English Literature and Philosophy

The BA in English Literature and Philosophy at the University of East Anglia offers students a unique opportunity to explore two of the most profound and influential disciplines in the humanities. This multidisciplinary programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep appreciation for human thought and expression. Students will engage with a wide range of literary texts, from classic and contemporary writers to poetic and narrative forms, gaining insight into cultural, historical, and social contexts that shape literature. Simultaneously, the philosophy component encourages students to investigate fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and meaning through rigorous analysis and argumentation. The integration of these subjects allows students to understand the interconnectedness of literary and philosophical ideas and to develop their own perspectives on complex issues.

Throughout the course, students will benefit from the expertise of experienced academic staff renowned for their research and teaching excellence. The programme offers a diverse selection of modules, including literary analysis, critical theory, philosophy of mind, ethics, and aesthetics, enabling students to tailor their studies to align with personal interests and career aspirations. The university’s strong emphasis on independent study, creative thinking, and research prepares graduates for a wide range of careers, including education, publishing, journalism, law, and further academic study.

Students will also have access to excellent resources, such as extensive library collections, dedicated study spaces, and opportunities for participation in seminars, workshops, and international study exchanges. The programme promotes a lively intellectual community where students can discuss and debate ideas with peers and faculty, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Graduates of the BA in English Literature and Philosophy emerge with a nuanced understanding of human culture and thought, equipped with transferable skills that are highly valued in numerous professional fields. Whether your interest lies in analyzing literary texts, exploring philosophical theories, or pursuing interdisciplinary research, this programme provides a comprehensive foundation for academic and personal growth.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10560 Year (EEA)
• EUR 14430 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU £9,000; International £12,300

• English

Course Content

In Year 1, you take six compulsory modules, three each from philosophy and literature.

In Year 2, you must take one module in English theory and one module from a list of English second-level modules, plus any two second-level philosophy modules. In addition, you are entitled to two free choice modules, which can be chosen from any eligible module within the University. You may choose to focus, doing more philosophy or literature modules, or to broaden your interests by taking modules from another humanity, a social science or even a science. Or you can take a language or a more practical career-based module, in preparation for employment after university.

In your third year, you must take the compulsory literature and philosophy module plus any third-level English module and any two third-level philosophy modules. Some students choose the dissertation module (in either English or philosophy) in the final year: the 10,000-word dissertation, on a philosophical or literary subject, or interdisciplinary between the two, is prepared under the guidance of a tutor (this is recommended for students thinking of going on to do postgraduate study).

Teaching and Assessment

Philosophy thrives on discussion and the exchange of views. Only some parts of it can be done in large lecture classes. So we do have some of those—but when we do, they are designed to set you thinking, not to tell you facts. It's about learning how to think, and how to express what you think, not learning what to say. All the units have small group seminars or tutorials in which you work on the problems with a member of staff.

During the year your written work is marked by the seminar tutors. They give you comments and feedback to help you improve. Time is set aside for you to call on the lecturers to discuss your work or to get individual guidance.

Assessment is by a mixture of essays, longer projects or dissertation, and examinations. Each unit has its own mix of assessment. The degree result is calculated from the results of all the units in your final two years.

Year Abroad

One semester can be spent in Finland, Germany or Greece on the ERASMUS exchange programme.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 TOEFL iBT® test : 88

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A Level: AAB-ABB including a B grade in English Literature
• International Baccalaureate: 33-32 points including a score of 5 in Higher Level English
• Scottish Highers: Must have Advanced Higher in English Literature
• Scottish Advanced Highers: AAB-ABB including a B grade in English Literature
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAABB-AABBBB including a B grade in English Literature
• Access Course: Please contact the university for further information.
• HND: Please contact the university for further information.
• European Baccalaureate: 80-75% including English Literature

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in Reading and Writing with no less than 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 88 overall (minimum 20 in Reading and Speaking components, 19 in Writing component and 17 in Listening components.
• PTE: 62 overall (minimum 55 in Reading and Writing components with no less than 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

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 East Anglia.

The BA in English Literature and Philosophy at the University of East Anglia offers students a unique interdisciplinary learning experience that combines the study of classic and contemporary literary works with engaging philosophical inquiry. This dual honours programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of human culture and thought. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of texts, including poetry, fiction, drama, and philosophical writings, from different historical periods and cultural contexts. The programme emphasizes both close reading and theoretical approaches, encouraging students to analyze texts critically and to develop their own interpretations.

In addition to studying literature from Anglo-Saxon to modern times, students examine philosophical questions related to ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and political philosophy. The course aims to foster philosophical literacy and encourage students to consider how philosophical ideas influence literature and vice versa. Students will have the opportunity to participate in seminars, workshops, and discussions led by experienced academic staff, providing a supportive environment for intellectual growth. The programme also includes modules on research methods and academic writing skills to prepare students for further study or various career paths.

Throughout their studies, students gain skills highly valued in numerous careers, such as analytical thinking, effective communication, research, and argumentation. The University of East Anglia's location offers access to a vibrant literary and philosophical community, with opportunities for participating in public lectures, literary events, and philosophical debates. The course can be taken full-time over three years or four years with a placement year, offering flexibility to accommodate different academic needs and career ambitions. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped to pursue careers in education, publishing, media, journalism, or continue further academic research, including postgraduate studies.

Note: This description is based on typical features of similar humanities programmes at the University of East Anglia, as specific details for this exact combined degree may not be listed separately.