS, selecting the appropriate 'point of entry' whilst making your application, e.g. for second-year entry, you would choose a point of entry 2.
More information
Learn new skills
Learn a new language
From Arabic to Spanish, you can learn a new language alongside your degree with our Polylang programme.
Develop your entrepreneurial skills
Our award-winning Westminster Enterprise Network offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your startup projects.
Gain extra qualifications
We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £5,760 (Price per academic year)
Please note that if you defer your place, the first year’s tuition fees will be those of the academic year in which you enrol, which may be higher than the fee shown for this year.
Fees are subject to UK Government Parliamentary procedure.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Funding
As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.
Find out about undergraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
You should budget between £50–£100 for additional materials at Level 4, £50–£100 at Level 5 and £50–£100 at Level 6.
See also our general policy on what your tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase International tuition fees.
Please note that if you defer your place, the first year’s tuition fees will be those of the academic year in which you enrol, which may be higher than the fee shown for this year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme
If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September 2024 or September 2025 at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a tuition fee reduction which will align your fee more closely to the one for UK students. For more information, see the EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme.
International student funding
Find out about funding for international students.
Additional costs
You should budget between £50–£100 for additional materials at Level 4, £50–£100 at Level 5 and £50–£100 at Level 6.
See also our general policy on what your tuition fees cover.
UK tuition fee: £5,760 (Price per academic year)
Please note that if you defer your place, the first year’s tuition fees will be those of the academic year in which you enrol, which may be higher than the fee shown for this year.
Fees are subject to UK Government Parliamentary procedure.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Funding
As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.
Find out about undergraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
You should budget between £50–£100 for additional materials at Level 4, £50–£100 at Level 5 and £50–£100 at Level 6.
See also our general policy on what your tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase International tuition fees.
Please note that if you defer your place, the first year’s tuition fees will be those of the academic year in which you enrol, which may be higher than the fee shown for this year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme
If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September 2024 or September 2025 at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a tuition fee reduction which will align your fee more closely to the one for UK students. For more information, see the EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme.
International student funding
Find out about funding for international students.
Additional costs
You should budget between £50–£100 for additional materials at Level 4, £50–£100 at Level 5 and £50–£100 at Level 6.
See also our general policy on what your tuition fees cover.
Teaching and Assessment
How you'll be taught
Teaching methods across all our undergraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into three broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Placement: placement hours normally include placement opportunities, but may also include live projects or virtual activity involving employers
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you'll be assessed
Our undergraduate courses include a wide variety of assessments.
Assessments typically fall into two broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, videos, podcasts, lab work, creating artefacts
- Coursework: examples include essays, reports, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support – workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors – support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team – provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities – volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course location
Our Regent Campus is comprised of two sites, situated on and around Regent Street – one of the most famous and vibrant streets in London.
Subjects including Criminology and Sociology, English and Creative Writing, History, Languages, Politics and International Relations and Visual Culture are based at 309 Regent Street, which includes recently refurbished social spaces, gym facilities and our Regent Street Cinema.
For more details, visit our locations page.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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