English Birkbeck, University of London

Overview

The English (Hons) at Birkbeck, University of London offers a comprehensive exploration of literature, culture, and ideas within a vibrant academic community. This degree encourages students to become sophisticated readers and writers by engaging with a wide range of texts spanning from the medieval period to the contemporary era. You will study under the guidance of internationally recognised researchers and authors who are leaders in their respective fields.

The curriculum is designed around three core pillars: storytelling, making stories, and understanding texts. This approach ensures that you not only learn how narratives are constructed but also how they function within global and historical contexts.

Why English (Hons) at Birkbeck, University of London?

Birkbeck, University of London is a premier destination for literary studies, ranked second in the UK for its English Language and Literature research in the Research Excellence Framework. The campus is situated in Bloomsbury, an area with a prestigious literary heritage once home to the Bloomsbury Group and Virginia Woolf. Students benefit from a creative hub that includes the Peltz Gallery, the Gordon Square Cinema, and dedicated theatre spaces.

The institution maintains strong links with London’s cultural landscape, facilitating visits to theatres and collaborations with leading arts organisations. For those looking to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world, a competitive industry placement module is available. This allows you to spend a term working within an arts-related organisation, gaining practical experience while you complete your degree.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 18500 per year
• National fee: GBP 9535 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Production of the Human
• Storytelling: Narrative Archetypes, Forms and Techniques
• Writing London
• Medieval and Renaissance Literatures
• Rewriting our World
• The Novel: Writing the Modern World
• Connecting the Arts
• Literature, Empire and Race
• Poetry and Power: Text, Voice, Song

Careers with English (Hons)

Graduates from Birkbeck, University of London possess highly valued analytical, creative, and communication skills. These transferable attributes prepare students for successful careers in diverse sectors such as publishing, journalism, and education. The ability to critique complex ideas and produce sophisticated written work is essential for roles in public relations and the creative industries.

Common career paths for graduates include professional writing, editing, and research roles. The School of Creative Arts, Culture and Communication provides dedicated careers support, including workshops and resources specifically tailored to the cultural industries. This ensures that students are well-equipped to navigate the professional landscape upon completion of their studies.