Here are our top reasons to choose English and Creative Writing at Birmingham City University.
1. Excellent academics
You’ll be taught by staff who are passionate about their subject and leading their field with new research and approaches.Learn about the history and significance of literature, how language shapes the world today, and practice a wide range of writing techniques. Your modules, designed by published writers and world-leading scholars, will help you to develop the high-value research, communication and storytelling skills that will secure your subject knowledge and kick-start your career.
2. Employability
The success of our creative approach is clear from the high rate of graduate-level employment achieved by our students, and from how much our students enjoy their time with us. We know this from our outstanding 2026 National Student Survey results, where we scored 94% for teaching quality, and our Times University Guide (2026) ranking of 4th for student experience and 7th for student satisfaction with teaching.
3. Impact beyond academia
We were one of only three English departments in the UK whose research was rated 100% outstanding in terms of its reach and significance. The work your lecturers do has a tangible impact in the wider world. This is reflected in our courses, where the relevance of English Language, Literature and Creative Writing in the wider world is at the forefront of the modules you'll study.
English and Creative Writing at BCU
Explore our range of English and Creative Writing courses courses
4. 24/7 Library - Curzon Building
Our library is located in the Curzon Building, a £63 million development on our City Centre campus in the vibrant second city that is Birmingham. You will have access to bright and open learning spaces, including a 24/7 library.
5. Work placement and professional development opportunities
We are committed to developing strong links with employers in Birmingham and the West Midlands. Several of our modules have explicit employer and industry engagement, where you’ll work in collaboration with employers and partners over the course of a semester and be encouraged to adopt industry-standard practises to facilitate connections and links independently with external organisations. You can also take a Work Placement module in your second year, where you will be provided with opportunities to develop your professional skills.
6. Earn while you learn
You will have the chance to apply for paid roles at the University, gaining experience in crucial aspects of job applications and valuable feedback on your work.
7. Second city location
BCU is a part of Birmingham’s economic and cultural renaissance. Birmingham is dynamic, multicultural city with an international reputation and friendly population. One of the largest cities in Europe, it offers a heady mix of galleries, music, restaurants and bars.
