Overview

The B.A. in English- 20th, 21st Centuries at the University of Pennsylvania offers an intensive exploration of the literature and culture defining the modern era and the new millennium. Students examine how historical calamities, technological upheavals, and social revolutions have shaped the English language and literary expression. This programme encourages a deep analysis of the "modernist revolution" and the subsequent emergence of diverse voices in contemporary writing.

The curriculum is designed to turn the present into history by investigating the fallout of the twentieth century and the complexities of our current age. By engaging with works from the 1970s to today, learners witness how aesthetic experimentation has been tethered to projects of social change.

Why English- 20th, 21st Centuries at University of Pennsylvania?

The University of Pennsylvania provides a unique environment where students can specialise in specific literary eras while benefiting from a broad liberal arts foundation. The School of Arts & Sciences offers extensive resources, including specialised seminars and a diverse range of course attributes that allow for a tailored academic experience. Students have the opportunity to pursue honours through a dedicated thesis, provided they maintain a high grade point average within the major.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 63204 per year
National fee: USD 63204 per year
Local fee: USD 63204 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The programme requires the completion of 33 course units, including foundational approaches and specific sector requirements. Modules may include:

Theory & Poetics
Difference and Diaspora
Medieval/Renaissance
Literature of the Long 18th Century
19th Century Literature
20th-21st Century Literature
The One Series
Literature Before 1700
Literature Before 1900

Careers with English- 20th, 21st Centuries

Graduates from this programme are equipped with advanced analytical, writing, and critical thinking skills applicable to a wide range of professional sectors. The study of contemporary literature and social change prepares students for roles in media, journalism, publishing, and education. Many alumni also leverage their expertise in communication and cultural analysis to pursue careers in law, public policy, and various creative industries.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Theory & Poetics

Difference and Diaspora

Medieval/Renaissance

Literature of the Long 18th C (ca. 1660-1832)

19th Century Literature

20th Century Literature

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

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

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Philadelphia, United States

Disciplines

Language Studies View 2628 other Bachelors in Language Studies in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

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

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

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

Common Application or Coalition Application & Penn-specific Essay

Official High School Transcript

School Report

Counselor Recommendation

Academic Teacher Evaluations (2)

Early Decision Agreement (only if applying for Early Decision)

Mid-Year Report

Final Report

SAT or ACT

English language proficiency

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

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year
Out-of-State

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year

Living costs

Philadelphia

United States

1313 - 2284 USD / month

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

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for English- 20th, 21st Centuries.

Available Scholarships

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

About

Overview

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

Living costs

Philadelphia

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

Our partners