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Philosophy and Literature

1 Study option · UndergraduateColchester Campus

Course options

2026-2027
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Course summary

Our course enables you to study topics from both literature and philosophy, and to explore issues at the cross-sections of these two exciting disciplines. We provide a wide-ranging and flexible curriculum, embracing different traditions of philosophical thought, and English literature of several genres and periods. We also focus on the interrelations between the disciplines of philosophy and literature.

You study topics including:

  • Ethics

  • Philosophy of religion

  • European philosophy (including critical theory, phenomenology, and existentialism)

  • Modernist cityscapes in literature

  • Victorian literary realism

Our School of Philosophy and Art History has been ranked in the Top 20 in the UK for research excellence (REF 2014, mainstream universities, THE 2014).

Ways to study this course

Campuses

  • Colchester Campus

Study options

  • BA (Hons) • Full-time • 3 Years

Start dates

  • 10/2026

Application codes

Course code:
QV25
Institution code:
E70

University of Essex has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.

See why these ratings were awarded
What does this TEF outcome mean?

How to apply

Application codes

Course code:
QV25
Institution code:
E70

Chat to student ambassadors

Discover what it's like to study Philosophy and Literature at University of Essex: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.

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    Heyy👋🏻, I am Amaia from the UK. I am studying MSc Physiotherapy at University of Essex (Year 2). I enjoy learning about anatomy, biomechanics, nutrition and rehabilitation. I am passionate about Sport and Exercise Science, Nutrition, Physiotherapy, and Rehabilitation. Feel free to ask me questions about uni, my course, or any other queries you may have. Looking forward to chatting with you :))

  • Delia

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    Hello there! I am Delia, a 2nd year Romanian student at the Colchester campus. I am a BSc Artificial Intelligence student and I am excited about game programming and software engineering. Alongside my degree, I study Russian with the Languages for All program, and I am a V-Team volunteer for the Animal Protection Project. I am happy to chat about studying at the University of Essex, student life in Colchester, campus life, volunteering, support at university, extracurricular activities, and answer any questions you may have!

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    I am a 29 y.o. PhD student in Art History & Theory with a background in Museum Studies (St Petersburg State University of Culture) and Curatorial Research (St Petersburg State University). I'm here to help you start your academic journey with the UoE. Ask me anything about PGR studies at Essex (especially PHAIS), financial support for international students, accommodation, life on and off campus (especially cultural events, e.g. museums, theatres, etc.) and what it's like to live in the UK/Colchester (e.g. what's there for people from my (and probably yours!) part of the globe. Fun facts about me: travelled to 40+ countries; have a cute little chinchilla named Pyshka🍩; have learnt that all the stereotypes about British weather are true—but it still rains more in St Petersburg, so I’m fine. 🥲

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    I wasn't always sure of what I wanted to do at university, but my current course is perfect for me. I am happy to advise if you find yourself feeling the same way. Feel free to talk to me about clubs, societies and extracurricular activities.

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    Hi, I am Charlotte, a third year politics with human rights student. I am also a member of the Student Union trustee board and a student representative alongside my studies, so I am very immersed in the student life here and more than happy to answer any and all questions you may have. I love to go out and I’m always attending the nightlife events on campus (maybe a little too much)! I am currently treasurer for the sustainable students society so if there’s anything you would be interested to know about societies, I can always let you know. I’m very friendly and bubbly so don’t be afraid to ask anything, no questions are silly.

  • Callum

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    I am a final-year student at the University of Essex's Colchester campus, so I have had a very long time here to come to know a lot of things about this place. Over my three years, I have had a broad range of experiences that university has to offer, from getting involved in sports and societies, to using the careers services, to completing a paid internship in a subject related to my degree. Applying to university, I knew that I wanted to study modern languages, but didn't study a language at A-Level, which definitely threw a spanner into a lot of things. As a 16/17 year old, I just didn't think that far ahead in my life- which is normal. I am living proof that, to an extent, this does not need to be the end of your plans to go to uni. As for me as an individual, I am interested in art and music- which I also make, and I also enjoy hiking, cycling and swimming on occassion. I'm also on the autistic spectrum. After graduating this year, my plan is to go and do a year working in a Spanish school, and then hopefully come back home and do a course on TEFL, all of which the academic staff are supporting me to do.

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    Hi, I’m Ann, a third year biomedical student with a keen interest in cancer biology. I plan to continue my studies in the future and am happy to share my experiences and help fellow students navigate university life, from academics to beyond!

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    Hey, I’m a second-year LLB Law student studying at Essex. I’m interested in Corporate law. When I’m not drowning in cases, Im probably listening to music, watching k dramas, or travelling around the world or probably sleeping. I’d be happy to answer any questions. Feel free to ask me anything about life at Essex - from studying Law, living on campus, best study places or just what the food’s like here. I’m happy to chat!!

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    Hello, my name is Cayleigh, I am a master's student studying Speech and Language Therapy and wish to specialise in paediatrics. My previous degree was a BEd in Primary Education. I am also a qualified teacher. Feel free to ask me any questions about my course, student life, or campus life!
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Historical entry grades data BETA

This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.

Data from:
This course and 22 other English studies courses
Date range:
2022-2024

Grades held by accepted students

For University of Essex, the top and bottom 5% of student grades have been removed from these calculations. This change helps to remove any extraordinary circumstances that could impact the data. Learn more here .
BCC Most common
  1. AAB
  2. Highest grades
  3. CDD
  4. Lowest grades

Offer rate for UK school & college leavers

99% Students aged 17/18 who applied to this course were offered a place.

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See how students with your grades have been accepted onto this course in the past.

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