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English Literature BA

School of English

Cultivate a deep understanding and true love of literature and creative arts as you explore the breadth, depth and history of literary art, from Old English to the 21st century. Explore film, theatre and creative writing and engage with diverse texts from all over the world.

  • A Levels
    AAB
  • UCAS code
    Q306
  • Duration
    3 years
  • Start date
    September
  • Course fee
  • Funding available
  • Optional placement year
  • Study abroad

Explore this course:

    Course description

    Why study this course?

    Learn from the experts

    You’ll be taught by a wide range of subject specialists whose world-leading (REF 2021) research is woven throughout their teaching, ensuring your learning sits at the cutting edge of your discipline. We're home to numerous research centres including the Centre for Poetry and Poetics which hosts regular readings and talks.

    Stand out from the crowd

    During your time with us you'll become an adept researcher, persuasive writer, critical thinker and digital media creator. These are the skills that will set you apart after graduation.

    Become a strong communicator

    As you grow your understanding of the written word, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your own writing, and learn to present your work to a wide range of different audiences.

    Get ahead with work experience

    Our work placements with local and national companies can enhance your learning, build relationships with employers and give you a head start on your career journey.

    A lecturer teaching at the front of a lecture theatre

    Unlock the study of English literary cultures in all their forms and understand how literature shapes the human experience.

    From the very first semester we'll support you to develop as a scholar. You’ll begin with degree-level study skills, and build up to complex critical and theoretical approaches.

    Throughout your degree you’ll be engaged in focused, in-depth study with tutors who are experts in their field.

    Choose from a wide range of periods, authors, genres and literary movements, whilst following a chronological thread beginning with a study of Renaissance literature and leading you through to the present day.

    You will leave us an effective communicator, ready for an exciting future. Our graduates have pursued careers in publishing, digital communications, journalism, politics and the creative industries – where your critical thinking and creative skills are coveted.

    A group of students listening to a lecture, one is typing on their laptop.

    Modules

    A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    You’ll also be able to choose from a range of optional modules that sit outside of your subject, giving you the opportunity to broaden your horizons and try something new.

    Title: English Literature BA course structure 2025
    UCAS code: Q306
    Years: 2025
    First year

    In your first year, all students take the core module Renaissance to Revolution worth 40 credits. The remaining 80 credits can be used on modules from the list of optional English modules listed below, all worth 20 credits.

    Core modules:

    Renaissance to Revolution

    This module surveys the English drama, poetry, and prose from the sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. We will look at different genres including comedy, tragedy,lyric, prose fiction, the novel, epic, and prose polemic in the works of writers such as Aphra Behn, Frances Burney, John Donne, Oloudah Equiano, Aemelia Lanyer, Ben Jonson, Christopher Marlowe, John Milton and Alexander Pope. The texts studied will be related to critical methods that help us understand the relationships between literature and the culture, society, and politics of the period in which it was produced.

    40 credits

    Optional modules:

    Early Englishes

    This module is of particular interest to anyone who wants to know more about the first 1000 years of English language and literature. Early Englishes works backward over a whole millennium of English, 1600 to 600. Each week's lectures and seminar focus on one century and one text representative of that century (for example, Margery Kempe's Book, Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, and Beowulf). We will use a variety of techniques - literary, linguistic, anthropological, cultural-historical - to analyse each text, thereby opening up discussion of issues that preoccupied the English of the time, from glorious monster-slaying to the first expressions of love and desire, from religious devotion to comedy, from the power of insults to the status of English. We will investigate international influences on English language and literature, explore medieval worldviews and how they might differ from modern ones, and query what it means when we say something is medieval. No prior knowledge of Old or Middle English is necessary; students will be given the opportunity to examine texts in the original language but where necessary translations will be provided.

    20 credits
    Foundations in Literary Study: Biblical and Classical Sources in English Literature

    The Bible, Greek and Roman mythology, represent some of the central sources for European literary imaginations. In this module you will explore the range of literature indebted to biblical and classical literature, themes, and characters. Featuring a range of lecturers from across the School of English, the module will help you learn to think critically about biblical and classical themes such as divine destruction, love, gender, homecoming, colonialism, nostalgia, and empire, and read a variety of authors, from Amelia Lanyer and Shakespeare to Derek Walcott and Margaret Atwood. When we understand the ways in which biblical and classical writers shaped their narratives, and how creative authors revised, resisted or radicalised their themes, we have several important keys to unlock crucial facets of English literary tradition.

    20 credits
    Contemporary Literature

    This module introduces you to a diverse range of texts in English (prose, poetry, and film) with a focus on texts published since 2000. Texts will be chosen to provoke thinking and debate on urgent and controversial topics that might include: globalisation and neoliberalism; ecology and animal lives; artificial intelligence and the posthuman; political activism and social justice; migration and displacement; state violence and armed conflict. We will discuss formally and conceptually challenging works, raise ethical and philosophical questions and begin to discover how current critical and theoretical approaches can help us to engage with contemporary texts.

