COURSE CURRICULUM

The English and Music BA offers a varied and integrated curriculum that combines literary study with musical practice and research. In Year 1, students build foundations in both subjects through modules that introduce key critical approaches to literature, develop writing and communication skills, explore music in social and cultural contexts, and examine musical materials from global traditions. A wide range of optional modules allows exploration of performance, composition, music technology, popular music, fiction, drama and poetry. In Year 2, the course deepens interdisciplinary understanding through compulsory modules that examine literature’s relationships with nature, culture and the body, while students develop diverse research methods in music, from musicology to creative and empirical approaches. A broad selection of optional modules in English and Music enables students to tailor the degree to interests spanning historical literature, contemporary writing, performance, music psychology, politics, technology and composition. In the final year, students undertake an independent research project in either discipline, supported by workshops and supervision. Additional optional modules in advanced literary study, musical analysis, performance, composition and themed cultural topics allow students to specialise further. Across all years, the degree encourages creativity, critical thinking and practical engagement with both literature and music.