English Literature - BA (Hons)
Canterbury Campus, United Kingdom
English Literature - BA (Hons)
University of Kent
English Literature
Program Overview: English Literature at the University of Kent
The BA (Hons) English Literature at the University of Kent empowers you to explore how the world is perceived and informed through literary narratives, from the traditional canon to the innovative contemporary novel. You will develop critical and creative skills that allow you to effect change and shape your own future, studying in Canterbury's rich literary heritage setting.
This program covers a truly global scope, spanning American and Indigenous, British and Irish, Postcolonial and World literatures. You can tailor your studies according to your interests, choosing from a broad range of literary periods, topics, and themes, exploring poetry, drama, prose, and narrative forms in diverse media including films, artist books, and video games.
Taught by published poets, novelists, and internationally recognised scholars, you will sharpen your critical tools and nourish your unique creativity in a supportive academic environment. The curriculum is designed to set you up for a successful and exciting career across a wide range of fields, with assessment by coursework only and no traditional exams.
Key Program Highlights
- Global literary scope covering American, Indigenous, British, Irish, Postcolonial and World literatures with options to study abroad in Hong Kong, South Korea or the USA
- Project-based learning where you can create a documentary film, publish your own book, write a dissertation, or compose a portfolio of creative texts
- Coursework-only assessment with no traditional exams, featuring diverse and creative assessment methods throughout all stages
- Optional year abroad or year in industry placement between your second and final year to enhance your employability and gain real-world experience
Curriculum and Modules
The English Literature BA (Hons) at Kent follows a three-stage structure, progressing from foundational core modules in Year 1 to specialised options and an independent capstone project in Year 3. Each academic year comprises 1,200 learning hours including direct contact hours and private study, with teaching delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, and workshops.
Changing Literatures
30 UK CreditsAn introduction to the relationship between form and context in literary studies, exploring a rich variety of literary forms from the medieval period to the present, including poems, plays, novels, and short stories.
Adventures in Criticism
30 UK CreditsLearn about the most important thinkers in the history of literary criticism, understand how their ideas changed the way we study literature, and put critical methods into practice in your own writing.
World Literatures in English
30 UK CreditsStudy the rise of European colonialism, the impact of wars and decolonisation across the Global South, and the spread of globalisation through the lens of world literature and debates surrounding this contested category.
Shakespeare: Before and After
30 UK CreditsEngage with Shakespeare's works and their literary context, exploring the dramatic traditions that preceded and followed his career, and examining how his legacy continues to shape literature and culture.
Right/Write to the World: Displacement, Social Movements, Political Action
30 UK CreditsA project-based module investigating literatures and arts that focus on the right to the world as related to displacement, social movements, and political action, drawing on critical theory and creative activism.
The Project
60 UK CreditsA guided independent capstone project across two terms where you explore personal or professional interests. You may publish your own book, write a dissertation on a topic of your choice, or create a new portfolio of creative texts.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
The University of Kent assesses all applications on an individual basis, considering your academic background, personal statement, and references. To apply for this program, submit your application through Uni4Edu and our team will guide you through every step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- A-Level RequirementTypical offer includes grade C or above in English Language or English Literature at A-Level
- IB Diploma30 points in the International Baccalaureate Diploma or 120 UCAS Tariff points equivalent
- BTEC QualificationsBTEC National Diploma and Extended Diploma considered on a case-by-case basis; typical offer of Distinction, Merit, Merit
- GCSE RequirementGrade C or 4 in English Language GCSE or a suitable equivalent qualification
- International QualificationsA wide range of international qualifications are accepted; contact Uni4Edu for guidance on equivalency for your country
English Language Requirements
- CEFR LevelB2 (Good level of English language)
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for the specific IELTS score requirement for this program
- Alternative TestsVarious English language tests accepted; contact Uni4Edu for a full list of accepted qualifications
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of Kent has a long tradition of welcoming international students and offers a range of scholarships to support undergraduate study. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for the funding opportunities best suited to your profile.
Kent International Scholarship (Undergraduate)
Up to GBP 18,000 (GBP 6,000 per year for up to 3 years)Available to overseas fee-paying students with at least AAA at A-Level or equivalent. The award is applied as a tuition fee reduction and is renewable subject to maintaining an average of 60% in each year of study.
Kent Country-Specific Scholarship
Up to GBP 5,000 (GBP 3,000 in Year 1, GBP 2,000 in Year 2)A tuition fee waiver available to students domiciled in selected countries including Bangladesh, China, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, and others. Applied automatically as a fee reduction across the first two stages of your degree.
GREAT Scholarships (British Council)
GBP 10,000Jointly funded by the UK Government's GREAT Britain campaign, British Council, and the University of Kent. Available to passport holders from selected countries including Ghana, India, Kenya, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, and Turkiye.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the English Literature BA (Hons) at Kent develop outstanding communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills that are highly valued across a wide range of industries. The university embeds employability throughout the curriculum, with dedicated careers services, internships, and industry placement opportunities.
Potential Career Roles
Industries and Employers Hiring Graduates
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Kent is a well-established UK institution founded in 1965, consistently ranked among the top universities in the United Kingdom. It is recognised for strong research output and student satisfaction across its humanities and arts programs.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts & Humanities | QS World Rankings | #260 globally, #36 in UK |
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #34 in UK |
| English Language & Literature | Complete University Guide | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Research Quality | REF (Research Excellence Framework) | 97% rated international quality |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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