Skip to content / Skip to navigation

MA TESOL and Creative Writing

Introduction

The MA TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and Creative Writing is part of a suite of Masters courses hosted by the Department of English, Linguistics and Cultural Studies and is based in the University of Westminster’s flagship building at 309 Regent Street. The course provides a unique combination of theoretical academic study, robust practical application, and skills development in English language teaching, with a particular focus on the use of creative writing in the classroom as a significant part of the teacher’s portfolio of skills.

Course Content

The MA consists of five Core modules (of which the Dissertation is one) and one optional creative writing module, and is offered both full and part-time. Full-time students study 180 credits in the academic year, whilst part-time students will normally complete 180 credits in two academic years.

Core Modules

  • Creative Practice
  • Current Developments in Language Teaching
  • Dissertation
  • Language and Learning: Description and Analysis
  • Using Literature in English Language Teaching

Option Modules

  • Conflict and the City (Writing Drama)
  • Language and the Imagination (Poetic Writing)
  • Tales of the City (Prose Writing)

Teaching and assessment

Teaching methods include weekly two hour lectures, tutorials, seminars, practical sessions and workshops, together with independent student directed study. The Core dissertation module consists of preliminary workshops focused on relevant research skills followed by individual tutorials with your supervisor.

Assessment methods include coursework in the form of essays, reports, oral presentations and creative writing portfolios, as well as the final 12-15,000 word dissertation. There are no formal examinations.

Entry requirements

You will normally be required to have a good first degree or equivalent. Where English is not your first language, proof of competence will be required. This will normally take the form of an IELTS score of 6.5 overall and 7.0 in writing, or equivalent.

Applications from mature candidates with demonstrable relevant work experience and relevant professional qualifications (eg CELTA, DELTA) are welcomed. In these cases, you may be required to undertake a written entrance test in the form of a short 1,500 word essay and may also be required to assemble a work experience portfolio (consisting of testimonials, job descriptions etc).

Associated careers

The MA TESOL and Creative Writing is intended to move you to a new level in your career as a teacher or writer by developing both your skills as a sophisticated critical practitioner and your knowledge base of pedagogy, the English language and its use in verbal art. You will receive the training and preparation to make significant contributions in your professional context as an instructor, manager, or researcher.

Related courses

Additional information

For course specific enquiries please contact the Course Leader: Michelle Laufer lauferm@westminster.ac.uk, +44 (0)207 911 5000 ext 2074

Apply for this course

Applications should be made via UKPASS