English Language and Literature

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English Korean
Foreign:$ 1.9 k / Semester(s) Deadline: Feb 1, 2026
60 place StudyQA ranking:15070 Duration:8 semestrs

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The Department of English Language and Literature at Seoul National University offers a comprehensive and rigorous undergraduate program designed to cultivate proficiency in English language skills, literary analysis, and cultural understanding. The curriculum emphasizes a deep appreciation of classic and contemporary English and American literature, alongside the development of critical thinking, research abilities, and effective communication skills. Students enrolled in this program engage in a wide range of coursework, including the study of linguistic structures, syntax, semantics, and phonetics, complemented by detailed examinations of literary genres, periods, movements, and authors. The program also explores interdisciplinary topics such as cultural studies, media, and translation, preparing graduates for diverse careers in education, publishing, media, international relations, and beyond. Throughout their studies, students participate in various seminars, workshops, and research projects, fostering independent inquiry and collaborative learning. The faculty comprises distinguished scholars committed to academic excellence and mentorship, providing students with personalized guidance and opportunities for international exchange and internships. Emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical applications, the program aims to produce graduates who are not only proficient in the English language but also equipped with strong analytical and intercultural competencies. Graduates of the Department of English Language and Literature at Seoul National University are well-prepared to contribute to global society with a nuanced understanding of language, literature, and culture, making significant impacts in academia, education, international business, and diplomatic fields. The university's vibrant academic community and resource-rich environment support student growth and innovation, ensuring a well-rounded and fulfilling educational experience designed to meet the evolving demands of the modern world.

Courses:

  • English Grammar
  • Survey of English Linguistics
  • English Literature from Restoration to Reform Bills
  • English Literature up to Milton
  • 19th-Century American Novel
  • Structure of English
  • English Writing
  • 20th-Century English Literature
  • Applied English Linguistics
  • American Literature up to 1900
  • History of English Language
  • Shakespeare
  • 18th and 19th Century English Novel
  • Topics in English and American Literature
  • English Poetry 1
  • English Poetry 2
  • 20tth-Century English Novel
  • 20thCentury American Novel 3
  • English Drama
  • Modern English and American Drama
  • 20th-Century American Literature
  • American Poetry
  • English and American Literary Criticism
  • Studies in English and American Authors
  • Topics in English Linguistics
  1. Online application
  2. Either proof of Korean or English proficiency is required;     1) Korean Proficiency: TOPIK level 3 or higher     2) English Proficiency: TOEFL (PBT 550, CBT 213, iBT 80), TEPS 551, IELTS 5.5 or higher     3) Other official documents indicating proof of language proficiency (ie. SNU Korean Language Center Level 4 or higher)
  3. Personal Statement and Study Plan
  4. Letter of Recommendation
  5. Counselor Reference
  6. Official High School Transcript and Graduation Certificate
  7. A Copy of the Applicant’s Passport
  8. Certificate of Facts concerning the Entry and Exit
  9. Portfolio, Records of Achievement, etc.
  10. Agreement for Verification of Academic Record

If you wish to apply for the scholarship program, please fill out the scholarship application form every semester. Application period:

  • During November(1st semester)
  • During May(2nd semester)

New  Student (Merit scholarship)

  • Funding: Fully funded or partially funded (admission fee + tuition 10%)
  • Eligibility: New undergraduate student (Full fund – 2 by college (excluding science and engineering);

Partial fund – selected within the 30% of the registered students)

Current Student (Merit scholarship)

  • GPA requirement: Completed more than one semester; 3.6 GPA or higher (average of all semesters)
  • Funding: Fully funded
  • Eligibility: Undergraduate student (selected from the allotted pool)

International Student Scholarship:

  • GPA requirement: 2.4 GPA or higher (average of the previous semester)
  • Funding: Tuition and fees (partial or fully funded)
  • Eligibility: International student in the government-funded (government-invited) scholarship, international

    student (self-funded), Korean student living overseas and studying in Korea (undergraduate and graduate course)

SNU Foundation Scholarship:

  • GPA requirement: 2.7 GPA or higher (average of the previous semester)
  • Funding: Tuition and fees (partial or fully funded)
  • Feature: Scholarship funded by some 200 funds created by Seoul National University Foundation

The following is the scholarship programs offered for undergraduate applicants. Students may apply for the programs before or during the admission application period. Applicants may find program details via this website http://en.snu.ac.kr/apply/info or supporting organizations.

Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP)

Eligibility

  • International applicants who wish to apply for 4-year undergraduate programs of SNU.
  • * Those who wish to study in the programs longer than 4 years – such as medicine, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, and architecture – cannot apply for this scholarship.

Number of Recipients

  • Approximately 20~40 every year

Subsidies

  • Full tuition fee: tuition exemption for 8 semesters
  • Living expenses: 800,000 KRW per month
  • Airfare: one economy round trip
  • Korean language training fee: one year
    * Korean language training is mandatory and when the student does not achieve TOPIK grade 3 within a year, she/he is not eligible to enter the degree program.
  • Others: medical insurance, settlement and returning expenses

Application Period

  • September

Selection Procedure

  • Applicants submit applications for this program to Korean embassies in their countries ⇒ the embassies make the first selection ⇒ the National Institute for International Education make the final selection

Contact

  • SNU staff in charge: 82-2-880-6971, sck590@snu.ac.kr

Reference

  • NIIED: http://www.studyinkorea.go.kr (English version) ⇒ GKS ⇒ Introduction to the projects ⇒ Korean Government Scholarship Program
  • 2016 KGSP Guideline Download

Overseas Koreans Scholarship

Eligibility

  • Overseas Korean students who wish to take undergraduate degrees at SNU

Number of Recipients

  • Approximately 5 students

Subsidies

  • Full tuition exemption for a maximum of 8 semesters
  • Living expenses: 800,000 KRW per month
  • Airfare for one economy round trip
  • Korean language training fee: fee exemption at the Language Education Institute for 8 months
  • Medical insurance fees

Application Period

  • March

Selection Procedure

  • Applicants submit applications to Korean embassies in their countries ⇒ the embassies make the first selection ⇒ the Overseas Koreans Foundation make the second selection

Contacts

  • SNU staff in charge: 82-2-880-2519, intlscholarship@snu.ac.kr
  • Overseas Koreans Foundation: 82-2-3415-0174, ljh@okf.or.kr
    * The latest announcement on this scholarship can be found only via the foundation’s website.

Reference

  • Overseas Koreans Foundation: http://scholarship.korean.net (Korean)

The Department of English Language and Literature at Seoul National University is a prestigious academic programme designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of English language, literature, and related cultural studies. The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep appreciation for literary arts from various periods and regions. Students have the opportunity to study classical and modern English literature, linguistics, and cultural history, preparing them for diverse careers in education, publishing, media, and international relations. The programme fosters an environment of scholarly inquiry, encouraging students to engage in research projects, discussions, and comparative analyses of literary works. Additionally, it offers courses in creative writing, translation studies, and intercultural communication to enhance students' expressive abilities and intercultural competence. Alongside coursework, students can participate in seminars, workshops, and internships that provide practical experience and deepen their understanding of the field. The department also promotes engagement with contemporary issues through interdisciplinary approaches, integrating studies in media, gender, and post-colonialism. Graduates of the programme often pursue advanced degrees domestically and internationally or enter professional fields that demand strong linguistic and analytical skills. Faculty members are distinguished scholars who contribute to research and publication, enriching the academic environment. The department's facilities include dedicated classrooms, a well-stocked library with extensive holdings in English literature and linguistics, and access to digital resources. Seoul National University's campus offers a vibrant community life with numerous cultural events, student organizations, and international exchange programs, further enhancing the overall educational experience. The department strives to cultivate graduates who are not only proficient in English but also culturally aware and capable of critical engagement with global issues, equipping them to thrive in various professional and academic pursuits.

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