The BA Creative Writing and Film program at the University of Reading offers a dynamic fusion of storytelling and cinematic arts, ideal for students passionate about crafting compelling narratives across diverse mediums. This interdisciplinary degree combines rigorous creative writing practice with in-depth film studies, preparing graduates for a range of careers in the creative industries.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1:
In your first year, you'll lay the foundation for both creative writing and film studies. Modules such as "Introduction to Creative Writing" and "Introduction to Drama" will immerse you in the art of storytelling, while "Film Forms and Cultures" introduces you to the critical analysis of film as a cultural form. This year emphasizes developing your creative voice and analytical skills through a combination of lectures, seminars, and practical exercises.
Year 2:
Building on your foundational knowledge, the second year delves deeper into specialized areas. "Creative Writing: Poetry" and "Creative Writing: The Short Story" allow you to refine your writing techniques, while "Radical Forms in Theatre and Performance" challenges you to explore avant-garde and experimental approaches in both writing and performance. This year encourages critical thinking and creative risk-taking, preparing you for more complex projects in your final year.
Year 3:
The final year focuses on independent research and professional development. You will undertake a substantial project, choosing between a 40-credit dissertation or a Creative Research Project, allowing you to specialize in an area of personal interest. Additionally, modules like "Thinking Translation: History and Theory" and "Modern American Culture and Counterculture" provide opportunities to engage with contemporary issues and diverse cultural perspectives, enhancing your creative and critical abilities.
Focus Areas: Creative Writing, Film Studies, Theatre, Performance, Cultural Analysis
Learning Outcomes: Developed creative writing skills across genres, critical understanding of film and theatre, ability to analyze and interpret cultural texts, proficiency in independent research and project management, enhanced communication and presentation skills.
Professional Alignment: The program aligns with QAA Subject Benchmarking Groups in Creative Writing and Communication, Media, Film, and Cultural Studies, ensuring a curriculum that meets industry standards and academic rigor.
Reputation: The University of Reading is renowned for its strong emphasis on employability, with graduates from the Creative Writing and Film program successfully entering careers in film production, publishing, journalism, and the arts. The university's commitment to providing opportunities for placements and study abroad further enhances the employability of its graduates.
If you're eager to explore the intersection of storytelling and visual media, this program offers a comprehensive and enriching pathway to a creative career.
The BA Creative Writing and Film at the University of Reading offers an exciting blend of storytelling and cinematic exploration. This program is designed to give you the creative and technical skills you need to thrive in the creative industries. Through hands-on workshops, collaborations with industry professionals, and access to cutting-edge facilities, you'll gain real-world experience that connects theory with practice.
As you move through the program, you'll have access to a wide range of experiential learning opportunities that strengthen both your understanding and your skills:
Film Production Bootcamps: Take part in intensive short courses that introduce you to the techniques and working practices of film production.
Arri Alexa Camera Training: Learn to use industry-standard equipment, such as the Arri Alexa camera, so you’ll be confident with the tools used in professional film settings.
Real-Life Shoot Simulations: Experience full-scale simulations of actual film shoots, giving you practical, hands-on experience in a safe, controlled environment.
Industry Collaborations: Work alongside organizations like Albert Education, FEST, Rabble Theatre, Reading Rep Theatre, Climate Change Theatre Action, and South St Theatre, gaining insight into different areas of the creative industry.
Minghella Studios Access: Make use of the £11 million Minghella Studios, including a multi-camera film and TV studio, digital cinema facilities, and a dedicated recording and mixing suite, to develop and refine your filmmaking skills.
Collaborative Projects: Take part in group projects that encourage teamwork and allow you to apply both your creative writing and film skills in practical scenarios.
Internship Opportunities: Explore internships that give you valuable industry experience and help build connections, improving your employability after graduation.
Field Trips and Masterclasses: Attend field trips and masterclasses to gain insights from professionals and see how your skills apply in real-world contexts.
These opportunities are designed to give you a thorough understanding of both creative writing and film, preparing you to launch a successful career in the creative industries.
Graduates of the BA Creative Writing and Film program from the University of Reading are well-prepared to enter dynamic careers in both creative and commercial sectors. With a strong foundation in storytelling, media production, and critical analysis, alumni often pursue roles such as:
Film Director
Screenwriter
Film Critic
Arts Administrator
These positions leverage the program's emphasis on professional skills, cultural literacy, and creative expression.
University Support & Industry Connections:
Career Services: The University offers tailored career advice, CV workshops, and interview preparation to help students transition from academia to the professional world.
Employment Statistics: 96% of English Literature graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of graduation, reflecting the program's strong employability outcomes.
Industry Partnerships: Through collaborations with organizations like Screen Berkshire, Albert Education, and Arri Certified Film School, students gain hands-on experience and networking opportunities in the film industry.
Accreditation: The program holds long-term academic accreditation, ensuring a recognized and respected qualification.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are equipped with transferable skills in communication, research, and writing, preparing them for diverse career paths in the creative industries.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA Creative Writing and Film, students have the opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in areas such as Film Studies, Creative Writing, or Media Production. The program's strong academic foundation and industry connections provide a solid platform for advanced study and specialization.
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