BA (Hons) English and American Literature (3 Years)
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- TQ73
- Typical Offer
- AAB
- Contextual Offer
- BBB
- Course Length
- 3 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
The Atlantic Ocean does not mark a barrier when it comes to literary traffic. In fact, it is impossible to understand British Literature in the modern period, or American Literature in any period, without knowing something of the other nation’s culture.
At UEA, you’ll be able to focus on Anglo-American interchanges. You’ll also explore the many aspects of English and American literature which lie beyond that interchange, such as English Literature prior to the 19th century, and Native American and multi-ethnic writing.
Under the tuition of our world-leading scholars of English Literature and American Studies, you will study the wealth of both countries’ literatures. Your studies will reach back to Chaucer, Julian of Norwich and beyond, and forwards to the likes of Kazuo Ishiguro, Ian McEwan and Ali Smith. You’ll study writers as different from one another as Walt Whitman and Sylvia Plath, Brett Easton Ellis and Edith Wharton. After a firm grounding in your first year, you’ll launch yourself into more specialist areas of study, like contemporary fiction, journalism or comics.
The writers of Britain and America are deeply connected. Often, they employ the same language, address the same readers, and share the same cultural reference points. But at the same time, the two traditions differ sharply in their typical values and tones of voice. This programme allows you to experience these continuities and distinctions.
In your study of English literature, you’ll have the chance to discover a wealth of writers from Chaucer to the present day – from medieval romance via Shakespeare, Milton, Austen, the Brontës, and James Joyce, to novelists and poets who are still writing now. You’ll explore diverse traditions from across the globe and tackle a heady mix of genres, which currently range from epic to children’s literature, crime writing to lyric poetry, tragedy to biography. You might find yourself honing the perfect essay, experimenting with new forms of critical writing in one of our creative-critical modules, or gaining experience of careers like journalism or publishing which draw on your literary training.
You’ll also be studying the landmarks of American literature, exploring how Americans formed their sense of identity through their literary traditions from the 19th century to the present. Alongside writers such as Edgar Allan Poe, Herman Melville and Emily Dickinson you'll read abolitionist works by Harriet Beecher Stowe and Frederick Douglass. Towards the end of the century, you'll discover contemporaries of Mark Twain, Henry James and Edith Wharton such as Charles Chesnutt and Pauline Hopkins. You'll explore the vibrancy of American modernism – from Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald to the Harlem Renaissance. If you choose to explore further in the twentieth century, you'll reach the dizzy heights of postmodernism all the while keeping up with the radical decolonising work of writers like Leslie Marmon Silko and Nobel-prize winner Toni Morrison. You’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in both the big canonical American classics and in areas that are unique, contemporary, interdisciplinary, or cutting-edge.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
You’ll have the option to apply to study abroad for one semester of your second year. Studying abroad is a wonderfully enriching life experience – you’ll develop confidence and adaptability and have the chance to deepen your understanding of English and American literature while learning about another culture. At UEA, you will also be surrounded by the many students we welcome from around the world to study with us.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website
Study and Modules
Structure
You’ll begin your degree by developing and consolidating existing knowledge, before going on to develop your specialism in advanced subjects. Building on a solid foundation, you will gradually tailor your studies around your interests.
In your first year, you’ll gain a clear sense of both English and American literary traditions. In your American Literature modules, you’ll discover major authors and themes in literature from the United States while connecting these literary movements to contemporary United States culture. You will also explore the history of English as a global language, and the literatures it has inspired around the world. As well as this, you’ll work on the intensive development of your reading skills, in small, tutor-led discussion groups.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Throughout your degree, you’ll be taught through a combination of lectures and seminars. We pride ourselves on our small group seminar teaching, which allows a greater level of discussion between academic staff and students.
In first year seminars, you’ll learn how to listen to and critique the ideas of others, as well as how to present and defend your own arguments effectively. You’ll be introduced to the specific study skills needed for success on the course, including dedicated sessions to help you make the most of UEA’s state-of-the-art library facilities. Through these sessions and your academic modules, you’ll gain the crucial research skills of uncovering resources and critically assessing sources.
In addition to timetabled lecture and seminar slots, each member of UEA staff holds dedicated office hours where you can come and seek additional advice on a one-to-one basis. You’ll also be assigned an adviser who will support you through your studies by providing academic and career guidance.
