BA Comparative Literature and Culture with Foundation Year (Part-Time)

This part-time BA in Comparative Literature and Culture at Birkbeck University of London provides a broad education in literature and culture, with a particular focus on comparisons across different cultures and historical periods. Students will investigate how works of literature reflect and shape cultural attitudes and values, as well as develop a range of critical skills and knowledge of literary theories and methods. The foundation year prepares students for degree-level study, providing a solid grounding in academic skills and subject-specific knowledge. Graduates of this course can pursue careers in fields such as publishing, journalism, teaching, and cultural management.

Additional Information

This course is designed for those who want to explore the ways in which literature reflects and shapes culture, but do not have a traditional academic background. The foundation year provides a supportive environment for students to develop their academic skills and knowledge of literature and culture. Students will have access to state-of-the-art resources and facilities at Birkbeck's main campus in Bloomsbury, London.

Join a world-class institution for the study of literature and culture, with a long history of academic excellence and a vibrant international community.

Birkbeck University of London is a world-renowned institution for the study of literature and culture. The department has an international reputation for excellence in research and teaching, with a diverse range of staff and students from around the world. Our location in central London provides access to a rich cultural environment, with numerous museums, galleries, and libraries within easy reach.

You will explore transnational phenomena and you can also pursue an interest in other forms of comparison, for example, between text and image - we offer modules focusing on literary adaptation across media and many other types of encounters between literature and visual culture. There is no language learning requirement for this program, and all texts will be taught in English translation, but you can develop your language skills to a higher level as part of the degree program if you wish. You have the option of studying up to three language modules, including starting at the beginner level. Before proceeding to the main degree, you will spend your Foundation Year preparing yourself for a degree in the arts by improving your study and research skills and gaining arts-related knowledge and understanding. You will also have the opportunity to take a language module as part of the Foundation Year. Our part-time Foundation Year degrees allow you to spread out your Foundation Year studies over two years. As the 'Foundation Year' is made up of 120 credits, as a part-time student you can take 60 credits in each of your first and second years before starting the main four-year BA Comparative Literature and Culture. This means that you can take six years to complete the part-time degree with Foundation Year.

We welcome applicants without traditional entry qualifications as we base decisions on our own assessment of qualifications, knowledge, and previous work experience. We may waive formal entry requirements based on the judgment of academic potential.