Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - English

The BA (Hons) English programme is a distinctive, diverse, and challenging degree that provides a strong core in English Literature while offering options in English Language. Engagement with literary, critical, and cultural theory forms the foundation of the programme, enabling students to develop a highly nuanced and sophisticated approach to the analysis of literature, language, and culture. The curriculum explores a wide range of topics, including the evolution of fantasy, the representation of crime, the legacy of Empire, cultural politics, existentialist writing, classical myth, and the 19th-century realist novel. In addition to literature modules, students can examine key areas of linguistics, including sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, and the relationship between language and identity.

The programme exposes students to literature from across the globe, studied through perspective-altering theories concerning identity, desire, cultural politics, and the nature of reality. It equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in fields such as teaching, journalism, publishing, and arts administration. The teaching team consists of experts passionate about the subject and committed to student success. Opportunities to broaden experience include work-based learning projects, study visits to cultural and heritage institutions, and lectures and seminars delivered by guest speakers.

The assessment strategy is designed to produce confident, articulate, and independent graduates, with no exams. Assessments include essays, seminar participation, and the ability to lead seminars. Significant emphasis is placed on developing research skills, with conference papers and independent projects forming a key part of the second and third years.