University of Leicester

What you'll study

The programme is a three-year undergraduate degree that combines core modules in English literature with practical creative writing units. In the first year you build a foundation in literary study—covering periods and genres such as poetry, the novel and drama—while beginning creative practice through introductory workshops and short-form writing assignments.

In the second year you deepen both critical and creative skills. Typical modules include studies in modern and contemporary literature, literary theory, and longer creative-writing workshops in fiction and poetry. You can explore genre options such as short fiction, novella forms, dramatic writing and writing for screen, and you begin to develop a sustained creative project.

The final year focuses on advanced study and independent work. You complete a substantial creative portfolio (for example a novella, a linked short-story collection, a poetry portfolio or a screenplay) accompanied by a critical commentary or dissertation that situates your creative work within literary and theoretical contexts. Across all years you will encounter modules on areas such as Shakespeare, nineteenth-century literature, modernism, postcolonial literature, gender and sexuality studies, and language and linguistics, allowing you to tailor the degree to particular interests.

Teaching methods combine seminars, small-group writing workshops, lectures and one-to-one supervision for major projects. Assessment is a mix of coursework, portfolios, presentations and a final-year dissertation/creative project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary-level qualifications equivalent to UK A-levels. The department welcomes students with a range of qualifications, including international diplomas and vocationally related qualifications; mature applicants and those with relevant life or work experience are also considered. A strong command of English is required; applicants whose first language is not English should provide evidence of English-language proficiency.

As part of the application process you may be asked to submit a short creative portfolio (commonly a selection of poems or short fiction totalling a few thousand words) and a personal statement that demonstrates engagement with literature and creative writing. Specific entry guidance and accepted qualifications are available from the university admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates from English with Creative Writing go into a wide range of careers. Typical destinations include publishing and editorial work, journalism, digital content and copywriting, marketing and public relations, and roles in the cultural and creative industries such as script development, theatre and arts management. Many graduates also progress to teacher training (PGCE) or postgraduate study in literature, creative writing, or related fields.

The degree fosters transferable skills valued by employers—critical analysis, clear written communication, creative problem-solving and project management—which are useful in law, civil service, charity and business roles. The department supports employability through careers sessions, placement opportunities and links with local cultural organisations.

Why study at University of Leicester

Leicester’s School of Arts, Humanities and Law provides a supportive environment for both critical and creative study. You will benefit from experienced academic staff who teach across literary periods and creative genres and from small-group workshops that emphasise peer feedback and constructive editing.

The university offers strong library collections, digital resources and writing-centre support to help you develop craft and academic skills. Students can take part in campus and city literary events, student-run magazines and performance opportunities, and can access career and placement services that connect study with professional experience. Studying in Leicester also places you in a city with a lively cultural scene and affordable living costs, making it well suited to students seeking a practical, career-aware degree in English and creative writing.