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The BA in Music, English and American Literature at the University of Kent offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary curriculum designed to develop students' understanding and appreciation of two vibrant, expressive arts disciplines. This program provides an opportunity for students to engage deeply with the history, theory, and practice of music alongside the rich literary traditions of the English and American contexts. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of musical styles, genres, and periods, from classical to contemporary, as well as delve into critical analyses of literary texts, exploring themes, narrative techniques, and cultural contexts.
The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, encouraging students to analyze musical compositions and literary works critically, while also fostering their creative abilities through coursework and project work. Students will benefit from the expertise of faculty members who are highly experienced in their fields, providing mentoring in research methods, performance, and scholarly writing. The curriculum includes modules on music history, performance skills, literary analysis, and cultural studies, ensuring a well-rounded education that bridges the gap between music and literature.
In addition to academic coursework, students are encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities, such as concerts, literary societies, and student-led performances, which enrich their learning experience and provide practical applications of their knowledge. The program also offers opportunities for placements, internships, and study abroad exchanges, enabling students to gain real-world experience and broaden their cultural perspectives.
Graduates of this program will be equipped with critical thinking, analytical skills, and creative confidence, preparing them for careers in fields such as education, publishing, media, arts management, or further postgraduate study. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree fosters a versatile skill set and a deep appreciation for both musical and literary arts, making graduates valuable contributors to cultural and artistic sectors locally, nationally, and internationally.
Detailed Course Facts
Application deadline You are advised to apply as early as possible Tuition fee- GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
- GBP 14860 Year (Non-EEA)
- Total Kent credits: 360
- Total ECTS credits: 180
- Total Kent credits: 360
- Total ECTS credits: 180
- English
Course Content
Course structureThe course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take wild modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.
Stage 1
Possible modules may include:
- MU313 - Audio Technologies 1
- MU314 - Contextual Studies
- MU323 - Songwriting 1: Theory and Practice
- MU325 - Music Performance 1
Stage 2
Possible modules may include:
- MU520 - Popular and World Music
- MU613 - Audio Technologies II
- MU614 - Music and Sound for Film and Television
- MU522 - Songwriting 2
- MU519 - Music Performance 2
- MU524 - Found Image, Found Sound
- MU528 - Cinema for the Ears: Composing with Sound and Space
- MU529 - Interdisciplinary Project
- MU619 - Music In Education
- MU532 - Ensemble Performance
Year in industry
The Year in Industry gives you an opportunity to gain relevant workplace experience as part of your programme of study. We have long recognised the benefits of taking a year abroad and the increased awareness and confidence the experience brings and now want to offer these benefits to students within the workplace.
The year in industry will also give you an opportunity to increase your contacts and network so that you can hit the ground running when you graduate.
The year in industry is in addition to your standard undergraduate programme and normally falls between your second and final year. The year itself is assessed on a pass/fail basis through employer feedback and a written report that you submit.
Stage 3
Possible modules may include:
- MU600 - Dissertation
- MU602 - Individual Project
- MU518 - Critical Study and Presentation
- MU531 - Music Performance 3
- MU523 - Found Image, Found Sound
- MU617 - Professional Practice
- MU618 - Music in Education
- MU530 - Interdisciplinary Project
- MU620 - Cinema for the Ears: Composing with Sound and Space
- MU621 - Technology in Performance
- MU622 - Ensemble Performance
English Language Requirements
IELTS band : 6.5 CAE score : 75(Grade B)
To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to
take an IELTS test.Requirements
Home/EU studentsThose without formal music qualifications should contact the admissions officer. UK-based candidates are interviewed and auditioned. Non-UK candidates should supply a digital portfolio and may be interviewed.
Qualification / Typical offer/minimum requirement- A level
ABB-BBB including B in Music/Music Technology. For non-A level candidates grade 6 or equivalent level of ability in music required.
- Access to HE Diploma
The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.
- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma)
Distinction, Merit, Merit
- International Baccalaureate
34 points overall or 16 at HL with Music at 5 HL or 6 SL
International studentsThe University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements. See our International Student website for further information about our country-specific requirements.
Please note that if you need to increase your level of qualification ready for undergraduate study, we offer a number of International Foundation Programmes through Kent International Pathways.
Qualification / Typical offer/minimum requirement- English Language Requirements
Please see our English language entry requirements web page.
Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes through Kent International Pathways.
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 Kent.
The University of Kent offers undergraduate programs in English and American Literature that provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the literary traditions, cultural contexts, and critical approaches related to English and American texts. The programme typically covers a diverse range of genres, including poetry, prose, drama, and contemporary literature, allowing students to explore historical periods from medieval times to the modern era. Students engage with key works by seminal authors, analyze thematic developments, and consider the social and political implications of various literary movements. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective written communication, preparing graduates for careers in publishing, teaching, journalism, and other fields related to arts and media.
Throughout their studies, students will have opportunities to participate in literary criticism, creative writing workshops, and research projects. The programme often incorporates modules that explore comparative literature, film studies, and cultural studies, offering a multidisciplinary approach to understanding literature in its broader societal context. The university collaborates with renowned academics and writers to enrich the learning experience, including guest lectures, seminars, and collaborative projects.
Kent's English and American Literature programmes emphasize both theoretical and practical skills, encouraging students to produce original work and to critically evaluate existing scholarship. Many modules include assessments like essays, presentations, and creative assignments, fostering diverse competencies. The university also provides excellent library resources, access to literary archives, and modern learning facilities, supporting in-depth research and independent study.
Graduates of this programme often pursue further academic study, with many going on to master's and doctoral research, or entering professional fields such as editing, cultural analysis, and education. The programme aims to cultivate a nuanced understanding of the literary arts and their significance in shaping cultural identities across centuries. By the end of their studies, students will have developed a sophisticated literary literacy, analytical capabilities, and a strong foundation for various career paths.