English Literature

You’ll study a range of texts, including classic literary forms such as the novel, poetry, and plays, but also theatrical performances, films, essays, pamphlets, reviews and works of critical and cultural theory, developing your ability to read and respond critically.

Studying literature - by its nature a multi-disciplinary subject - will develop your understanding of history, politics, philosophy, religion, psychology and many other subjects, as well as your understanding of the written works that have shaped our world.

Throughout the degree, you’ll have opportunities to explore topics from other creative subjects too, including writing, film and media.

Our English Literature degree will help you develop many transferable skills valued by employers from all industries, including literacy, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and working both independently and collaboratively.

Our English courses ranked 12th in the UK in the Guardian University Guide 2025.

Join a course ranked 3rd in the UK for “organisation and management”, with 92% for “Assessment and feedback” and 90% for “Academic support” in the National Student Survey 2024.

Our BA (Hons) English Literature will equip you with many skills that are transferrable to a wide range of graduate occupations. These include research and communication, which lend themselves to careers close to the study of literature and writing such as journalism and teaching, while the course’s emphasis on critical thinking and independent learning will transfer to professions including (but not limited to) business, law, consultancy, administration, librarianship, publishing and arts management.

You’ll also develop a range of intellectual, research-based and practical skills that will give you the vital combination of flexible thinking and transferable expertise required for the 21st century workplace.

Throughout the course, you’ll receive reflexive peer and tutor support with our Personal Development Tutoring (PDT) programme, while your core modules at every level will include built-in Employability sessions.

Live Briefs in years 1 and 2, and on the optional level 6 module Research Communication, will give you opportunities to devise solutions for real-world industry professionals, at once giving you both work experience and potential connections for your future career.

You might also decide to further develop your specialisms or start an exciting career in research with our Masters degrees in English Literature or Creative Writing - take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship to get 20% off your fees.

Employability and personal career development

Informed by employers, our courses support an integrated approach to employability. You’ll have opportunities to develop the skills and abilities they are looking for and gain a deeper understanding of how your academic learning relates to the world of work through Live Briefs and Ruskin Modules.

To amplify your career ambition, you will need to actively dedicate time outside of your studies, whether you choose to explore placements, internships or volunteering. Or you could make a social impact by collaborating with our partner organisations through our volunteer scheme Students at the Heart of Knowledge Exchange (SHoKE). These all give you an edge, providing you with experience that you will be able to evidence on your CV and talk about in interviews.

Our Employability and Careers Service offers a range of expert advice and support to build your unique professional profile, including tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, and help to complete job applications. You’ll have 24/7 access to the Careers Centre, our comprehensive online digital resource, which empowers you to start building a Personal Career Development Plan from the very start. Design your future at ARU.