English Literature is literature written in the English language. It is a broad term for all forms of English language literature which includes novels, short stories, poems, fiction, non-fiction and plays that has been produced throughout history.

By studying a degree in English literature, students will learn how to have an in-depth analysis of a multitude of texts and they will learn how to write clearly, concisely and analytically in stylistically different forms. In addition, students will develop a thorough knowledge of literary history, theory and criticism which enhances their understanding of a wide range of topics.

Literature opens the door to a world of creative imagination. Not only will students develop the skills essential in today’s global environment, but students of literature can also encourage change and innovation. English literary studies help students understand the world in all its social, political, economic and cultural aspects through stories, novels, poetry and drama.

Literature is closely related to other disciplines like History, Philosophy, and Language and a degree in the subject provides many transferable skills including communication, the ability to work analytically and complete research and the skills to work independently.

Study levels:

Depending on the country, it will take students three or four years to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a further one or two years to achieve a Master of Arts degree. Additionally, colleges and universities also offer courses at the Doctoral level.

The following is a list of the study levels offered under a Literature degree:

• Bachelor of Arts in English (Hons)
• Bachelor of Arts in English Literature
• Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature
• Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Creative Writing
• Bachelor of Arts in Modern and Classical Languages and Literature
• Bachelor of Arts in World Languages and Literature
• Master of Arts in English (Hons)
• Master of Arts in English Literature
• Master of Arts in Comparative Literature
• Master of Arts in Linguistics
• Master of Arts in Medieval Literature and Culture
• Master of Philosophy in Literature
• Ph.D.

Specialisations:

Opportunities to specialise in a specific field is common for those studying an English literature degree. There is a wide range of English topics and specialisations for students to choose from and these include:

• Creative writing in English literature
• Linguistics
• Postcolonial literature
• 19th century literature
• 20th century literature
• Contemporary literature
• Medieval literature
• Modernism
• Feminism
• Playwriting
• Poetry
• British literature
• American literature
• Indian literature
• Classical literature
• Modern European drama

Employability:

As with other liberal arts and humanities subjects, graduates with a literature degree go on to pursue careers under a variety of roles in different industries. Graduates often choose to utilise their excellent communication skills along with a detailed knowledge of the written language in these fields. Popular career options for graduates include journalism and media careers, teaching careers, a career in marketing, advertising and PR, careers in publishing and civil service careers.

Other careers that one might consider with a literature degree include retail management, politics, law or law enforcement, finance, sales, recruitment, library and museum work, academia and graduates can also work as English language instructors and translators in several coaching institutes, training students for international exams like IELTS. 

Job titles include:

• Editor
• Teacher/Lecturer
• Writer
• Book Reviewer
• Journalist
• Copywriter
• Creative Director
• Editorial Assistant
• Publishing Assistant