Literature and Sociology

Literature and Sociology at the University of Essex offers an interdisciplinary programme designed to explore the complex relationships between texts, culture, society, and social change. This course provides students with the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of literary works across various periods and genres, while also examining the social contexts and theories that influence and are reflected in these texts. Throughout the programme, students will engage with a diverse range of literary traditions, from classic to contemporary, alongside critical social theories that analyze societal structures, cultural norms, and collective identities. The course emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and interpretative strategies, enabling students to appreciate the nuanced ways in which literature reflects and impacts society. Classes are conducted through lectures, seminars, and workshops, fostering dynamic discussions and collaborative learning. Students will undertake comparative analyses, research projects, and independent study, culminating in a dissertation that synthesizes their understanding of the interconnectedness between literature and social issues. The programme also encourages students to explore contemporary debates such as identity, power, inequality, and social justice, equipping graduates with the intellectual tools necessary for careers in education, journalism, publishing, community work, or further academic research. With access to modern facilities, a supportive academic community, and opportunities for international exchange, students on this programme benefit from a rich educational environment that promotes critical inquiry, intercultural awareness, and professional development. The combination of literary and sociological perspectives aims to prepare students to understand and interpret the complexities of modern society through the lens of literature, fostering insightful and socially aware graduates ready to make meaningful contributions in various professional contexts.

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;
Sociological Analysis I; and
one option

Year 2

Sociological Analysis II;
one sociology option; and
two literature options

Year 3

Sociological Analysis III;
one sociology option; and
two literature options

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 BA Literary and Cultural Studies program at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth exploration of literature, culture, and society. Designed to cultivate critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of textual and cultural phenomena, this degree provides students with a comprehensive foundation in contemporary and classical literary analysis. The program combines theoretical approaches with practical analysis, encouraging students to examine texts from various historical periods and geographic regions, fostering an awareness of diverse cultural contexts.

Students will engage with a wide array of literary genres, including poetry, prose, drama, and digital literature, gaining insights into the evolution of literary forms and their societal impacts. The curriculum also emphasizes interdisciplinary study, integrating perspectives from history, philosophy, and media studies. This broad approach prepares graduates for careers in education, publishing, media, cultural institutions, and beyond.

The program is structured to include core modules on literary theory, critical analysis, and research methods, complemented by optional modules that allow students to tailor their studies according to personal interests. Field trips, guest lectures, and collaborative projects form part of the learning experience, enhancing practical skills and industry awareness.

Assessment methods include essays, presentations, group projects, and exams, encouraging diverse modes of academic expression. The program also offers opportunities for work placements and internships, often through partnerships with cultural organizations, museums, and media companies, providing valuable real-world experience.

The university’s vibrant academic community is supported by expert faculty members with international reputations in literature and cultural studies. Facilities include dedicated research and computer labs, extensive library collections, and access to digital resources.

Graduates of the program will emerge with a robust analytical toolkit, an understanding of cultural dynamics, and the ability to interpret complex texts, preparing them for further academic study or successful careers in various cultural and creative sectors. The University of Essex's focus on research-led teaching ensures that students are engaged with the latest scholarship and methodological approaches, fostering intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning.