In the first semester, you'll take four compulsory modules which will give you a solid grounding in literature from the medieval period to our contemporary moment. You'll think about how literature in English has been shaped throughout its history by cross-cultural global exchanges and movements. 

You'll study different genres, including:

• poetry
• the essay
• the novel 

In the second semester, your core module will allow you to explore the origins of the idea of English literature as we know it today. You'll choose three further modules, including one offered by another discipline or an interdisciplinary subject.

You'll take two further core modules to build your knowledge in key areas of English literary study:

• Revolutions in English literature (Semester One)
• The Worlding of English Literature (Semester Two)

Your other modules in each semester will be optional. The choices will vary from year to year and will always include a range of topics, forms, and genres from different periods. You can replace one module in each semester with another module from the School of Humanities or the wider University, or you can begin to study for a minor in another subject. 

If you've chosen to study the year abroad option, you'll be required to take an extra preparation module during semester two. 

To be eligible for the year in employment option, you must pass Year 2 on the first attempt.

In Year 3 you can customise your degree according to your interests. You can choose from a range of optional modules or teaching creative writing in schools, which includes a voluntary work placement.

In your second semester, you'll build on the subject and methodological expertise you developed in Years 1 and 2 to independently research and write your dissertation. Your dissertation allows you to research and write about, in detail, any aspect of literary study that interests you.

With guidance from a supervisor you'll:

• formulate a research question
• explore your own literary or creative topic
• develop a distinctive argument or creative project.

If you're taking the year abroad option, you'll take your year away in Year 3, and return to do your ‘third year’ modules in your fourth year. You'll also be required to complete the 'Residence Abroad Portfolio' module. To pass this you'll need to complete a series of blogs and a final report. Both these modules are assessed on a pass/fail basis.

The year in employment requires you to complete a minimum of 30 weeks of work (not including holidays) during your third year and submit a final reflective report.  You'll return to complete your ‘third-year’ modules and dissertation in your fourth year.