BA (Hons) English Literature

The Bachelor of Arts with Honours in English Literature at the University of Buckingham offers students a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the rich and diverse world of English literary traditions. This programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep appreciation for literary history, theory, and creative expression. Throughout the course, students will examine a wide range of texts from different periods, including medieval, Renaissance, Romantic, Victorian, modern, and contemporary literature. The programme encourages students to engage actively with primary sources and to develop their own interpretative and analytical skills through essays, presentations, and debates. Emphasis is placed on understanding the social, historical, and cultural contexts that shape literary works, allowing students to appreciate the ways literature reflects and influences society. The curriculum also includes opportunities to explore creative writing and literary criticism, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the craft and study of literature. Taught by experienced academics in a supportive environment, the programme combines traditional literary study with innovative teaching methods and resources. Students will have access to a range of academic support services and extracurricular activities aimed at enriching their learning experience. Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for careers in education, publishing, journalism, media, and other sectors valuing strong communication and analytical skills. The University of Buckingham’s BA (Hons) in English Literature provides a rigorous academic foundation alongside opportunities for personal and professional development, preparing students for a variety of roles in a competitive job market.

The BA (Hons) English Literature programme at the University of Buckingham offers an in-depth exploration of the rich and diverse world of English literary texts from medieval times to the modern day. This course is designed to develop students' critical thinking, analytical skills, and a profound appreciation for the evolution of literature within historical, cultural, and social contexts. Throughout the programme, students will engage with a broad spectrum of literary genres, including poetry, prose, drama, and contemporary writing, enabling them to understand the enduring significance and influence of literature across generations.

The curriculum is structured to encourage both close reading and broader thematic analysis, fostering an appreciation of the ways in which literature reflects, challenges, and shapes its society. Students will study classic authors such as Chaucer, Shakespeare, Milton, and Jane Austen, alongside modern writers like Virginia Woolf, Samuel Beckett, and contemporary voices. The programme emphasizes comparative analysis, enabling students to draw connections between different periods and styles, while also developing their own critical voice through essays, presentations, and debates.

Practical skills such as textual analysis, research methodologies, and academic writing are central to the programme, preparing students for a range of careers within publishing, teaching, journalism, or further academic research. Additionally, the course offers opportunities for creative writing and participation in literary festivals and publications, further enriching the student experience.

Delivered mainly through seminars, tutorials, and independent study, the programme promotes a collaborative learning environment where students are encouraged to express their ideas and challenge existing interpretations. The University of Buckingham’s compact campus and close faculty-student relationships ensure personalised guidance and mentoring throughout the programme.

Graduates of the English Literature programme at Buckingham leave equipped with a sophisticated understanding of literary history, enhanced critical faculties, and the skills necessary for diverse professional pathways. The programme not only cultivates a lifelong passion for reading and analysis but also equips students with transferable skills that are highly valued in many fields. Whether you aim to pursue further academic study or enter the employment market directly, this programme offers a comprehensive foundation in one of the most dynamic and culturally significant disciplines.

The University of Buckingham offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree in English Literature designed to develop students' analytical, interpretive, and critical skills through the study of a wide range of literary texts. The program requires students to complete a minimum of 360 UK credits over three years of full-time study, including core modules, optional modules, and a dissertation project. Entry requirements typically include A-levels or equivalent qualifications, with a preferred offer of BBB or higher, and proficiency in English demonstrated through a standardised test or prior education. The coursework emphasizes the study of classic and contemporary literature, including poetry, prose, drama, and literary theory. Students are encouraged to explore various genres and historical periods, ranging from Medieval to modern and postcolonial literature, fostering an understanding of cultural and historical contexts. The curriculum integrates seminars, individual tutorials, and written assignments, aimed at developing students’ critical thinking and academic writing skills. Assessment methods consist of essays, examinations, presentations, and a final-year dissertation, which allows students to pursue an in-depth research project on a literary topic of their choice. The program also offers opportunities for study abroad and work placements to enhance professional development. Graduates of the program have gone on to careers in education, publishing, journalism, media, and further research. The university’s supportive learning environment, along with access to extensive resources in the university library and digital archives, ensures students receive a high quality of academic support. The program encourages independent study and intellectual curiosity, preparing students for diverse careers or postgraduate studies in English literature, creative writing, or related fields. Overall, the degree aims to foster a lifelong engagement with literature and critical analysis, equipping students with transferable skills applicable across many sectors.

The University of Buckingham offers a comprehensive financing package for students enrolled in the English Literature degree programme. Tuition fees for UK students are typically set at £9,250 per year, while international students are charged higher fees, which are approximately £15,500 annually. These fees are subject to annual review and may be adjusted accordingly. The university provides various options for funding, including government loans, scholarships, and bursaries. UK students can access student loans through the Student Loans Company, covering tuition fees and living expenses, with repayment commencing after graduation once earning above a certain threshold. International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities and sponsorships, as the university also offers a limited number of scholarships based on academic excellence, financial need, and other criteria.

In addition to government loans and scholarships, students can benefit from university bursaries, which are often awarded based on financial need or merit. The university also provides guidance on part-time work opportunities, which students can access through the university's careers service. These opportunities help students manage their finances while studying and gain valuable work experience. The university participates in various UK student funding initiatives, making higher education more accessible. Moreover, international students are advised to seek funding from their government or private sponsors, and the university offers assistance with application procedures for such funding sources.

For those who require additional financial support, the university recommends applying for private loans, but students should carefully review the repayment terms and interest rates before proceeding. Additional resources include financial advice services provided by the university, which help students plan their budgets and understand the total costs involved in their studies, including accommodation, learning materials, and personal expenses. Overall, the university aims to ensure that student financing options are transparent, accessible, and tailored to meet the diverse needs of its student body, enabling them to focus on their academic pursuits in English Literature without undue financial burden.

The University of Buckingham offers an English Literature undergraduate degree designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of literary history, theory, and criticism. The programme typically spans over three years for full-time students and aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep appreciation for diverse literary works from different periods and regions. Throughout the course, students engage with a broad spectrum of texts, including classical, modern, and contemporary literature, encompassing genres such as poetry, prose, drama, and non-fiction. The curriculum emphasizes both close textual analysis and broader contextual understanding, allowing students to explore themes like identity, politics, society, and human experience as reflected in literature.

Students are encouraged to develop their personal voice and critical perspective through essays, presentations, and dissertations. In addition to core modules that cover major literary periods, such as the Renaissance, Romanticism, Victorian literature, and the 20th-century, students have options to specialize in areas of particular interest, including comparative literature, literary theory, and creative writing. The programme also offers opportunities for study abroad, internships, and engagement with visiting scholars, enriching the learning environment and preparing graduates for careers in education, publishing, journalism, and other fields related to literature and the arts.

The teaching approach combines lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research to foster a dynamic and interactive learning experience. Assessment methods include essays, exams, presentations, and a final year dissertation, with a strong emphasis on original thought and high-quality academic writing. The university's small classes facilitate close interaction with faculty members, who are active researchers and experts in their respective fields. The degree aims to produce graduates who are not only well-versed in literary history but also skilled in verbal and written communication, capable of critical analysis, and prepared to contribute meaningfully to cultural and intellectual discourse. Overall, the programme provides a robust foundation in English Literature, equipping students with both historical knowledge and modern analytical skills valued in a wide range of careers.