Swansea University

What you'll study

This programme interweaves literary study, language investigation and hands-on creative writing. Core study areas typically include literary periods and genres (such as medieval and early modern literature, nineteenth-century fiction, twentieth- and twenty-first-century literature), language and linguistics (syntax, phonology, sociolinguistics), and creative-writing practice (fiction, poetry, scriptwriting and creative non-fiction).

Teaching combines lectures, seminars, workshops and one-to-one tutorials. Workshops and portfolio modules support the development of original work, while modules in critical theory, book history and literary contexts train close reading and analytical skills. Many students complete a substantial final-year dissertation or creative portfolio with an accompanying critical commentary.

• Creative-writing workshops (short fiction, long-form fiction, poetry, drama and scriptwriting)
• Periods and genres in literature (Romanticism, Victorian fiction, modernism, contemporary writing)
• Language modules (introduction to linguistics, sociolinguistics, discourse analysis)
• Theory and criticism (literary theory, gender and sexuality studies, postcolonial studies)
• Research skills and final-year dissertation or creative portfolio
• Optional modules in digital storytelling, publishing studies or film and adaptation

Students often have opportunities to take work placements, engage with local cultural organisations such as the Dylan Thomas Centre, and attend readings and masterclasses with visiting writers.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school record in English or related subjects. Typical entry routes include A-levels, the International Baccalaureate, or recognised equivalent qualifications. Admissions tutors look for evidence of literary analysis and clear written expression; submission of a short writing sample or personal statement that demonstrates engagement with literature and creative practice is often recommended.

Mature applicants and those with vocational or non-traditional backgrounds are welcome; relevant work experience, portfolios or other evidence of ability will be considered. International applicants must meet Swansea University’s standard English language requirement through an accepted qualification such as IELTS or equivalent.

Career prospects

Graduates leave equipped with strong communication, critical thinking and creative skills valued across many sectors. Common career paths include:

• Publishing and editorial roles (assistant editor, commissioning, editorial production)
• Writing and content creation (freelance writing, copywriting, digital content, scriptwriting)
• Journalism and media production
• Public relations, marketing and communications
• Secondary teaching (typically following completion of a postgraduate teaching qualification such as a PGCE)
• Further study and research (MA in creative writing or literature, MPhil/PhD)

Many graduates combine creative practice with portfolio careers, freelancing, or work in the cultural and arts sectors. The course’s emphasis on workshop practice and portfolio development is particularly useful for those pursuing creative careers.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea offers a supportive, research-informed School of Arts and Humanities with an active community of scholars and practising writers. The university’s location on the coast provides a stimulating environment for creativity, and students benefit from close contact with staff, small-group teaching and regular visiting-writer events.

Resources include access to the university library’s special collections, opportunities to engage with local cultural institutions such as the Dylan Thomas Centre, and extracurricular writing groups and literary events. The programme’s combination of language, literature and creative practice prepares students for a broad range of careers while fostering original literary production.