University of Central Lancashire(UCLAN)

What you'll study

This programme combines close textual study with historical, theoretical and cultural approaches to literature. Core work typically covers major periods and genres — including Shakespeare and early modern drama, the long nineteenth century (Romanticism and Victorian fiction), modernist and twentieth-century writing, and contemporary and postcolonial literature. You will also study literary theory and criticism, research methods, and options that link literature with media, film, digital humanities and creative writing.

• Core themes and periods: Shakespeare and drama, Romantic poetry, Victorian novel, modernism, contemporary and postcolonial literatures.
• Theory and context: literary and cultural theory, gender and queer studies, race and empire, book history.
• Skills and methods: close reading, advanced essay writing, independent research, critical argumentation and presentation.
• Optional and practice-led modules: creative writing workshops, adaptation and film studies, digital editions and textual scholarship, editing and publishing projects.
• Final-year project: dissertation or substantial creative-critical project demonstrating sustained independent research or practice.

The programme is delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and one-to-one supervision for major projects. Assessment is typically a blend of essays, presentations, portfolios and a final research or creative project. Students are encouraged to take modules that support work experience, such as publishing placements, outreach or collaborative projects with cultural institutions.

Entry requirements

Typical entry is based on successful completion of secondary qualifications equivalent to UK A-levels and satisfactory performance in subjects demonstrating strong written and analytical ability. Applicants are normally expected to have a good profile in humanities subjects; specific offers can vary by year and by applicant background.

• Undergraduate applicants: usual offers are made on the basis of A-levels, BTEC or equivalent qualifications; Access to HE diplomas and advanced entry with relevant prior study are also considered.
• International applicants: comparable international qualifications are accepted; applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through recognised qualifications or tests.
• Other routes: mature students and those with relevant professional experience are welcome and assessed on an individual basis.

All applicants should check UCLan’s official admissions pages for precise, up-to-date entry requirements and guidance on how qualifications are accepted.

Career prospects

Graduates of English Literature develop strong analytical, research, writing and communication skills that are valued across many sectors. Common career paths include teaching and education, publishing and editing, journalism and media, copywriting and content creation, public relations and marketing, arts management and heritage work, and roles in civil service or policy where critical thinking and clear writing are essential.

• Publishing and editorial work: editorial assistant, proofreader, commissioning roles and project management in independent and mainstream publishers.
• Media and communication: journalism, digital content production, social media management and copywriting.
• Creative and cultural industries: creative writing, script development, arts administration, museums and heritage interpretation.
• Further study: postgraduate study in literature, creative writing, librarianship, information studies, teacher training (PGCE) or research degrees (MA/MPhil/PhD).

UCLan supports employability through careers guidance, placement opportunities and links with regional cultural organisations which help students gain relevant work experience.

Why study at University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

UCLan offers a supportive learning environment with a strong focus on teaching excellence and employability. The English department combines research-informed teaching with opportunities for practical experience, including writing workshops, student-led publications and connections with local cultural institutions.

• Teaching and supervision: modules led by staff active in research across a range of literary periods and critical approaches, ensuring a curriculum grounded in current scholarship.
• Facilities and resources: access to university libraries, special collections and digital resources to support textual study and independent research.
• Placement and extracurricular opportunities: support for work placements, internships and volunteering with publishing houses, theatres, schools and arts organisations in the region.
• Student community: societies and reading groups, student-run magazines and events that provide peer networks and practical experience in editing, event organisation and publicity.

Prospective students should visit UCLan’s official programme pages for the most current information on modules, entry requirements and student support services.