English Language and Literature

Ready to discover the power of literature and language?
On our English Language and Literature course, you will study fantastically stimulating and distinctive modules that range from Shakespeare to contemporary fiction, and that explore how the English language works, where it comes from, and why people use English in different ways.

We aspire to help you as you help yourself in becoming a ‘citizen scholar’ who is able to think independently and make your own contribution to the world. As part of this, we ensure that you engage with advanced linguistic concepts and literature from around the world. We also offer options to broaden your experience and cultural sensitivity by studying abroad for a semester in your second year, usually in North America or mainland Europe.

Why should you choose an English degree?
This English degree is for you, if you are passionate about understanding language, literature, and how the two connect. Enthusiastic, research-active staff ensure you will study a stimulating, distinctive, and wide range of modules, covering topics, issues, texts and concepts in both language and literature, from canonical figures like Shakespeare, to cutting-edge contemporary fiction and theory, from the fundamentals of how the English language works, how people use it, and how that knowledge can help us to communicate more effectively.

You will develop the transferable skills in analysis, interpretation, communication, argument and research needed to excel at university and after, as we help you become a confident, independent, critical and active learner able to think and thrive as you make your contribution to the world.