Overview

The Joint Honours BA in English Literature and History at Durham University offers a unique educational experience that combines two dynamic fields of study. This programme is designed to develop a comprehensive understanding of both literature and history, equipping students with the analytical skills necessary to explore the complexities of human experience through time. Our university is consistently recognised for its academic excellence, ranking among the top institutions in the UK for both English and History. This programme not only allows students to engage deeply with texts and historical contexts but also prepares them for a diverse range of careers upon graduation.

Why English Literature and History at Durham University?

Durham University is renowned for its exceptional academic standards, with the English department ranked in the top 5 according to The Complete University Guide Subject Rankings 2026. The History department also boasts impressive standings, being 4th in The Complete University Guide 2026. The university's commitment to research-led teaching ensures that students benefit from the latest academic insights. Additionally, Durham's partnerships with various cultural institutions enhance the learning experience, providing students with opportunities to engage with real-world applications of their studies.

Careers with English Literature and History

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for a variety of career paths. Alumni have successfully entered fields such as publishing, journalism, education, and the arts. The skills developed during their studies, including critical thinking, effective communication, and research proficiency, are highly valued across multiple sectors. Recent data indicates that 92% of graduates are either employed or pursuing further studies, with many securing positions in high-skilled roles.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Beyond the Northlands: The Vikings and their World
Decline and Crisis: Europe 1300-1500
Early Modern England: A Social History
Society and Culture in China under Ming and Qing Dynasties
Reformation Europe
The Century of Revolution
Making History
The Birth of Western Society, 300-1050 AD

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-27 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-30 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

80

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

62

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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4.9/5 student rating

Credits

360 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Durham, United Kingdom

Disciplines

History Literature View 464 other Bachelors in Literature in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

80

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

62

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

A level offer – AAB.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma – DDD.

IB Diploma score – 36 with 665 in higher level subjects.

Applicants taking Science A levels that include a practical component will be required to take and pass this as a condition of entry. This applies only to applicants sitting A levels with an English examination board.

We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications or who may have had a break in their study.
if you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take an International Foundation Year pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

28500 GBP / year

≈ 28500 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

9790 GBP / year

≈ 9790 GBP / year

Living costs

Durham

United Kingdom

660 - 1140 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for English Literature and History.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Why English Literature and History at Durham University?

Careers with English Literature and History

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

Durham

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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