English

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Local:$ 9 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 14.7 k / Year(s)  
127 place StudyQA ranking:5719 Duration:36 months

Photos of university / #uni_southampton

The Bachelor of Arts in English at the University of Southampton offers students an in-depth exploration of English language, literature, and critical analysis. This comprehensive programme is designed to develop a student's understanding of the historical, cultural, and theoretical aspects of English studies, providing a solid foundation for a range of careers in writing, publishing, teaching, and media. Throughout the course, students engage with a diverse selection of texts from different periods, genres, and contexts, fostering skills in close reading, textual analysis, and effective communication. The programme encourages independent thinking and critical reflection, allowing students to explore themes such as identity, society, and innovation within English literature and language.

Students will have the opportunity to specialise in areas like Victorian literature, contemporary texts, literary theory, or creative writing, depending on their interests and career aspirations. The programme integrates lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and individual research projects, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Additionally, students may benefit from the university’s strong links with local literary organizations and publishers, offering valuable networking and internship opportunities. The course also emphasizes the importance of digital literacy and media analysis in modern English studies, preparing graduates for the evolving demands of the job market.

With a flexible structure, students can choose modules that align with their personal goals, and the programme’s supportive academic staff ensure that each student receives tailored guidance and mentorship. Graduates of this degree are well-prepared for careers in education, writing, editing, publishing, arts management, and beyond, or for further postgraduate study. The University of Southampton’s vibrant campus environment and extensive resources make it an ideal place for students to immerse themselves in the study of English, fostering both academic excellence and personal growth.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline EEA:January; International (non-EU) : June Tuition fee
  • GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
  • GBP 14660 Year (Non-EEA)
Start date October 2015 Duration full-time 36 months Languages Take an IELTS test
  • English
Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

Programme Structure
  • • In your first year, you will take core modules on the form and material context of different literary narratives; the relationship between drama and cinema; and concepts and debates in critical theory. You will also have the opportunity to study Poetic Language, medieval English, or a foreign language.
  • • In your second year you will choose from a wide range of literary and cultural topics from the medieval period to the early twenty-first century.
  • • In your final year you will consolidate your knowledge and skills as an independent researcher in literary studies by completing a dissertation on a literary topic of your choice.
In all three years you have the option to take 25% of your programme in another subject.Typical course content

Innovation modules outside of your subject area

Our Curriculum Innovation Programme offers you the chance to take optional modules outside of your chosen subject area. This allows you to personalise your education, to develop new skills and knowledge for your future. Modules range from "Living and working on the web" to "Business skills for employability".

Learn a language

Some of our courses also give you the option of taking a language module, which can count towards your degree. These modules cover ten languages and range from absolute beginner to near-native speaker level.

Requirements

A Levels:

AAB from 3 A levels with a grade A in English Literature, English Language and Literature, or English Language plus an A and a B in other A level subjects.

Or

ABB from 3 A levels with a grade A in English Literature, English Language and Literature, or English Language and A in Extended Project Qualification

We may interview students taking English Language A level without a Literature component, due to the literary emphasis of our degree programmes.

We accept all A levels except General Studies.

IB:

34 points, 17 at higher level, including 6 in higher level English

Selection process:

Intake: 200 Average applicants per place: 8

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

  • Academic Excellence Scholarship

    "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

  • Access Bursary

    Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

  • Alumni Bursary

    Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Southampton.

The BA English programme at the University of Southampton offers students an extensive and comprehensive education in the study of English literature and language. This degree is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a profound understanding of English literary heritage from the medieval period to contemporary works. Students will engage with a wide range of texts, including poetry, prose, drama, and non-fiction, exploring themes such as identity, society, politics, and cultural change. The curriculum emphasizes both historical context and close textual analysis, fostering interpretive skills necessary for careers in writing, publishing, media, education, and beyond.

The programme includes modules covering literary history, theoretical approaches, and creative writing, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests. In addition to core modules, students have the opportunity to enhance their employability through placements, internships, or studying abroad, gaining practical experience alongside academic knowledge. The university’s facilities support interactive learning, with access to extensive libraries, digital resources, and writing workshops. The teaching team comprises experienced academics and researchers who are actively involved in their fields, providing students with mentorship and guidance.

Assessment methods are diverse, including essays, presentations, exams, and projects, encouraging a wide range of skills development. The programme also emphasizes the importance of independent research, preparing students for postgraduate study or careers requiring high levels of literacy and analytical ability. Southampton’s vibrant student community and its location in Southampton offer a supportive environment for academic and personal growth. Graduates of the BA English programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in journalism, publishing, advertising, teaching, and other sectors that value advanced communication skills. With a strong emphasis on critical engagement with texts and contexts, this programme aims to cultivate thoughtful, articulate, and culturally aware graduates ready to make an impact in their chosen fields.

Similar programs:
Study mode:On campus Languages: English
Local:$ 2.48 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 2.48 k / Year(s)
160 place StudyQA ranking: 9360
Study mode:On campus Languages: English
Local:$ 9 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 12 k / Year(s)
Deadline: Jan 15, 2026 301–350 place StudyQA ranking: 5011
Study mode:On campus Languages: English
Local:$ 4.84 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 15.2 k / Year(s)
51 place StudyQA ranking: 5748
Study mode:On campus Languages: English
Local:$ 9 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 12 k / Year(s)
Deadline: Jan 15, 2026 301–350 place StudyQA ranking: 4639
Study mode:On campus Languages: English
Local:$ 5.79 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 18.9 k / Year(s)
Deadline: Jun 1, 2026 StudyQA ranking: 8069
Study mode:On campus Languages: English
Local:$ 9 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 12 k / Year(s)
Deadline: Jan 15, 2026 301–350 place StudyQA ranking: 7686
Study mode:On campus Languages: English
Local:$ 9.75 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 15.4 k / Year(s)
601–800 place StudyQA ranking: 10196