University of Liverpool

What you'll study

The programme offers a broad survey of British, Irish and international writing from the medieval period to the present, alongside modules in literary theory, critical history and cultural studies. Year 1 provides core grounding in close reading, introduction to literary genres and methods, and a choice of option modules that introduce different periods or thematic approaches.

In Years 2 and 3 you choose from a range of optional modules that typically include Shakespeare; Romanticism; Victorian and modernist literature; contemporary fiction and poetry; postcolonial and global literatures; gender and sexuality studies; and film and media studies. Students can often take modules in creative writing, digital humanities, or linguistics, and are encouraged to pursue independent research through a final-year dissertation or extended project.

The department emphasises research-led teaching and offers seminar work, close textual analysis, presentations and assessed coursework. Opportunities for work placements, study abroad or collaborative projects with local cultural organisations are available and can be taken as part of a broader award or as additional experience alongside your degree.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong written communication and critical thinking. Typical entry routes include A levels, Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers, the International Baccalaureate and a range of international qualifications; applicants presenting other qualifications or relevant experience are considered on their merits. A satisfactory standard in GCSE English (or equivalent) is normally expected.

Selection is based on academic achievement and your personal statement; an academic reference is usually required. International applicants who do not use English as their first language will need to provide an approved English language qualification at a level appropriate for undergraduate study.

Career prospects

Graduates in English leave university with transferable skills valued by employers: clear written and oral communication, textual analysis, research and argumentation, and project management. Common career paths include:

• Publishing and editorial work
• Journalism, copywriting and content creation for digital media
• Teaching (often following a postgraduate teacher training qualification such as a PGCE)
• Marketing, public relations and communications roles
• Cultural and arts management, librarianship and heritage roles
• Further academic study (MA, MPhil, PhD) leading to research and higher education careers
• Policy, the civil service and roles within NGOs and the private sector that require strong analytical and communication skills

Why study at University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool combines research-led teaching with access to rich archival resources and a lively cultural city. English students benefit from the department's research expertise across historical and contemporary specialisms and from hands-on opportunities with the university's Special Collections and local theatres, festivals and publishing contacts.

Students study in a compact campus and city setting with a strong student community and a range of support services for academic development, careers guidance and employability. The programme's flexible modular structure also allows you to tailor your studies to particular interests—whether literary history, creative practice or cultural theory—while developing skills that are attractive to a wide range of employers.