English Degrees

If you have a passion for English language and literature, and its wide variety of forms, an English degree could be the perfect platform. You will be given opportunities to develop your theoretical knowledge and skills in different areas of English. You might choose to study a degree that focuses on either language or literature, or you might choose to study a degree that combines the two. Either way, you will graduate as a versatile student with a bright future.

About English

Accreditation

The accreditation of your degree will depend on the institution you choose to study at. It will also depend on your level of study, and the content of your course. At undergraduate level, you can expect to be awarded a Bachelor of Arts (BA), or a Bachelor of Science (BSc). Further study will award degrees such as Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Duration

Generally, an undergraduate degree will take three to four years to complete, depending on where you choose to study.

Your institution may offer part-time study options, which usually means that your degree will take four to six years. You may also be able to take a foundation programme, which is useful if you do not meet the entry requirements for your degree.

Fees

Annual tuition fees for UK students are capped by the UK government. For the 2019/20 academic year, they are £9,250. This is subject to change each year, and will be updated on your institution website.

The fees displayed below are an example of typical annual tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate English degrees. Actual tuition fees can be found on the institution webpages.

Typical Annual Tuition Fees

  • Undergraduate - £9,250
  • Topics Covered

    Undergraduate

    An undergraduate degree will provide you with a foundation of knowledge in the main areas of English. You could study modules on creative writing, literary studies, American literature, modernism, poetry, Shakespeare, and modern literature. The majority of undergraduate degree courses will be designed to suit students who have little experience of theoretical English, as well as challenging those who have previously studied English in more depth than core curriculum requirements. Your degree will be delivered through lectures and tutorials, and may incorporate field trips. Depending on your course, you may be able to specialise towards the end of your degree. Assessment methods will include written work, presentations, group projects, and a major research project or dissertation.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for an English degree will depend on where you choose to study. It will also be heavily influenced by the level of study for which you are applying. An undergraduate degree will require you to have a background in English, with some accepting other qualitative subjects. If you do not have a strong background in English, but can show that you are passionate about the subject area, some universities might still consider your application. You can display this through your personal statement or interview.

Typical Entry Requirements

Undergraduate

  • A Level Grades - AAA-ABB
  • UCAS Points - 144-136 UCAS points
  • Required/Desired Subjects - English Language and/or Literature, History, Sociology

Career Prospects

English graduates will find that there are many career opportunities available to them. You will have developed your critical thinking skills, and will be able to apply your knowledge to a wide range of industries and fields. If you choose to work in a role directly related to English, you might choose to work in teaching, journalism, media, or writing/editing, or publishing. If you choose to work in a role not directly related to English, you could work in business, human resource management, marketing, or civil service.