    20 credits
    Studying Theatre: A History of Dramatic Texts in Performance

    Ranging chronologically from classical to contemporary examples, this module aims to turn an interest in drama and theatre-going into a deeper appreciation of the ways in which traditions of playwriting, acting, design and performance have shaped theatre's development over the centuries. Each week you will study a particular play and the contexts that informed its first performances and its theatrical afterlife. Engaging with contrasting texts and productions will build your knowledge of dramatic genres and styles, the relationship between performance and politics, the representation on page and stage of racial and gendered identities, and the roles and responsibilities of audiences. We will approach theatre as a social practice and an artistic discipline, exploring production videos and related materials alongside study of the script, and experimenting with creative exercises in writing, directing and stage design. This module develops skills in analysing diverse texts and forms whilst also revealing the distinctive qualities and capabilities of drama as a literary genre.

    20 credits
    Darwin, Marx, Freud

    This course is structured around the writings of Darwin, Marx, Freud. We will consider selections from all three philosophers' writings, such as, for example, Darwin's The Origin of Species; cover key concepts from Marx's work—commodity fetishism; alienation—and investigate Freud's philosophy of the subject through selected readings from his writings. We will dismantle cultural prejudice and engage with, and in, revolutionary thinking. This course will prepare you for modules like Critical and Literary Thought but, most importantly, it will help you become critical, potentially revolutionary, thinkers.

    20 credits
    Exploring Literary Language

    This module explores the language of literary texts. We will look at how different literary styles create particular effects and describe these styles and effects using linguistics. The course aims to provide students interested in English literature with a practical introduction to language, and to provide students interested in language with experience of applying linguistic analysis to literary texts. The emphasis is on a hands-on approach, and topics covered will include sentence structure, register, narrative structure, conversation analysis (with reference to drama and dialogue) and point of view in narrative fiction. The texts studied will be predominantly literary and twentieth century, and will include extracts from novels, plays, poetry and short stories.

    20 credits
    Hybrid Forms? Comedy and Tragedy

    This module gives you the opportunity to study developments in comedy and tragedy from classical antiquity to the present day. This focus on genre enables you to take a broadly comparative approach, setting, for instance, works of classical antiquity alongside those of the early modern, modern, and contemporary worlds. As such, the module equips you to draw connections between periods studied separately at different points of your degree and between disparate forms, e.g. drama and the novel. Over the course of this module we will consider questions such as: what is genre, and why is it important? How does genre reflect or respond to historical change? Is there any such thing as a 'pure' genre or is hybridization a defining feature of genre itself? We will answer these questions by reading texts by authors such as Angela Carter, Noel Coward, Plautus, Shakespeare, Sophocles, and Michaela Coel.

    20 credits
    Introduction to Cinema

    This module offers an introduction to film analysis, film theory and film history based on a global overview of cinema from a comprehensive time period. You will watch and analyse approximately ten set films (with suggested further viewing) including key films from historic and contemporary cinemas from across the world, potentially encompassing Britain, Europe, America, Australia and Asia. The module has incorporated a diverse selection of films including Bicycle Thieves (Vittoria De Sica, 1948, Italy), Do The Right Thing (Spike Lee, 1989, US), The 400 Blows (Francois Truffaut, 1959, France) , Parasite (Bong Joon Ho, 2019, South Korea) and The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (Stephan Elliot, 1994, Australia). You will learn about genre, realism, national cinema, narrative, style, technique and representation of identity, among other topics. The subject of identity, for example, enables the exploration of personal, national, ethnic, gendered and queer identities through cinematic representation. The module aims to enable you to closely analyse cinematic material, engage with film theory and apply it in your analysis, identify the tools of cinematic technique in analysis and think critically and independently. It is intended as a gateway to a new cinematic language and mode of analysis/close reading.

    20 credits
    History of English

    What is English? Taking this question as a point of departure, this module introduces students to the exceptionally dynamic linguistic history of English(es). Changing linguistic forms and functions are contextualized within their historical moment, and language external factors such as language contact, imperialism and racism are also discussed as they pertain to periods of English. To be clear: this is not just a module about old forms of language (although there is plenty of that!) - it's about gaining historical linguistic perspective on current Englishes (including related Creoles) and their place within a much bigger story.

    20 credits
    Introduction to Creative Writing

    The aim of this unit is to help you to develop your expressive and technical skills in writing poetry and prose and to improve your abilities as an editor and critic of your own and other people's writing. You will be guided in the production of new work and encouraged to develop an analytical awareness of both the craft elements and the wider cultural and theoretical contexts of writing. This module explores poetic and prose techniques for creating new poems and narrative techniques for generating some prose work through the critical study of published examples, imaginative exercises, discussion and feedback on your own writing. This exploration will help you develop your own creative work while sharpening critical appreciation of published poetry and modern and contemporary fiction. The course is designed to give you the experience of being workshopped as well as to establish basic creative writing techniques at Level 1 in preparation for the challenges of Creative Writing Level 2 and/or 3.

    20 credits

    Try a new subject:

    The flexible structure of your first year at Sheffield means that you also have the chance to experience modules from outside of English - you can choose up to 40 credits of modules from a list approved by the Faculty of Arts and Humanities. A final guided module list is made available to new students when you select your modules as part of registration.

