BA Philosophy and English Literature

In studying this combined degree, you will acquire a strong understanding of fundamental philosophical concepts and theories and develop the ability to critically evaluate arguments. You will also get to explore and examine English texts spanning a broad chronological period, from the medieval to modern age, and reflect on how the two subjects that comprise this degree interconnect through four bridge modules. Why study this course? This course offers the opportunity to learn from some of the UK’s leading researchers in an exceptionally supportive environment. We teach you the requisite skills step-by-step, so that by the third year you are ready for specialised modules, taught by leading experts, and featuring a strong input from their research. Our small class sizes and focus on small-group seminar discussion ensure that students receive dedicated individual attention. Studying philosophy will equip you with the ability to think logically, to evaluate arguments critically, and to challenge your own ideas and those of other people. You will examine some of our most fundamental ideas about truth, reality, right and wrong. Studying English literature provides a solid grounding in a comprehensive range of English texts, from medieval literature to contemporary and creative writing, and sets the foundation of a critical and cultural awareness that will remain with you for life. You will develop critical and communicative skills which are valued highly in many professions, including law, publishing, business, management, government and politics. All our third year modules include a placement component whereby students can gain experience in the workplace, with a company or charity. After the course The wide range of skills and experience our graduates come away with means they can find employment in many fields. The combination of Philosophy and English Literature can provide you with general skills in reasoning and argument as well as skills in oral communication, research and writing, together with a high level of cultural literacy and critical sophistication. Graduates have gone on to work for employers including the Ministry of Defence, Yellow Media Works, Cambridge University Press, the BBC, the Telegraph, Vogue, Oxford University Press, Waterstones, Cisco (the software company) and the Royal Mint, as well as local authorities and schools. Some graduates have also gone to pursue further study in Law, in Archival Studies, in English Literature and even in Medicine. The innovative Professional Track programme in the Department of English Literature will ensure that you have the ‘complete package’ that employers are looking for: a good degree, workplace skills and experience.