English Literature

The Bachelor of Arts in English Literature at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the rich and diverse world of English literary tradition. Throughout this degree programme, students engage with a wide range of texts spanning from the medieval period to contemporary works, gaining critical understanding and analytical skills that are essential for evaluating literature's role in society and culture. The course is designed to develop students’ abilities in close reading, textual analysis, and contextual interpretation, fostering an appreciation for literary styles, themes, and historical developments.

The programme encompasses various modules that cover essential literary periods such as the Renaissance, Romanticism, Victorian, Modernist, and Postmodernist literature, alongside specialised topics like gender studies, postcolonialism, and literary theory. Students have the opportunity to explore different genres, including poetry, drama, fiction, and non-fiction, allowing for a broad understanding of the textual landscape of the English language. The curriculum is complemented by modules that promote skills in academic writing, research methods, and digital humanities, preparing graduates for a range of careers or further postgraduate study.

At Essex, students benefit from a vibrant academic community with experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields. The programme encourages critical thinking, independent research, and creative expression, supporting students in developing their unique academic voice. Furthermore, the university’s innovative teaching methods include seminars, workshops, and opportunities for collaborative projects, ensuring an engaging and interactive learning environment.

Students have access to excellent resources, including the university’s vast library collections, digital archives, and dedicated language labs. Additionally, study abroad options and placement opportunities are available, offering practical experience and intercultural understanding. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped for careers in publishing, education, journalism, media, arts administration, and other fields that value strong communication, analytical skills, and cultural awareness. The University of Essex’s B.A. in English Literature combines historical breadth, critical engagement, and practical skills, making it an ideal choice for those passionate about literature and its impact on the world.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our courses are flexibility and choice. In your first year, you usually take four or five modules that include pre-requisite(s) for your course but, in many cases, mean you can try subjects you have not come across before. If you are taking a humanities or social science, then you have the greatest choice, as most of our first-year modules do not assume any specialist knowledge.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BA, then you are qualified to enter the second year of that course and a range of other courses: for example, if you take economics, politics, philosophy and sociology, then you have a choice of at least nine possible single or joint honours courses at the end of your first year. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available. We offer a range of optional modules in your second- and final-years and most courses allow you to undertake a final-year project, an individual piece of research on a topic that interests you.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

The Enlightenment;
Introduction to Literature;
Close Reading Skills/Writing Skills; and
one option

Year 2

Early Modern Literature;
Versions of Modernity;
Approaches to Text; and
one option or year abroad in Europe (ERASMUS programme)

Year 3

Four literature options (at least two in English literature)

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

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

Requirements

A-levels: ABB-BBB, including at least one A-level in a humanities subject (or equivalent)
GCSE English: C
IB: 32-30 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above) or achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at merit (or above).
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

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 Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

The Bachelor of Arts in English Literature at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive exploration of literary works from different periods, genres, and cultures. This programme is designed to develop students' critical thinking, analytical skills, and understanding of the historical, social, and cultural contexts that influence literature. Throughout their studies, students engage with a wide range of texts, including classic and contemporary works, poetry, drama, and prose. The curriculum emphasizes close reading and interpretative skills, encouraging students to develop original insights and arguments.

The course structure typically includes core modules that focus on key literary periods such as the Medieval, Renaissance, Romantic, Victorian, and modern/post-modern eras. Optional modules allow students to specialize further in areas like world literature, literary theory, gender studies, and creative writing. Assessment methods often include essays, presentations, and exams, helping students refine their academic and communication skills.

Students benefit from access to well-equipped libraries, online databases, and dedicated academic staff with expertise across various literary disciplines. The programme also offers opportunities for internships, study abroad, and participation in literary festivals and events, enriching the students’ learning experience. Graduates of this degree often pursue careers in education, publishing, journalism, arts administration, or continue their studies at postgraduate levels.

The University of Essex is known for its vibrant student community and supportive learning environment. The campus provides a stimulating atmosphere for literary exploration, with dedicated spaces for reading and discussion. Additionally, the university's focus on research-led teaching ensures that students are exposed to the latest scholarly debates and developments in the field of English literature.

Overall, the BA in English Literature at Essex aims to foster a lifelong passion for reading and critical inquiry, equipping graduates with valuable skills that are highly regarded across numerous professional sectors. The programme is suitable for students who have a keen interest in literature, cultural studies, and creative expression, and who wish to develop a deep understanding of the written word within an international and diverse academic setting.