In your first semester, you’ll take 4 compulsory modules. These modules will give you solid grounding in the literary and historical aspects of your degree. 

You’ll consider how English literature has evolved throughout history from cross-cultural global exchanges, with a focus on the history of the novel as a literary form. You’ll also learn how to think about history from a global perspective, from the ancient world to now.

In semester 2, you’ll gain skills in analysing non-textual historical sources, such as buildings, artefacts, images, and visual sources. You can select three optional modules from our fascinating range.

In semester 1, you’ll take one core module, ‘Revolutions in English Literature’. This will build your knowledge in key areas of English literary study.

The rest of your modules each semester will be optional. There are different choices each year, which include various historical periods, subjects, literary forms, genres, and even creative writing possibilities in English.

You can replace one module in each semester with another one from the School of Humanities or the wider University. Or you can study for a minor in another subject. 

If you choose to study abroad for a year, you’ll need to take an extra preparation module during semester 2. 

In year 3, you can customise your degree according to your interests.

Choose from a variety of optional history and English modules. Some examples include:

• Far Right history
• the East India Company
• Holocaust literature
• the Origins of the Climate Crisis

You can also choose creative writing options, such as teaching creative writing in schools through a voluntary work placement.

In your second semester, you’ll build on your subject and methodological expertise from years 1 and 2 to conduct your own research and write your dissertation in English or History. This will allow you to explore any aspect of literature or history that interests you, including creative writing. Alternatively, you can combine your literary and historical interests.

With the help of a supervisor, you’ll:

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

If you choose the ‘Year Abroad’ option, you’ll spend your third year away, then return to complete your final-year modules in year 4. You’ll also need to do the ‘Residence Abroad Portfolio’ module. To pass this, you must complete a series of blogs and a final report. The grading for these modules is a pass or fail.

For your year in employment, you must complete at least 30 weeks of work (excluding holidays) during year 3 and submit a final reflective report. You’ll return to complete your final-year modules and dissertation in year 4.