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MA in English Creative Writing at Alliance University
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is English (Creative Writing) at Alliance University Bengaluru?
This Creative Writing specialization program at Alliance University focuses on nurturing narrative skills across various forms, blending theoretical foundations with practical application. It addresses the growing demand in India for skilled content creators, screenwriters, and literary professionals, distinguishing itself by offering modules in media writing and stagecraft, crucial for the evolving Indian entertainment and publishing landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring writers, journalists, media professionals, and educators seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of creative expression. It caters to fresh graduates eager to enter the dynamic Indian media and literary industries, as well as working professionals looking to pivot into writing-centric roles or enhance their storytelling capabilities. A bachelor''''s degree in any discipline is the primary prerequisite.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as content writers, scriptwriters for film and television, editors, literary critics, and publishing professionals. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in burgeoning Indian OTT platforms, digital media agencies, and traditional publishing houses, aligning with the country''''s vibrant creative economy.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immerse in Diverse Literary Forms- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with the foundational literary theories, critical analyses, and varied forms of Indian, European, and American literature. This builds a strong base for understanding storytelling techniques and cultural contexts.
Tools & Resources
University library, JSTOR, Project Gutenberg, Literary criticism journals
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and analytical skills essential for any writing or editing role, enabling informed creative choices.
Develop a Consistent Writing Routine- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly practice different creative writing exercises introduced in Introduction to Creative Writing and Writing for Media. Dedicate specific time daily or weekly to free writing, journaling, and short story drafting.
Tools & Resources
Online writing prompts (e.g., r/writingprompts), Grammarly, Scrivener (trial), Google Docs
Career Connection
Cultivates discipline, improves prose quality, and helps build a portfolio for future internships and job applications.
Master Academic & Professional Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on enhancing academic reading, writing, and communication skills through assignments and workshops. Pay close attention to grammar, style, and effective presentation techniques relevant to Academic Reading & Writing and Communication Skills.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL, Academic style guides (MLA/Chicago), University writing center, Public speaking clubs
Career Connection
Essential for clear communication in academic research, professional reports, and effective networking in the Indian job market.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Electives & Hands-on Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Strategically choose electives like Fantasy Writing, Literary Translation, or Creative Non-Fiction to develop a niche. Actively participate in the Internship/Project by seeking placements relevant to your chosen specialization.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Industry networking events, LinkedIn, Portfolio website
Career Connection
Builds expertise in a specific creative domain, creates industry contacts, and provides practical experience crucial for securing roles in specialized writing fields.
Engage with Industry Professionals & Workshops- (Semester 3-4)
Attend guest lectures by authors, screenwriters, and publishers, and participate in creative writing workshops organized by the university or local literary festivals (e.g., Bangalore Literature Festival). Seek feedback on your work.
Tools & Resources
Department announcements, Local cultural calendars, Literary societies, Social media groups for writers
Career Connection
Expands professional network, offers insights into industry trends, and refines creative output through expert critique, enhancing employability.
Build a Strong Writing Portfolio- (Semester 3-4)
Curate your best creative and academic writing pieces from courses like Writing for the Stage, Writing for Screen, and your chosen electives. Start compiling these into a professional portfolio.
Tools & Resources
Behance, Personal website/blog, Google Drive, Professional printouts
Career Connection
A compelling portfolio is non-negotiable for creative roles in India, showcasing your versatility and skill to potential employers and clients.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation and Publication Potential- (Semester 4)
Approach the Dissertation as an opportunity for in-depth research and original contribution. Aim to produce a high-quality academic or creative work that has the potential for future publication in journals or as a standalone piece.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, University research support, Thesis writing guides, Literary agents/publishers research
Career Connection
A strong dissertation can open doors to further academic pursuits or establish credibility as an author/researcher in the Indian literary scene.
Network for Placements & Freelance Opportunities- (Semester 4 (leading up to graduation))
Actively engage with alumni networks, attend job fairs, and leverage professional platforms to seek placement opportunities in media houses, publishing firms, or content agencies. Explore freelance writing and editing avenues.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni portals, University placement cell, Online freelancing platforms (e.g., Upwork, Fiverr - for initial experience)
Career Connection
Directly leads to employment opportunities, building a sustainable career path whether in a corporate setup or as an independent creative professional.
Understand Professional Ethics and Industry Standards- (Semester 4)
Pay close attention to Professional Ethics and apply these principles in all academic and practical work. Research and understand intellectual property rights, copyright laws, and ethical guidelines specific to the Indian media and publishing industries.
