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Study English Literature in the UK
While studies in English literature tend to attract avid readers, there are many other benefits of studying literature. Literary studies encourage students to think critically, analyze works in relation to their respective era, and draw connections to how those works impact the practices and structures of past and present populations.
These programs can focus on historical English literature written by some of the most famous British authors but can also include more specialized areas such as Gothic literature, Poetry, Contemporary literature, Children’s literature and Queer literature to name a few.
Where there is not specialized study, students are often presented the opportunity to bring their own interests to the works they study in-class.
What to Expect from your Studies:
There are many different types of literature you can study. English literature is quite broad, and you are introduced to many different authors who were important in their time and who then portray the time in which they lived.
You will also learn about different genres, history, narrative styles, poems, and theories about why certain authors wrote the way they did.
Studies include a mixture of in-class seminars, independent reading, or research, and may even include related out of classroom excursions (such as a museum or library).
When analyzing texts and completing written assignments, students are expected to draw from critics and/or other academics to help support their own analysis. This also opens in-class discussions where different viewpoints are expected and encouraged.
Choosing the Right Program
One of the main aims of this study is that you as a student will be introduced to a wide range of literary texts that will make you enthusiastic and critical of literature. The kind of literature and which books the universities want you to read can vary, so it’s best to read the course descriptions carefully and review the kind of eras and literary works offered. You can also review what sort of research the tutors/academics are completing or have completed to gain a better understanding of what they’re likely to bring to their taught modules. Across the Pond can help with this!
Combining English Literature with Other Areas of Study
At bachelor's level, you can often combine English literature with another study. The combination possibilities do vary from university to university, but the most popular studies to combine with are Creative Writing, Journalism and Linguistics.
Master’s Degree in 1 Year
Many UK universities offer master's degrees that can be completed in one year. In addition to this, you can apply to almost any master's degree without necessarily having a bachelor's degree in the same field. Of course, a relevant bachelor's degree would be advantageous, but it is not always a requirement.
Job Opportunities
English literature programs develop highly sought after skills for future employers. These include, but are not limited to:
- Critical Thinking
- Organization
- Effective Writing
- Time Management
- Attention to Detail
Want to Learn More?
If this is an area you’re interested in pursuing, your personal Across the Pond advisor will be happy to send you suggestions for studies that will suit your interests and align with your academic history.
With the assistance of your Across the Pond advisor, you will have someone who can help you with information about admission requirements (these can vary depending on your Canadian province or university), which studies are available at bachelor's and master's level and help find the studies and universities that best suit you with your background, grades, desire to study and possibly place of study.
As the studies and universities all have different criteria and levels, it is unfortunately impossible to state all the nuances here on this page, so to get the most accurate information tailored to you and your wishes, get in touch with one of our advisors.
All help from us is free and without obligation.
