History and English Literature

History and English literature is a pairing with deep intellectual roots and strong practical coherence. Both disciplines are concerned with understanding human experience across time, but they approach it through different means: history through the critical examination of evidence and the reconstruction of past events and social structures, English literature through the close reading of texts and the interpretation of how language and narrative give form to experience. Studying them together means you are always attending to both the contexts in which texts are produced and the literary forms through which those contexts are expressed and transformed.

At the University of Reading, this three-year, full-time joint honours degree gives you the opportunity to explore the richness of English literature alongside the breadth of historical inquiry. You will engage with texts across different periods and traditions, developing close reading and interpretive skills, alongside historical research in social, political, intellectual, and cultural history. A sandwich year, a year abroad, and a work placement are all available, giving you professional experience and the opportunity to study in a different academic and cultural environment.

The typical entry tariff of 120 points reflects an accessible approach to admissions at a research-active university.

History and English literature graduates enter careers in education, publishing, journalism, the cultural sector, the civil service, law, broadcasting, arts administration, and a wide range of other fields where the ability to research carefully, write clearly, and think critically across contexts is valued. Teaching at secondary level is a common and rewarding path, typically pursued through a PGCE after the degree. Many graduates also go on to postgraduate study in history, English literature, or related fields, or pursue academic careers in either discipline.

The combination of historical context and literary sensitivity is particularly valued in heritage, archiving, curatorial work, and editorial roles.