BA (Hons) English Literature
Course
options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- Q300
- Typical Offer
- AAB
- Contextual Offer
- BBB
- Course Length
- 3 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Do you feel excited when you see the words ‘Chapter One’? Do you want to discover how storytelling has shaped the world from ancient times to the modern day? Do you want to develop confidence in expressing your ideas in bold and inventive ways? Then come and join our English Literature degree at UEA: the place where literature lives.
Our English Literature course is based in UEA’s vibrant School of Literature, Drama and Creative Writing (you can follow our activities on Instagram!). This degree is highly flexible, letting you follow your own literary interests. You'll also gain a firm grounding in writing from across time, countries, and genres. Our tutors have a rich range of literary specialisms, from the medieval to the present day. They will help you to deepen your understanding of authors and books you already know and love. They'll also inspire you to explore exciting new texts and writers you've never heard of before.
Our BA English Literature modules are assessed through 100% coursework. Our passionate and expert lecturers will help you cultivate your critical writing and analysis. In seminars, you'll take part in friendly group discussions. Outside the classroom, guided learning exercises will support your studies. You'll build up a new understanding of how to work with words: both other people's and your own.
Your base will be the beautiful and historic city of Norwich, famous as the 'City of Stories'. Norwich has been home to ground-breaking writers and readers for centuries. From Julian of Norwich – the first woman to write a book in English – to award-winning UEA alumni like Ian McEwan. As an English Literature student, you'll immerse yourself in this thriving literary scene. You'll have access to unique resources like UEA's British Archive for Contemporary Writing. You'll be able to go to literary events or publishing fairs at the world-renowned National Centre for Writing. It's no wonder Norwich became England's first UNESCO City of Literature!
Our English Literature degree will make you a skilful reader. It'll make you a persuasive and compelling communicator. You'll have countless opportunities to develop your career aspirations alongside your degree. You might join UEA's award-winning student newspaper, Concrete. Or get involved with the student-led publishing imprint, Eggbox. You can attend our annual careers event, 'Working With Words'. You'll graduate ready to take the skills you've learned into a whole range of fulfilling careers. Recent graduates have succeeded in industries including publishing, journalism, teaching, heritage and marketing.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
You’ll have the option to apply to study abroad for one semester of your second year. Studying abroad is a wonderfully enriching life experience – you'll develop confidence and adaptability and will deepen your understanding of English literature while learning about another culture. At UEA, you'll also be surrounded by the many students we welcome from around the world to study with us.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you’ll be exposed to a huge variety of literature through a series of largely compulsory modules. These allow you to sharpen your skills in literary analysis, including in small group seminars. You’ll dive into contemporary writing by authors such as Terrance Hayes or Inua Ellams, which speaks urgently to important issues facing us in the world today. You’ll immerse yourself in the mythical past, as you uncover the astonishing world of Homer’s The Odyssey and discover how this ancient epic has inspired authors across place and time. You’ll be guided through a range of exciting texts from literary history, making you a confident and inspired reader of literature from all periods. You’ll explore the global history of English, from its origins in multilingual medieval society to the extraordinary literatures which are still being forged today from the legacies of colonialism and its resistance. Additionally, you’ll investigate how literary critics have constructed arguments from the classical world to the present, discovering the many forms in which critics write today. Finally – benefiting from UEA’s world-renowned excellence in creative writing – you might decide to experiment with creative-critical writing. Or you might choose to step outside English and take a module from another humanities discipline, such as politics, history or languages.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
Your academic year will be split into two semesters: Autumn and Spring. In your first year, you’ll take three modules in each semester, with between seven and nine hours of contact time per week. You’ll enjoy compelling lectures given by our literary critics, packed with new ideas to help frame your reading. In two-hour seminars, you’ll learn through lively discussion with your fellow students, guided by your seminar leader. You'll benefit from small-group teaching, allowing you to settle into the classroom in a comfortable and inviting setting. You can also meet your tutors one-on-one, and you'll have an academic adviser to support you through your whole English Literature degree with everything from choice of modules to launching your career.
