English and Comparative Literature, BA

Course content

In your first year, you'll choose modules across the spectrum of poetry, prose and drama in English as well as core modules introducing you to key areas of comparative literature.

In your second year you take a core module on Reception, Transmission and Translation, which introduces you to the theory and practice of global literary circulation and is partly assessed through the co-production of an edited anthology. You will also choose from a wide range of optional modules from the Schools of English and Languages, Cultures and Societies.

In your third year, you'll apply the critical and research skills you've developed to your dissertation, where you'll independently research a topic which cuts across English and literature from other cultures - the myth of Odysseus from Homer to Derek Walcott, for example, or the ways in which foreign-language detective fiction has been received in the English-speaking world.

You'll also study optional modules covering an array of topics, such as different periods of English literature, Chinese theatre, Dante or Latin American culture among others.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: AAB including A in English excluding General Studies and Critical Thinking.

  • Career opportunities

    English and Comparative Literature graduates develop a wide range of transferable skills that really appeal to employers.

    You'll have highly developed communication skills, and the ability to appreciate cultures outside of your own. You'll be independent and self-motivated, as well as a confident researcher who can think analytically about what they find. You'll also have the organisational and time management skills that come from studying two subjects as part of a Joint Honours programme.

    Leeds English graduates have succeeded in diverse careers such as publishing, business and finance, law, advertising and marketing, journalism, the civil service, education and the charity sector. Many have also gone onto postgraduate study.

    Careers support

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    Study abroad

    On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. The University has partnerships with more than 400 universities worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

    Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

    Work placements

    Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

    Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.