English Literature, BA (Hons)

Study English Literature and develop skills highly valued by employers

Photograph of students enjoying their studies in the library

Course Overview

At Swansea, studying English Literature means exploring ideas that matter, both past and present - making you a part of critical cultural work that matters!

Our degree brings the study of literature into the present by exploring texts within their cultural and historical frameworks and thinking about what they mean for the world we live in today In a fast-changing job market, employers value graduates who are equipped to face challenges, can analyse and write content clearly, and can communicate persuasively. Our degree will help you build those skills.

Throughout this programme you will:

  • Experience literary ‘travel’ across time and place by exploring texts in English written in local and global contexts, from the medieval period to now.
  • Explore the most pressing cultural questions through literary texts: about identity, the environmental crisis, gender, race and ethnicity, and nationhood
  • Connect with experts. Work with publishing experts, cultural bodies, literary prize panels, and industry leaders to help shape our literary landscape.
  • Acquire skills in critical thinking, reading for meaning, writing for purpose, and creative solutions: which are all vital for the modern job market.
  • Offer employers a diverse and critical perspective.
  • Produce professional, real-world, creative and critical applications.
  • Build a career with impact. Prepare for exciting roles in publishing, the creative and cultural industries, writing / authorship, journalism, communications and PR, and literary festival management, as critics, screenwriters, and content generators.

With the cultural and creative industries now among the fastest-growing global sectors, now is a time to be a part of the literary future!

Why English Literature at Swansea?

Based on our stunning Singleton Park campus, in parkland overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the Gower Peninsula;

English Literature at Swansea is ranked:

  • 11th in the UK for Research Impact (REF 2021)
  • Top 15 in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction (Guardian University Guide 2026)
  • Top 101-150 in the World (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)

Our academic staff are internationally recognised for their research. You will learn from experienced, established writers whose work has been widely published, broadcast and performed. You will benefit from this expertise and become equipped with critical creativity, improving on your skills in reading, , and thought that are vital for future employment.

You will also have the option of a semester in the USA, Canada, China, Hong Kong or Singapore.

Your English Literature Experience

You can choose from a fascinating range of English Literature and creative writing topics to tailor your degree to your interests.

We offer varied and flexible course content, so you can shape your course to your own interests, whether in Gothic and genre fiction, gender and culture, Renaissance literature, national and global literatures, modernity and contemporary writing, 19th century literature, or creative and professional writing.

Wales has a rich lyric tradition and Swansea is the birthplace of the poet and writer Dylan Thomas. You can be involved with exclusive projects with the Dylan Thomas Centre and the National Theatre Wales.

You will also have a personal tutor for any pastoral and academic support you may need, and the lively English Student Society at Swansea organises a range of literary, social and cultural events.

English Literature Employment Opportunities

By the end of the degree, you will be a confident communicator and critical thinker, equipped with transferable skills in analysis, writing, and problem-solving. You will develop excellent oral and written communication abilities, deepen your research skills and analytical thinking, and learn to present ideas across a variety of formats. You will also be able to solve problems, make informed decisions, and manage your time and workload effectively. All of which are desirable qualities in the modern job market.

Our graduates have entered careers in:

  • Writing / authorship
  • Journalism
  • Publishing
  • Media
  • Education
  • Marketing
  • Public relations
  • Teaching
  • Literary Festival management
  • Screenwriting

There are also opportunities for further study at Masters and Research level also available. Including existing taught MA programmes in English Literature, Creative Writing, Medieval Studies, Communication, Media Practice and PR, Digital Media, and Public History and Heritage. Our MA programmes can also lead on to PhD opportunities. Our PGCE in Secondary English is also a popular route for students following their BA in English Literature. 

Modules

We're currently reviewing our curriculum to enhance your learning experience and embed skills that will benefit your future career. This means that some modules may be subject to change.

Entry Requirements

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications.

Typical A level Offer

ABB-BBC

English Literature, BA (Hons)

English Literature with a Year Abroad, BA (Hons)

English Literature with a Year in Industry, BA (Hons)