If you’d like to get a sense of what sorts of books you might read in your first year, take a look at our list of suggested (but entirely optional) reading for incoming Literature students!
Independent Learning
You’ll read extraordinary books, with a framework of guided tasks provided by your lecturers to help you get the most out of them. You'll explore the library, discovering a wealth of new resources to enrich your studies. You might discover extra-curricular activities and student societies where you’ll meet like-minded booklovers who’ll enjoy nothing more than discussing reading with you. You'll finish the year equipped with the skills you need to make the most of your literary journey.
Assessment
Assessment
Throughout your degree, all modules in English Literature have no exams – we believe you express your ideas best in written coursework (usually one or two pieces per module) which you can carefully craft. You'll develop renewed enthusiasm for writing academic essays, but you’ll also have the chance to express your thinking in a diverse variety of forms, from reviews to personal reflective writing. The only way you might take an exam is if you choose specific optional modules outside English literature in other disciplines. In practice, most of our students are assessed by 100% written coursework.
Feedback
To prepare for coursework, you'll receive feedback on pieces of 'formative' work from your tutors, for example in one-to-one tutorials. Feedback on assessed work will be returned within 20 working days (after it has been carefully marked and moderated). As your first year does not count toward your overall degree result, it's the perfect opportunity to experiment and take risks.
Structure
After your first year, there are no compulsory modules. You’ll really start to make the English Literature course your own. In your second year, you’ll choose from a range of modules which together cover the sweep of English literary history – and others which invite you to explore literatures from across the globe. You’ll also select from a separate range of modules designed to help you to develop your own sense of yourself as a writer. You can get a taste of the ways you might use your literary training in your career after your degree with modules dedicated to exploring professions in the creative industries. You can continue to experiment with our cutting-edge creative-critical modules which fuse the writing of criticism with creative experimentation. If you wish, you can try your hand at creative writing, or take a module with an interdisciplinary focus – this is a chance to continue your exploration of other subjects, from history to politics, languages, or American studies, or to try one of these fields out for the first time.
You’ll have a wide range of choice in what you study in your second and third years. To ensure you gain a real understanding of the history of English literature, you must take at least three modules in literature written before 1789 (at least two of them in your second year). Here you might end up encountering the romances and fables of the Middle Ages, the women who broke with convention to write poetry in the 17th century, or the extraordinary plays of Shakespeare. There is so much to discover in these rich literary traditions.
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 80, Max Credits: 100)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
You’ll choose six modules to take during your second year: three in the Autumn semester and three in the Spring, with between seven and nine contact hours per week. Lectures and two-hour seminars will immerse you in particular eras of literature, while you might also take seminars which let you explore the literary professions of journalism or publishing (using our state-of-the-art Media Suite), or a creative writing workshop. You might take a short-term placement as part of a Humanities-wide module and get real-world experience of using the skills you’re developing in your degree. And you'll continue to benefit from the support of your academic adviser.
Independent Learning
You'll continue be guided by your tutors through regular exercises designed to help you focus your reading and writing outside of the seminar room. You’ll deepen your command of the craft of literary criticism and discover where your true literary passions lie. You'll gain the confidence to take more risks in your academic work, finishing the year with a real sense of how your love of literature will underpin your career.
Assessment
Assessment
You'll continue to submit coursework for all your literature modules, taking your essay writing to new heights (in projects of around 2500 words) and becoming increasingly daring in your work. While essay writing remains the cornerstone of your degree work, you might also submit podcasts or videos or exhibition plans, or experiment with creative criticism, for instance by writing a short story which reveals your critical understanding of that form. You may take one module from another discipline this year, which might lead you to take an exam, but in practice the vast majority of our students are assessed entirely by written coursework.
Feedback
You'll continue to have the support and feedback of your tutors, which your academic adviser can help you incorporate into your work. As your marks begin to count toward your final degree classification, you might draw on the support offered by our Learning Enhancement Team (who are there to help with everything from study skills to academic writing).
