English Literature BA
Study of literature across periods, genres, and cultures, exploring how writers use language to express ideas, challenge societies, and shape our understanding of the world.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Enjoy reading and analysing texts
Like writing essays
Are interested in literature and culture
Want strong communication skills
Are analytical
Popular Career Fields
Education
Publishing & Media
Journalism & Publishing
Research & Academia
Your Personality Might Be:
Love of reading
Publishing & Media
Articulate writer
Intellectually curious
What is it?
What is a degree in English Literature BA?
An English Literature degree examines written works ranging from classic texts to contemporary fiction, poetry, drama, and literary theory.
You’ll explore how literature reflects and shapes human experience, examining themes such as identity, power, gender, history, emotions, and storytelling.
The degree involves close reading, critical analysis, and independent interpretation. You will study major authors, literary movements, and cultural contexts, developing the ability to understand complex texts and produce sophisticated arguments. English Literature is both creative and analytical, blending imagination with intellectual exploration.
Why Study English Literature?
If you love reading, stories, ideas, and critical thinking, this degree offers a rich and rewarding academic experience.
It helps you explore:
How language shapes meaning and emotion
How literature reflects and challenges social and cultural issues
How authors influence readers and societies
How storytelling changes across time and forms
The degree develops versatile skills valued in education, media, writing, publishing, public service, and creative industries.
Course Summary
Study of literature across periods, genres, and cultures, exploring how writers use language to express ideas, challenge societies, and shape our understanding of the world.
What you'll study
An English Literature degree can often cover courses such as:
Literary history from medieval to contemporary writing
Poetry, drama, prose, and literary genres
Critical theory, analysis, and close reading
Literature in cultural, social, and historical contexts
Major authors, movements, and global literatures
Independent research, interpretation, and extended writing
Skills You'll Gain
An English Literature degree builds strong academic and analytical including:
Critical analysis – enabling you to interpret complex texts and evaluate multiple perspectives.
Advanced communication – helping you express ideas clearly, persuasively, and creatively.
Research and independent study – allowing you to investigate topics deeply and construct evidence-based arguments.
Creative thinking – developing imaginative approaches to literature, writing, and cultural interpretation.
Cultural and historical awareness – helping you understand texts within broader social and global contexts.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
English Literature graduates commonly work in:
Publishing, editing, and literary agencies
Journalism, media, and communications
Education and teaching
Marketing, PR, and content writing
Arts, culture, and heritage sectors
Civil service, policy, and public engagement
Creative industries, writing, and digital media
Work Experiences & Placements
Opportunities may include:
Publishing houses or literary agencies
Libraries, archives, or heritage organisations
Schools and educational outreach
Media, journalism, and communications roles
Arts, theatre, or cultural organisations
Marketing, editing, or content creation work
Some programmes offer placement modules or industry partnerships.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent including English Literature or English Language & Literature. Some universities may accept English Language alone but English Literature is strongly preferred.
Personal Statement Tips
Show passion for reading, storytelling, and literary ideas.
Mention authors, genres, or periods that influenced you.
Reflect on themes or issues you enjoy exploring in literature.
Highlight communication, creativity, curiosity, and analytical skill.
What to do Next
Compare modules such as contemporary fiction, Shakespeare, world literature, or gothic writing.
Explore joint honours options if you want to combine subjects.
Attend open days or sample English Literature lectures.
Read widely across genres and periods to broaden your perspective.
Wider Reading
How to Read Literature – Terry Eagleton
A witty and insightful guide to understanding how literature works and how to analyse it.The Norton Anthology of English Literature
A comprehensive collection of major authors and texts across historical periods.Why Read the Classics? – Italo Calvino
A thoughtful exploration of what makes great literature timeless and meaningful.Jane Eyre – Charlotte Brontë
A classic novel offering rich material for discussions of character, identity, and literary form.