English Literature A-Level

The English Literature A-Level is an essay-based qualification which allows you to dive in three genres; drama, prose and poetry.

Texts are from a range of different periods and cultures allowing students to develop their literature analysis and evaluative skills. The skills gained from this A-Level are highly desirable at universities, particularly in the humanities. 

Students typically study a minimum of 8 key pre-1900 and post-1900 texts, with 2 from each genre of drama, prose and poetry, however, wider reading is strongly encouraged to aid understanding. Different exam boards will have different specifications. 

Format

Independent reading and essay-based subject. 

Key Skills Acquired

Analysis, problem solving, Critical thinking, reading, writing, literary analysis, presenting and communicating coherent arguments

Complimentary A-Levels

History, Classics, Politics, Modern Languages, Sociology, Psychology, Media Studies, Drama and Theatre Studies, Law

Typical Assessment

Open-book and closed-book exams and coursework. 

Exam Boards

England, Wales and Northern Ireland Exam Boards: AQA, CCEA, OCR, Pearson Edexcel (UK)

Scottish Exam Board (for Highers): SQA

International Exam Boards: Cambridge International Education (CIE), Pearson Edexcel (International)

Career Options

Publishing, Editing, Marketing, PR, Communications, Journalism, Academia, Teaching, Politics, Lawyer

UK Universities

University of Sussex, University of Birmingham, University of Exeter, Goldsmiths University of London, University of Liverpool, University of Leicester, University of St Andrews, University of Leeds, University of Warwick, University of Sheffield, University of Nottingham, University of Cambridge, University of Glasgow, University of Reading, University of Kent, University of East Anglia, University of Oxford, University of York, University College London (UCL), Queen Mary University of London, Lancaster University, Royal Holloway University of London, University of Southampton, University of Manchester, University of Edinburgh, University of Aberdeen, University of Surrey, University of Bristol, Durham University, King’s College London