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2025/26
2026/27

English Literature

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BA English Literature alumna Katie talks about how her degree has helped her career progression

‘Literature’, says the poet Ezra Pound, ‘is news that stays news’.

Our rich and vital literary inheritance informs the way we think about the world. It expresses how we feel about ourselves and others and stimulates both intellect and imagination.

At Reading, we believe that the study of English literature provides not only a rewarding challenge and an active pleasure, but also the foundation of a critical and cultural awareness that will remain with you for life. 

We are a very research-active department with a century-long history of innovation in English studies, and we continue to extend our curriculum to include contemporary American literature as well as new writing from Britain and Ireland. You will become part of a conversation about the way our subject is developing. You will also develop your own writing skills; whether your ambition is to write creatively or in a professional context, you will graduate with the confidence and skill to say exactly what you mean. 

Throughout your degree, you will be provided with consistent support that will set you up for the future:

  • 100% of our students said teaching staff are good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2024, responders from the Department of English Literature).
  • 96% of graduates from English Literature are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation (based on our analysis of HESA data © HESA 2024, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22; includes first degree English Literature responders).
  • 100% of our research is of international standing (REF 2021, combining 4*, 3* and 2* submissions – English Language and Literature).

  • In the Guardian University Guide 2025, we are ranked 9th for English.

In your second year, you may be able to spend a semester studying abroad at one of our partner institutions in Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe and USA. This is a great opportunity to continue your study of English literature while immersing yourself in a different culture.

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Armed with a degree in English or English literature, employers immediately know that you'll have these communication skills and the confidence to articulate yourself both verbally and in writing, and this is something that's completely invaluable.

Katie
BA English Literature

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