English at Birmingham City University is a subject that encompasses the study of literature, language, drama and creative writing. Ours is a community where each individual is empowered to shape their learning, research and practice in creative, innovative and thought-provoking ways. We are ambitious in our creative and critical practice, in challenging convention and in developing an inclusive curriculum that reflects the distinctiveness of every student.If you enjoy all aspects of English study and want maximum flexibility to shape your degree and develop your own areas of interest and expertise, this course is ideal for you. In your first year you’ll gain a strong grounding in all areas of English study and then start to use this knowledge to build a degree which most suits your emerging talents.Along the way you’ll benefit from being a part of a vibrant community of staff and students who understand the impact that English has made and continues to have on regional, national and global cultures. Our teaching is student-focused and research-led, and learning takes place in a friendly and supportive environment.You will be taught by expert researchers and practitioners who foster a community of experimentation, innovation and inclusion which will allow you to flourish and grow. Not only will this degree equip you with a strong subject knowledge, but it will also allow you to develop key transferable skills which are highly prized by a range of employers.**English and Creative Writing pathway**To be an effective writer you need to be an effective reader. This course combines the study of literature, enabling you to think critically about the work of published authors, poets and playwrights, with the development of your own writing craft.In the early stages of your course you will have the opportunity to work creatively across a range of genres including poetry, prose fiction and drama. You will gain a thorough grounding in the craft of writing, focusing on elements such as setting, structure, dialogue, character formation and poetic form and technique.Alongside the development of your creative writing practice you will study modules in English, gaining vital skills in research, critical analysis and argument.

School of English