Our course opens up worlds of language, communication, and creativity. You’ll study literary works in English and in translation, and learn about the power of the written word to transform culture and society.

You’ll study modules that take you from ancient myth to #MeToo writing that will give you an extensive knowledge of literary traditions and the skills to develop your critical, creative, and analytic voice.

Interactive lecture-workshops and seminars are at the heart of the course. You’ll analyse, debate, and critique literary texts and contexts in a small-group environment that supports your learning and gives you the confidence to develop academically, professionally and personally.

Learning goes beyond the classroom – our field trips, guest lectures and festival links will broaden your horizons and offer opportunities to grow your transferable skills. We encourage collaboration with other courses, such as Creative Writing, and celebrate interdisciplinary approaches to critical and creative work.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have the confidence to move into a range of careers – from publishing and teaching to editing, writing, and the wider creative industries.

The course is taught through seminars, lectures and one-to-one tutorials. Seminars encourage lively debate and close reading of texts, while lectures engage you with historical and contextual subject knowledge.

Our modules range from Children’s and Young Adult fiction and 21st century fiction and culture to Romantic and nature writing, ecological narratives, Victorian literature, American literature, postcolonial literature, and travel writing. Class contact time is balanced with self-directed study. You’ll be guided closely as you develop as an independent reader and writer.

Assessment is by 100% coursework. You’ll write essays, reviews, portfolios and critical reflections, and creative responses – gradually building a body of work that demonstrates your knowledge and creativity.

You’ll be taught by award-winning teaching staff as well as visiting authors, editors and academics who bring real-world perspectives into the classroom and help you to develop a portfolio of transferrable skills.

Integrated foundation year

This course is available to study with an integrated foundation year – an extra, introductory year at the beginning of the full degree. If you don’t meet the stated entry requirements or you’re returning to education, it could be a great option that enables you to study this course.

As well as an introduction to your subject, it will help you to develop valuable study skills, and communication, teamwork and problem-solving techniques, giving you the confidence and skills set you need to progress.

If you’re applying to study as an international student, an integrated foundation year can also support you to improve your English language skills alongside your studies.

To apply for this course with an integrated foundation year, select the ‘With foundation year’ study type from the options at the top of this page before clicking ‘Apply’.

An English Literature degree gives you highly transferable skills that employers value: clear, effective communication, written and verbal, critical thinking, research, creativity, and the ability to engage with complex ideas.

Our graduates have gone on to careers in publishing, journalism, teaching, the arts, copywriting and communications, events management and marketing.  Many also continue their studies at postgraduate level, including teacher training and Master’s degrees.

Career preparation is part of the course. At each level, modules in professional and critical writing will help you to build your portfolio of skills towards your chosen career. You’ll also benefit from guest lecturers and our established links with the Everyman Theatre, publishers, and Cheltenham’s Literature and Poetry festivals.

You’ll graduate with more than a degree – you’ll have the professional skills and the confidence to achieve your goals and shape your future.