COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA English degree offers a flexible and engaging curriculum designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and creative expression. In the first year, students focus on foundational subjects such as writing in history, introduction to drama, and narrative forms, alongside the study of poetry and social inequalities, with optional modules exploring African American culture, creative writing, and film. In the second year, students expand their understanding of literature across periods and genres, choosing from modules on Victorian literature, Stuart-era texts, modernisms, contemporary literature, screen cultures, and thematic studies such as queer identities, American culture, and human-animal relationships. The third year culminates in a compulsory dissertation, allowing students to undertake an independent research project that consolidates their learning. Additionally, a wide range of optional modules in the final year enables students to further specialise, including studies of American culture, modern poetry, medicine in literature, women’s writing, neo-Victorian literature, Shakespeare, and creative publishing. Throughout the degree, students can participate in university-wide language programs, enhancing their communication skills and cultural awareness. This structure provides a stimulating, research-informed learning environment, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations while developing the versatility and expertise needed for careers in writing, media, teaching, research, and related fields.