English Literature, BA

Course content

Unlike the BA English Language and Literature, this programme allows you to focus entirely on literature in English. As a result, in your first year you'll study core modules exploring the main genres of poetry, drama and prose and introducing you to literary theory and criticism. You'll also be able to choose discovery modules from subjects across the University.

In the following year, you'll choose from core modules focusing on different historical periods to give you a sense of how literature has evolved over time. You'll also choose from a wide range of optional modules, from medieval Scandinavian sagas and Arthurian legends to African literature, creative writing and children's literature.

This balanced approach will continue into your final year, when you'll choose from further period-based core modules alongside options such as James Joyce, post-apartheid narratives and Old English Literature. You'll also showcase the skills you've acquired throughout your degree when you complete an independently researched dissertation on a literary topic of your choice.

Course structure

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

Year 1

Follow the links to the Programme Catalogue for more example optional modules.

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: AAA including English (Language, Literature or Language and Literature) and not including General Studies or Critical Thinking.

  • Career opportunities

    A degree in English equips you with a range of transferable skills in addition to your subject knowledge.

    You'll be an excellent communicator who can present and defend your views clearly, whether verbally or in writing, and be confident working independently or in a group. You'll have strong organisational and time management skills from managing your own workload. Crucially, you'll be able to conduct thorough research, interpret and analyse complex information and then think critically about what you find to draw your own conclusions.

    All of these qualities are very attractive to employers, and our graduates have gone on to find success in diverse careers within and beyond the arts. They include the creative industries, advertising and marketing, education, journalism, law, publishing, radio and television as well as administration, business and finance, charity work, the civil service, management, management consultancy and social welfare. Many have also progressed to 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.