Tools & Resources
Industry associations (e.g., Indian Publishers Association), Legal resources on copyright, Ethical guidelines for journalism/content creation
Career Connection
Ensures responsible professional conduct, protects your work, and builds a reputation for integrity, crucial for long-term success in any creative field.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 45% marks (40% for SC/ST) in any discipline from a recognized University.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEMAS 0011 | Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Introduction to research, Types of research, Data collection methods, Analysis techniques, Report writing, Academic ethics |
| AEMAS 0012 | Literary Theory & Criticism I | Core | 3 | Formalism, Structuralism, Post-structuralism, Psychoanalysis, Reader-response theory, Basic critical concepts |
| AEMAS 0013 | Introduction to Creative Writing | Creative Writing Core | 3 | Genres of creative writing, Elements of craft, Narrative voice, Character development, Plot structure, Drafting techniques |
| AEMAS 0014 | Indian Writing in English | Core | 3 | Major authors, Historical context, Thematic concerns, Post-independence literature, Diaspora writing |
| AEMAS 0015 | Drama | Core | 3 | Classical drama, Modern drama, Theatrical conventions, Dramatic techniques, Major playwrights |
| AEMAS 0016 | Academic Reading & Writing | Skill-based Core | 2 | Critical reading strategies, Argumentation and essay structure, Citation styles, Academic language, Summary and paraphrase, Research paper development |
| AEMAS 0017 | Soft Skills & Life Skills | Skill-based Core | 2 | Communication skills, Teamwork and collaboration, Problem-solving, Time management, Interpersonal skills, Professional etiquette |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEMAS 0021 | Literary Theory & Criticism II | Core | 3 | Feminism, Postcolonialism, Queer theory, Eco-criticism, Cultural studies, Contemporary theories |
| AEMAS 0022 | European & American Literature | Core | 3 | Renaissance literature, Romanticism, Modernism, Postmodernism, Major movements, Key authors |
| AEMAS 0023 | Writing for Media | Creative Writing Core | 3 | Journalism basics, News reporting, Feature writing, Broadcast writing, Digital media content, Ethical considerations |
| AEMAS 0024 | Shakespeare | Core | 3 | Major tragedies, Comedies, Historical plays, Sonnets, Language and style, Critical interpretations |
| AEMAS 0025 | Postcolonial Studies | Core | 3 | Colonial discourse, Decolonization narratives, Identity and representation, Subaltern studies, Postcolonial theory, Diasporic experiences |
| AEMAS 0026 | Content Writing & Editing | Skill-based Core | 2 | Web content creation, Blog posts and articles, SEO writing fundamentals, Proofreading techniques, Grammar and style guides, Content strategy |
| AEMAS 0027 | Communication Skills | Skill-based Core | 2 | Verbal communication, Non-verbal cues, Public speaking, Presentation skills, Active listening, Conflict resolution |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEMAS 0031 | Modern Critical Approaches | Core | 3 | Marxism and literature, New Historicism, Deconstruction, Postmodernism, Ecocriticism, Cultural Materialism |
| AEMAS 0032 | Fiction | Core | 3 | Novel and short story, Narrative techniques, Characterization, Setting and atmosphere, Plot development, Genres of fiction |
| AEMAS 0033 | Writing for the Stage | Creative Writing Core | 3 | Playwriting fundamentals, Dialogue writing, Dramatic structure, Character arcs, Theatrical conventions, Script formatting |
| AEMAS 0034 | Elective I (Poetry / Children''''s Literature) | Elective | 3 | Forms of poetry, Imagery and metaphor, Children''''s literature genres, Themes in children''''s literature, Age appropriateness |
| AEMAS 0035 | Elective II (Fantasy Writing / Literary Translation) | Elective | 3 | World-building in fantasy, Magic systems, Theories of translation, Cultural nuances in translation, Linguistic challenges |
| AEMAS 0036 | Internship / Project | Core | 2 | Practical experience, Research project, Report writing, Industry exposure, Skill application, Professional development |
| AEMAS 0037 | Technical Communication | Skill-based Core | 2 | Technical reports, Manuals and guides, Proposals and presentations, Audience analysis, Clarity and conciseness, Visual communication |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEMAS 0041 | Critical Reading & Textual Analysis | Core | 3 | Close reading strategies, Literary devices analysis, Rhetorical strategies, Interpretative skills, Argumentative analysis, Contextual understanding |
| AEMAS 0042 | Poetry | Core | 3 | Poetic forms and structures, Prosody and rhythm, Sound devices, Symbolism and allusion, Poetic analysis, Major poets |
| AEMAS 0043 | Writing for Screen | Creative Writing Core | 3 | Screenplay structure, Character development for screen, Dialogue writing, Visual storytelling, Scene writing, Adaptation techniques |
| AEMAS 0044 | Elective III (Creative Non-Fiction / World Literatures) | Elective | 3 | Memoir and personal essay, Literary journalism, Global literary movements, Non-western literatures, Comparative literature |
| AEMAS 0045 | Elective IV (Publishing & Editing / Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)) | Elective | 3 | Publishing industry overview, Manuscript assessment, Copyediting and proofreading, Language acquisition theories, ESL teaching methodologies |
| AEMAS 0046 | Dissertation | Core | 6 | Independent research design, Thesis writing, Literature review, Methodology application, Data analysis and interpretation, Academic presentation |
| AEMAS 0047 | Professional Ethics | Value-added Core | 2 | Ethical principles in profession, Professional conduct, Integrity and values, Social responsibility, Workplace dilemmas, Ethical decision-making |