Assessment
We use a variety of assessment methods in modules, with the majority forms of coursework. You’ll receive constructive feedback on every piece of assessment that you submit. These comments and reflections will help you identify the methods and strategies to improve your work and get the most out of your studies. In your first year, your assessment will focus on ensuring you have the skills of research and analysis you will need to pursue more independent learning as you progress through the degree.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll study Transatlantic literary encounters, from the colonial era and the slave trade, right up to modern postcolonial writers. You'll encounter modules on all periods of English literature from the medieval to the contemporary. You can study contemporary American fiction and multi-ethnic American literatures, or perhaps you’ll choose specialist options such as creative writing, European literature, environmental writing, American music, film and many more.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 60)Optional C Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
You’ll consolidate your skills of independent learning. As you progress into the second year of your degree, you’ll develop as a self-motivated researcher and independent thinker. You will choose from optional modules that allow you to plot a path through the course in line with your specific interests.
Assessment
In your second year, you will have more autonomy over your assessment. For example, you may devise your own research questions or opt for a creative response to the module organiser’s prompts. You’ll continue to hone your ability to present your knowledge to others and to collaborate with peers.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll choose from a huge array of specialist options. You might study Native American fiction or children’s literature, focus on a particular genre of writing such as lyric or tragedy, or home in on a singular topic from the very contemporary — the fiction of climate-change and environmental crisis, comics and graphic novels, queer culture — back through time to Romanticism, the Renaissance, or Medieval literary cultures. You can also opt to write a dissertation, benefiting from one-to-one expert supervision, and – if you wish – bringing together English and American literature in a comparative study.
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 30, Max Credits: 90)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 30, Max Credits: 90)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Throughout your time at UEA, you’ll be taught by academics working at the forefront of their fields. Our academics have been published widely on key issues that have shaped the development of English and American literature. In your final year, you will develop your expertise in areas that align with the specialisms of these staff. You’ll also have the opportunity to delve into your own research interest by writing a dissertation.
Assessment
In your final year, you’ll be assessed on the depth of your knowledge of specialised subjects. You’ll also have the option to write a dissertation on a topic of your choice with the support of expert staff. Your final degree result is determined by the marks you receive in your second and final years of study.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- AAB including English Literature or one of the following subjects: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, or Law. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Not accepted
- BTEC
- DDD plus B at A-level English Literature or one of the following subjects: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, or Law. See below for accepted subjects and combinations.
- Contextual Offer
BBB including English Literature or one of the following subjects: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, or Law.
DDM plus B at A-level English Literature or one of the following subjects: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, or Law.
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Scottish Highers
- AAAAA alongside Advanced Higher grade C in English Literature, or one of the subjects listed below: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, or Law
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BBC including English Literature, or one of the subjects listed below: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, or Law A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3, including English Literature, or one of the subjects listed below: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, or Law
- Access to HE Diploma
- Access to Humanities and Social Sciences pathway accepted. Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3
- International Baccalaureate
- 33 points including HL5 in English Literature, or one of the subjects listed below: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, or Law
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
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- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDD plus B at A-level English Literature or one of the following subjects: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, Psychology or Law.
Diploma: DD plus B at A-level at A-level English Literature or one of the following subjects: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, Psychology or Law.
Extended Certificate: D plus AB at A-level English Literature or one of the following subjects: English Language and Literature, English Language, History, Ancient History, History of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Classical Civilisation, Classical Studies, Politics, Government and Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Drama, Theatre Studies, Film Studies, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Media Studies, Psychology or Law.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as -
https://www.uea.ac.uk/course/undergraduate/ba-english-literature-with-a-foundation-year
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
On graduation you could go on to work in the arts, media, publishing, politics, charities and NGOs, teaching and the commercial sector. You’ll be equipped with sought-after skills of critical reading, independence, time management, team work, and many more. You’ll also be well placed to study for a postgraduate degree.
Our Careers Service is here to support you in launching your career by advising about CV writing, internships, and much more. Every year we run an event, Working with Words, which gives current students the chance to meet and hear from successful UEA alumni from across the creative industries.
UEA also harbours the UEA Publishing Project which, as well as publishing internationally excellent books, co-ordinates a range of internships, curriculum support, and other publishing related activities, including its own in-house student publishing project, Egg Box, to add to a multitude of other exciting activities to turn your love of literature into a foundation for your future career.
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers you could enter include:
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Media
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Marketing
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Finance
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Publishing
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Events management
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Journalism
Discover more on our Careers webpages.