In order to structure an academically coherent and intellectually rigorous programme, the degree is built around compulsory and optional modules. (Have a look at our module booklet for full information on modules).

The programme is delivered through lectures, tutorials and seminars. You will usually receive nine hours minimum scheduled contact time with your teachers every week. Every degree involves choices, options will be available and if first choices are not secured then the alternative will be as good. Full attendance at lectures, seminars and personal tutorials (personal tutorials are obligatory). All Arts and Humanities programmes include independent learning which requires initiative and hard work. 

We will challenge you with demanding teaching and assessment. Assessment includes essay, coursework and examination, presentations and a dissertation.    

• The BA English Literature covers themes from the early-Medieval period to the present day, while also developing your knowledge of critical theory and the diversity of approaches to literature.
• Optional modules are available in Creative Writing. 
• Specialist researchers and teachers in Gender and Culture offer modules.
• This course offers the study of Ancient, Medieval, Early Modern and Modern History and covers political, social, cultural and military aspects of history and not only British and European history but also the history of Asia and the Americas.
• In the third year students spend a year abroad in Europe or the USA.
• Our students have a personal tutor who provides pastoral support and guidance on issues that may affect their well-being, attendance and progress through University.

Disclaimer: Module selection options may change.

Students study six modules, three in English Literature and three in History.

Our standard entry requirement is BBB or equivalent but a typical offer could be BBB-ABB (UCAS tariff points 120-168), as all offers are made following a review of the application form, predicted/achieved grades and subjects, the reference and personal statement.  We also accept a range of advanced level qualifications including BTEC Diploma DMM-DDM; International Baccalaureate 32-33; Welsh Baccalaureate - grade equivalent to A-level; Access to Higher Education and Open University qualifications, and Extended Project.

International students, please visit: http://www.swansea.ac.uk/international/students/requirements For applicants whose first language is not English, we require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0.

EU/UK candidates apply here.

International students apply here.

Annual tuition fees for entry in the academic year 2017/18 are as follows:

Tuition fees for years of study after your first year are subject to an increase of 3% for International students and at the capped fee rate as set by the UK Government for UK/EU students.

During a sandwich year (e.g. year in industry, year abroad or placement year) a lower fee will apply. For more information visit our tuition fees page.

You can find further information on fees and how to pay on our tuition fees page.

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page.

Current students: You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page.

There are additional costs for study abroad. Find out more here.

English Literature Brochure  

BA English Literature Newsletter

"I studied English at Swansea University, and I now work at Discovery, the student volunteering charity based on campus. I am also a volunteer project coordinator with the same organisation, and run a monthly project for children from refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds. Having studied English has been incredibly advantageous in these roles, partially because my degrees have provided me with a good command of both written and spoken English. This enables me to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and for different purposes. Throughout my studies, I also gained skills in presenting material to a group, which is particularly useful in my current job, where I am responsible for delivering induction training to new volunteers. Aside from equipping me with practical skills, my English degrees have been influential in the way in which they nurtured my interest in other people and cultures."

Kirsty Rowles

I chose History at Swansea as the course offers a great variation of topics and the modules are really interesting. They stretch from the ancient empires of China and India, to the Second World War. The expertise of the lecturers is second to none. I had a great time, met lots of people and enjoyed student life at Swansea. I now work in Events Management.”

Alistair Kirk

The Research Institute for Arts and Humanities (RIAH) brings together academics, postgraduates and visiting national and international scholars to create a rich and vibrant research environment geared to international excellence and impact.

97.4 per cent* of English Single and Joint Honours Graduates from Swansea University are in work and/or further study six months after graduation. English at Swansea is ranked 2nd for graduate prospects in The Guardian Good University Guide 2016.

Graduating with an internationally recognised degree in English will put you in a great position to succeed in a wide range of careers. You will gain excellent oral and writing skills and you will learn to present your ideas in a range of formats. You will also develop strong research and analytical skills and the ability to problem solve and make informed decisions. Our programmes include various forms of assessment, teamwork through seminars, tutorials and group presentations and an independent study - dissertation module. You will learn to manage your time and workload effectively. All of these skills will ensure you can compete very successfully in the employment market.

Our students have progressed to a broad range of work sectors including education, marketing, social media, and project administration, working for companies such as:

• Jobs Growth Wales
• BUSINESS WIRE UK
• Cardiff Council

Other recent graduates have progressed to postgraduate courses in:

• MA English Literature
• MA Creative Writing
• MA Communication, Media Practice and Public Relations

*First–degree Swansea University graduates of English. HESA Performance Indicator sourced from the DLHE survey 2013/14.