Course overview

The BA (Hons) English Literature course offers a deep dive into the world of literary analysis, critical theory, and historical contexts, equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of English literature from its origins to contemporary works. Throughout the programme, students engage with a wide range of texts, from classic works by Shakespeare and Austen to modern and postmodern literature. The course encourages students to explore themes, structures, and the cultural impact of literature, developing critical thinking, writing, and research skills that are highly valued in various professional fields.

Quick Facts

Locations London
Duration 3 years : Full-time, 4 years : Full-time - with Foundation Year entry
Fees Undergraduate degree: £9,535, Foundation Year: £5,760
Awarded Degree Undergraduate
Way of Study On Campus
Intake available September

To apply for the BA (Hons) English Literature course:

  • 104–120 UCAS points (or equivalent) for direct entry.
  • Foundation Year Entry: 64 UCAS points (or equivalent).
  • Applications from students studying T Levels are encouraged.

Accepted qualifications for undergraduate courses include:

  • Passes in two distinct subjects at GCE Advanced Level.
  • A pass in one subject at GCE Advanced Level plus either:
    • Passes in two distinct subjects at GCE Advanced Subsidiary Level, or
    • A Vocational A-Level Single Award, or
    • Two Vocational A-Level part Awards.
  • A Vocational A-Level Double Award.
  • A Vocational A-Level Single Award plus either:
    • Two Vocational A-Level part Awards, or
    • Passes in two distinct subjects at GCE Advanced Subsidiary Level.
  • A BTEC National Certificate or Diploma.
  • A completed T Level award.
  • A Scottish Certificate of Education with either:
    • Passes in five subjects, including at least three at Higher grade, or
    • Passes in four subjects all at Higher or New Higher grade.
  • A full Diploma of the International Baccalaureate.
  • An Irish Leaving Certificate with passes in four subjects at Grade C at the Higher level.

Certain courses may require GCSE Grade C/4 or above in specific subjects or an equivalent qualification. All applicants must pass an academic interview.

The BA (Hons) English Literature programme offers a diverse and engaging learning experience. Lectures provide a thorough grounding in the history of literature, while seminars encourage in-depth discussion and critical debate on key texts. The course promotes independent learning, with students required to analyse literary works, explore different theoretical approaches, and develop their own interpretations. Assessment methods focus on essays, research papers, presentations, and group projects, which allow students to demonstrate their critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills.

Graduates of the BA (Hons) English Literature course can pursue a variety of career paths, including:

  1. Editor: Reviews and revises content for publication, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and consistency in writing.
  2. Writer/Author: Writes fiction or non-fiction, including novels, short stories, articles, and other forms of literature.
  3. Journalist: Reports on news and events, writing compelling stories for print, online, or broadcast media.
  4. Content Manager: Manages online or offline content, overseeing strategy, creation, and distribution to engage target audiences.
  5. Teacher: Teaches English literature at secondary or higher education levels, inspiring students to explore literature.
  6. Publisher: Works in the publishing industry, managing the production, marketing, and distribution of books and literary works.
  7. Public Relations Specialist: Manages a company or individual’s public image through effective communication strategies.
  8. Librarian: Organises, manages, and curates collections of books, articles, and other resources in libraries.
  9. Literary Agent: Represents authors and their work, negotiating contracts and helping to secure publishing deals.
  10. Researcher: Conducts in-depth research into literature, culture, and historical contexts for academic, journalistic, or publishing purposes.

Applicants must provide the following documents:

  1. CV with 3+ Years of Work Experience: For candidates without formal qualifications (depending on the university).
  2. Passport or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): Proof of identity and nationality.
  3. Proof of Address: A recent utility bill, bank statement, or equivalent.
  4. Qualifications: Certificates or transcripts for previous education.
  5. EU Settlement Status (Share Code): Required for EU citizens residing in the UK.
  6. Personal Statement (300+ Words): A statement outlining academic interests, career aspirations, and suitability for the course (depending on the university).
  7. Work Reference Letter: Verification of employment or experience (if applicable).
  8. Share Code: Required for non-UK citizens to confirm immigration status.

Student Finance England (SFE) offers invaluable financial support to eligible students. This may cover tuition fees, maintenance loans for living costs, and additional support for students with children or adult dependants. To be eligible:

1. Eligibility Criteria for Student Finance England (SFE):
   - Must be a UK national or have a settled status.
   - Should be ordinarily resident in England.
   - Chosen university and course must be recognised by SFE.
   - Previous study and age may affect eligibility.
   - Must be in the UK for a minimum of 3 years to access the fund.

2. Eligible Categories:
   - UK & EU nationals (including pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme).
   - Refugees and their family members.
   - Individuals with humanitarian protection status and their family members.
   - Migrant workers or frontier workers from the EU.
   - Stateless persons and their family members.
   - Holders of UK visas under the Ukraine Family Scheme.

3. Age Requirements:
   - No upper age limit for Tuition Fee Loans or grants.
   - Limited funding for Maintenance Loans available for individuals aged 60 or over under specific conditions:
     - Must be 60 or over on the first day of the first academic year of the course.
     - Studying full-time.
     - Course started on or after 1 August 2016.

4. Funding Amount:
   - The amount of funding depends on household income.
   - Maintenance Loans for individuals aged 60 or over may have limited availability based on specific criteria.

5. Additional Information:
   - Criteria and regulations can be subject to change.
   - Always verify specific criteria and regulations directly with SFE or consult their official website for the latest information.

For comprehensive and up-to-date details, it is advisable to reach out directly to Student Finance England or visit their official website.

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