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we will inform students and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Learning and assessment

    Learning

    You'll learn through a mix of lectures and group discussions (seminars). We believe seminars are the best way to stimulate discussion and debate, ensuring every student has the opportunity to speak.

    You'll be assigned an academic tutor, who will be on hand to support you through your studies with regular one-to-one catch-ups.

    You're also welcome to meet with any of our academic staff if you have any questions.

    We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 access to our online library service.

    Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over 1.3 million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

    Learning support facilities and library opening hours

    Assessment

    Alongside writing essays, we also use a wide range of innovative assessments that are designed to help you build a well-rounded skill set, including designing websites, writing blog posts, delivering presentations and working with publishing software.

    Programme specification

    This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.

    Find programme specification for this course

    Entry requirements

    With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.

    Standard offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAB

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB + B in the EPQ
    International Baccalaureate
    34
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in a relevant subject
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + A at A Level
    Scottish Highers
    AAAAB
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AA
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction and 9 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • Evidence of interest in literature, demonstrated through the personal statement is also required

    Access Sheffield offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    ABB

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB + B in the EPQ
    International Baccalaureate
    33
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDM in a relevant subject
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + B at A Level
    Scottish Highers
    AAABB
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AB
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction and 15 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • Evidence of interest in literature, demonstrated through the personal statement is also required

    English language requirements

    You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

    Pathway programme for international students

    If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an International Foundation Year in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school/department.

    Graduate careers

    Whatever your chosen career path after university, the skills that you develop during your time with us make you sought after by employers and prepare you to enter the world of work.

    Our graduates have gone on to hold roles such as:

    • theatre director
    • speech-to-text editor
    • media officer
    • copywriters
    • academic publishing consultant
    • senior parliamentary advisor 

    Our graduates also go on to work for companies such as:

    • BBC
    • Boots UK
    • Crown Prosecution Service
    • Good Things Foundation
    • British Heart Foundation
    • House of Commons
    • NSPCC
    • Arts Council England

    Read our alumni stories

    School of English

    Creative, critical, community minded and collaborative, the School of English at the University of Sheffield is one of the largest English departments in the UK.

    We're a research-intensive school with an international perspective on English studies. 90% of our research is rated as world-leading (REF 2021).

    During your time with us, you’ll have the opportunity to join a vibrant student community and get involved in hundreds of societies, including our English Society.

    The School of English is based in the Jessop West building at the heart of the university campus, close to the Diamond and the Information Commons. We share the Jessop West Building with the School of History, Philosophy and Digital Humanities and the School of Languages and Cultures.

    Facilities

    Our students get to make the most of the University's facilities across campus. Explore some of the teaching, library and social spaces you'll be able to visit as an arts and humanities student.

    School of English

    University rankings

      Number one in the Russell Group
    National Student Survey 2024 (based on aggregate responses)

      92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
    Research Excellence Framework 2021

      University of the Year and best for Student Life
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024

      Number one Students' Union in the UK
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

      Number one for Students' Union
    StudentCrowd 2024 University Awards

      A top 20 university targeted by employers
    The Graduate Market in 2024, High Fliers report

      A top-100 university: 12th in the UK and 98th in the world
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025

    Fees and funding

    Fees

    Additional costs

    The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

    Examples of what’s included and excluded

    Funding your study

    Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

    Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

    Placements and study abroad

    Placements

    You may have the opportunity to add an optional placement year as part of your course, converting the three-year course to a four-year Degree with Placement Year. 

    A placement year will help you to:

    • gain an insight into possible careers
    • develop a range of transferable skills
    • build a professional network
    • get a feel for what you do and don’t like doing
    • add valuable work experience to your CV
    • gain experience of applying for jobs and interview practice
    • apply elements of academic learning in the workplace

    Many of our students complete internships to help them develop their skills and get valuable workplace experience. Our dedicated faculty careers team supports you to source these opportunities.

    Previous internship opportunities have included working with companies in a variety of sectors, such as multimedia, journalism, PR and events, community projects, charity/non-profit.

    Arts and humanities placements and internships

    Study abroad

    You can apply to extend this course with a year abroad, usually studying abroad between the second and third year at Sheffield.

    We have over 250 university partners worldwide. Popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong.

    Visit

    University open days

    We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

    Open days: book your place

    Subject tasters

    If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

    Upcoming taster sessions

    Offer holder days

    If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

    Campus tours

    Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

    Campus tour: book your place

    Events for mature students

    Mature students can apply directly to our courses. We also offer degrees with a foundation year for mature students who are returning to education. We'd love to meet you at one of our events, open days, taster workshops or other events.

    Lifelong learning events for mature students

    Apply

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    Contact us

    Start a conversation with us – you can get in touch by email, telephone or online chat.

    Contacts for prospective students

    School of English

    The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

    2025-2026

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    Cultivate a deep understanding and true love of literature and creative arts as you explore the breadth, depth and history of literary art, from Old English to the 21st century. Explore film, theatre and creative writing and engage with diverse texts from all over the world.

    No No Yes