COURSE CURRICULUM

The Philosophy and Literature degree at Essex combines rigorous study of both disciplines while allowing flexibility to explore students’ individual interests. In the first year, students build foundational knowledge through compulsory modules such as Introduction to Philosophy and Origins and Transformations in Literature and Drama, which provide essential grounding in philosophical thought and literary analysis. Additional optional modules allow students to explore related subjects or interdisciplinary topics, while Beyond the BA: Skills for the Next Step supports career and professional development. In the second year, students deepen their engagement with literature through a selection of compulsory-with-options modules, allowing them to focus on particular genres, periods, or thematic areas. Philosophy study continues through recommended modules or elective options, and students may also take combined modules such as CS200 or CS207 alongside philosophy options to broaden analytical and research skills. The third year emphasizes specialization and advanced study, with students choosing final year literature options to develop expertise in their chosen areas, alongside philosophy modules culminating in the compulsory Philosophy Capstone. Optional modules such as CS307 or additional philosophy courses provide opportunities for interdisciplinary study and independent exploration. Across the three years, the program cultivates critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and interpretive skills, equipping graduates with the intellectual versatility to pursue careers in academia, writing, research, cultural analysis, and other fields requiring nuanced understanding of literature and philosophy.