BA (Hons) in English (with Foundation Year), Birkbeck, University of London

48 Months

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About this course

If you love literature, culture, ideas, and writing, the BA English program offers a flexible, rich curriculum taught by renowned academics. The course explores a variety of texts from medieval to contemporary times, including works from North America and the Global South. You will examine how stories are conveyed, created, and understood, enriching your analytical, writing, and communication skills. The program is designed to inspire critical thinking and creativity while supporting your interests through a diverse selection of modules. You will study in a vibrant environment rooted in the literary history of London, with opportunities to engage with cultural institutions and participate in events with leading critics and writers. Whether full- or part-time, this course prepares you for careers in writing, publishing, education, journalism, and more, fostering skills valued across numerous industries.

Why this course is highly recommended

Students are supported to develop their skills as thinkers, readers, and writers in inspiring and welcoming classrooms. The course features groundbreaking texts, a diverse curriculum, and opportunities to explore urgent issues like identity, climate justice, and migration through literature. Taught by award-winning academics and international experts, students benefit from a vibrant research environment and close engagement with contemporary cultural topics. The program’s emphasis on practical skills, global perspectives, and engagement with arts and culture makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive, culturally rich education in English.

Specialisation

The course offers pathways to specialise in areas such as Creative Writing and English or English and Language options including French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. This allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests and future career goals.

Course fees

Application fees

19.06L

1st year tuition fees

19.06L

Living cost

Degree requirements

To complete the degree, students need to earn 360 credits across their modules. Core modules are mandatory each year, with additional option modules selected based on interest. Full-time students typically study for three years, while part-time students can take up to six years. The curriculum includes compulsory modules such as 'Production of the Human' and 'Storytelling,' with numerous optional modules on topics like Gothic Romance, US Literature, and the Victorian era. Final year students undertake a dissertation project, consolidating their learning and research.

English language test

DUOLINGO

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Birkbeck, University of London admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates develop valuable transferable skills in collaboration, cultural understanding, critical analysis, and communication. These abilities are highly valued in sectors like writing, publishing, editing, education, journalism, and the creative industries. The program also offers tailored careers and employability support, including workshops and placements, especially for arts and cultural roles. Alumni work in a wide range of roles, leveraging their skills to succeed across multiple fields.

FAQs

What are the study options for this course?

You can study full-time or part-time, on campus, with flexible options including with or without a Foundation Year.

When is the application deadline?

Applications via UCAS should be submitted by January, but late applications may be accepted depending on availability. Part-time applications are made directly to Birkbeck.