Overview

The B.A. in English- Literary Theory and Cultural Studies at the University of Pennsylvania offers an intellectually stimulating curriculum that examines the evolution of modern critical thought. Students engage with the transformative theories that have reshaped English departments, moving beyond traditional literary analysis to incorporate diverse academic perspectives. This concentration is particularly suited for those intending to pursue advanced graduate research in the humanities.

Why English- Literary Theory and Cultural Studies at the University of Pennsylvania?

The University of Pennsylvania provides a dynamic environment where the merits and limitations of theoretical work are actively debated. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates the works of influential thinkers such as Foucault, Derrida, and de Beauvoir. This programme encourages scholars to address complex questions formerly reserved for linguistics, economics, or psychology, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to cultural texts.

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 curriculum requires a minimum of 33 course units, focusing on diverse historical periods and theoretical frameworks. Modules may include:

Theory & Poetics
Difference and Diaspora
Medieval/Renaissance
Literature of the Long 18th Century
19th Century Literature
20th-21st Century Literature
Literature Before 1700
Literature Before 1900
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Careers with English- Literary Theory and Cultural Studies

Graduates are well-prepared for a variety of professional paths that require high-level analytical and communication skills. The programme is specifically designed to support students aiming for graduate-level study in English or related humanities disciplines. By mastering complex cultural and literary theories, alumni develop the critical thinking abilities necessary for roles in academia, research, and cultural institutions.

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

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TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Philadelphia, United States

Disciplines

Language Studies View 2622 other Bachelors in Language Studies in United States

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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

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

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for English- Literary Theory and Cultural Studies.

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

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