Course Overview

Studying English Literature at Essex will revolutionize the way you think about literature. We’ll challenge you to reflect on how literature shapes, and is shaped by, the world. Drawing on key texts and ideas, you’ll develop critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills that will help you make your own mark.

Our BA English Literature is truly global and politically engaged, offering a wide range of module choices from different places, cultures, and historical periods. You will study everything from foundational texts and authors, including The Epic of Gilgamesh, Dante, and Ovid, to the most challenging contemporary texts from the last decade.

Whether it’s dystopian fiction, the Caribbean origins of zombie narratives or the issue of human and non-human rights in a digital age, we’ll ensure you pursue your interests to the fullest and that you’ll be supported by experts in the field.

General Eligibility

UK entry requirements

A-levels: ABB, including one essay-based subject

BTEC: DDD, depending on the subject studied - advice on acceptability can be provided.

IB: 32 points or three Higher Level certificates with 655, including a Higher Level essay-based subject grade 5.

We are also happy to consider a combination of separate IB Diploma Programmes at both Higher and Standard Levels. Exact offer levels will vary depending on the range of subjects being taken at higher and standard levels, and the course applied for. Please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for more information.

Access to HE Diploma: 15 level 3 credits at Distinction and 30 level 3 credits at Merit, depending on the subject studied - advice on acceptability can be provided.

We also consider T-levels.

International & EU entry requirements

We accept a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries. Get in touch with any questions you may have about the qualifications we accept. Remember to tell us about the qualifications you have already completed or are currently taking.

Part Time Work Details

20 hours per week.

Language Requirement

• If you do not require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK then we will assess your English language proficiency/ability at your interview or audition.

  If your first language is not English and you are an international student that requires a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK then you will need IELTS 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.