Structure
In your third year, you’ll choose from a dazzling array of specialist modules related to the research expertise of our staff. Modules are carefully ordered into two option ranges to give you the chance to study literature in specific historical contexts and to explore literary genres or cutting-edge theoretical concepts. Some possible topics include feminist writing, banned books, Japanese fiction, medieval monsters, Renaissance drama, and children’s literature. This is a chance to deepen your knowledge of a period, genre or concept that you’ve encountered before, or to try out something new and expand your literary horizons even further. You might also decide to undertake an optional dissertation: an exciting opportunity to work one-to-one with a tutor on a bespoke topic of your choice.
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 60, Max Credits: 120)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 60)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
In your third year, you’ll select two modules in each semester, with a total of six hours contact time per week. This means you have the chance to explore cutting-edge literary topics in depth, in our three-hour seminars taught by a subject-specialist. If you wish, you may pursue a dissertation as one of your module choices, working one-on-one with a literary critic on a topic of your choice. If you took the introduction to creative writing last year, you might choose a creative writing workshop, shaping your writing under the guidance of a published writer.
Independent Learning
While retaining the support and guidance of your seminar leaders, you'll now bring together all the skills and confidence you've developed in independent research and critical writing, as you master the fields of literary study that have come to matter the most to you.
Assessment
Assessment
You'll continue to be assessed by 100% written coursework, perfecting the craft of essay writing in more substantial and independently conceived projects (3500-5000 words), or choosing to embark on an 8000-word dissertation on a topic of your choice. If you wish, you might continue to experiment with the forms in which you express your critical ideas, for instance by testing out the new boundary-defying genre of ‘auto-fiction’. Whatever form your writing takes, you'll have developed confidence to express yourself in ways you might not have thought possible before the degree began.
Feedback
You’ll receive detailed and focused feedback to help hone your abilities even further, enabling you to graduate at the end of your final year with highly developed skills in writing and argument which are hugely valued by employers.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB including English Literature or one of the subjects listed below.
Contextual: BBB including English Literature or one of the subjects listed below:
English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, Psychology or Law.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDD plus A-Level grade B in English Literature or one of the subjects listed below.
Contextual: DDM plus A-Level grade B in English Literature or one of the subjects listed below:
English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, Psychology or Law.
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Diploma: DD plus B at A-Level in English Literature or one of the above subjects.
Contextual: DD plus C at A Level in English Literature or one of the above subjects.
Extended Certificate: D plus AB at A-Level including English Literature or one of the above subjects.
Contextual: D plus BB at A Level including English Literature or one of the above subjects.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Access to HE Diploma
Access to Humanities and Social Sciences Pathway. Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3.
T levels
Not accepted
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as: BA English Literature with a Foundation Year
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including 5 in HL English, History, Global Politics or Psychology.
Irish Leaving Certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including English Literature or one of the following subjects: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, Psychology or Law.
Scottish Highers
AAAAA including English Literature, or one of the following subjects: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, Psychology or Law.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BBC, including English Literature or one of the following subjects: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, Psychology or Law.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB including English Literature or one of the subjects listed below:English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, Psychology or Law.
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall including 5 in HL English, History, Global Politics or Psychology.
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
On graduating from your English Literature degree, you’ll be uniquely poised as a nimble thinker, a skilled reader and an excellent communicator. You might go on to work in the arts, media, publishing, politics, charities and NGOs, teaching or the commercial sector. Or you could go into marketing, like our former student Rebecca. You’ll be equipped with sought-after skills of critical reading, independence, time management, teamwork, and many more. You’ll also be well placed to study for a postgraduate degree.
Our Careers Service is here to support you in launching your career by advising with CV writing, internships, and much more. Every year we run an event, Working with Words, which gives current students the chance to meet and hear from successful UEA alumni from across the creative industries. UEA has its own in-house student publishing project, Egg Box, along with many other exciting initiatives that give you opportunities to turn your love of literature into a foundation for your future career.
Careers
Examples of careers you could enter include:
- Journalism
- Publishing
- Media
- Marketing
- Heritage and Museums
- Teaching
Discover more on our Careers webpages.