English Literature

English literature is the close study of written works in the English language, from medieval poetry to contemporary fiction, examined for what they say about human experience, what they do with language and form, and how they reflect and shape the societies and historical moments in which they were produced. It is a discipline that trains you to read with precision and care, to make and evaluate interpretive arguments, to write with clarity and depth, and to engage with ideas across history, culture, philosophy and aesthetics. These are among the most transferable intellectual skills a degree can develop.

At the University of Sheffield, this three-year full-time programme includes a foundation year, a sandwich year, a year abroad and a work placement, giving you an exceptionally rich combination of academic preparation and real-world experience. World-leading experts will guide you through over a thousand years of literary art, engaging with film, theatre and creative writing from all over the world. The foundation year provides a thorough preparation for degree-level literary study before you move into the main programme.

The sandwich year, year abroad and work placement give you professional and international experience that complements your academic development and prepares you for a competitive graduate market.

English literature graduates are found across a remarkable range of careers: publishing, journalism, the civil service, law, communications, public relations, teaching, arts administration, broadcasting, film and television, social research and management. The skills of close reading, sustained argument and clear writing are valued in any professional context where language and persuasion matter. Further study at master's level in English literature, creative writing, publishing, education or a related field is a well-trodden route for those who want to pursue academic or specialist professional careers.