English BA: University of Southampton

Course overview

English at Southampton offers a course which covers a broad timespan, from the Middle Ages to the present day, and also defines its subject broadly, including creative writing and film studies. Characteristic features of their teaching are an emphasis on the relationship of literature to its historical and cultural context, and an interest in theoretical and interdisciplinary approaches.

• Year one introduces general areas of study, theoretical approaches and practical skills, laying the foundation for deeper study of the areas of literature and cultural theory that interest you most in years two and three.
• Two English double units and four single units in year one.
• A range of optional units in year two, plus a research skills course to prepare for your dissertation in year three.
• Option to take 25 per cent of your programme in an alternative subject.

Career Opportunities

A high proportion of our graduates go on to postgraduate study; the first step is normally a one-year taught MA, which may be followed by a three-year doctoral degree (both can be taken part-time over a longer period). This often leads to a teaching career at University or college level.

A substantial group take the one-year PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate of Education), with a view to a teaching career at primary or secondary level, or a qualification in teaching English as a foreign language.

Other graduates have gone on to a very wide range of careers, including accountancy, administration, advertising, journalism, law, publishing, radio presenting, TV production, and writing.

Course content

• Narrative and culture
• Critical theory
• Introduction to stage and screen
• Poetic language
• Film studies
• Creative writing
• Postcolonial literature
• Medieval and Renaissance literature

Entry requirements

• A levels: AAB including grade B in English Literature or English Language and Literature
• IB: 32 points including 16 at Higher Level with 6 from Higher Level English

Main University Contact

• Postal Address: University of Southampton
  University Road
  Southampton
  SO17 1BJ
• Tel: +44 (0)23 8059 5000
• Fax: +44 (0)23 8059 3131
• Email: admissns@soton.ac.uk
• Website: http://www.soton.ac.uk/