Study English In The UK- A Comprehensive Subject Guide
Studying English at the university level offers a comprehensive exploration of the English language, literature, and related subjects. A degree in English can open doors to various career paths and personal enrichment. There are numerous areas of English to study, ranging from Shakespearean sonnets to the complexities of the English language, and a multitude of transferable skills that are applicable to a broad range of careers.
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What is English?
An English degree is an academic qualification earned by completing a programme of study focused on the English language, literature, and related subjects. It is typically awarded at the undergraduate (bachelor’s) level, but it can also be pursued at the graduate (master’s or doctoral) level. An English degree programme involves the study of literature, which includes classic and contemporary works of fiction, poetry, drama, and non-fiction.
Additionally, it often covers language and linguistics, which encompass the study of grammar, syntax, phonetics, and sociolinguistics. Students in English degree programmes develop critical thinking, analytical, and research skills, as well as written and verbal communication abilities. English degrees are versatile and can lead to careers in writing, editing, education, journalism, public relations, marketing, and more, while also promoting personal enrichment, intellectual growth, and a lifelong appreciation for literature and language.
Why Study English?
- Literary Appreciation: English literature is a treasure trove of classic and contemporary works that provide insights into the human condition, cultural diversity, and historical contexts. Studying English allows you to explore profound themes, storytelling techniques, and the richness of human expression.
- Critical Thinking and Analysis: English programmes foster critical thinking and analytical skills. You learn to dissect texts, analyse complex narratives, and interpret symbolism, which are skills valuable for evaluating information, making informed decisions, and problem-solving in various aspects of life.
- Enhanced Writing Skills: English degree programmes require extensive writing, honing your ability to express ideas clearly and persuasively. These skills are invaluable in careers that involve written communication, such as writing, editing, and content creation.
Best Universities for English in the UK (2026)
Here is a list of the top UK universities in this field according to the latest Complete University Guide subject league table (2026):
Entry Requirements for an English Degree
Entry requirements for an English degree in the UK can vary depending on the university and the specific programme. However, there are some common requirements and guidelines to consider:
- Academic Qualifications: Typically, you’ll need to have completed your secondary education, which in the UK usually means having passed A-levels or equivalent qualifications.
- A-level or Equivalent Subject Requirements: Universities may specify certain A-level subjects or equivalent qualifications as entry requirements. For an English degree, subjects like English Literature, English Language, or a related subject are commonly required or recommended.
- Grades: Specific grade requirements can vary by institution and programme, but competitive programmes may require high grades in A-levels or equivalent qualifications.
- English Language Proficiency: If English is not your first language, you may be required to provide proof of English language proficiency. This is usually done through standardised tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Writing Sample: In some cases, you might be asked to submit a writing sample or complete a written assignment to demonstrate your writing skills.
- Additional Requirements: Some universities may have specific additional requirements, such as submitting a portfolio (if the programme involves creative writing) or taking a subject-specific admissions test.
Jobs for English Graduates
Here are the career prospects for graduates in this field:
- Writer or Author: English graduates often pursue careers as writers, including novelists, journalists, content writers, and technical writers.
- Editor: Many work as editors, reviewing and revising content for accuracy, style, and clarity. This includes roles in publishing, journalism, and content editing.
- Teacher or Professor: English graduates can become educators, teaching English at primary, secondary, or tertiary levels. A graduate degree may be required for university-level teaching.
- Copywriter: Copywriters create written content for marketing and advertising purposes, crafting persuasive messages to promote products and services.
- Technical Writer: These professionals specialise in creating user manuals, product documentation, and technical guides, translating complex information into understandable language.
What do English Graduates Career Prospects Look Like?
Among English graduates who have entered employment, 13% have secured positions as teaching professionals. Additionally, sales and marketing associate professionals, media professionals, and roles in artistic, literary, and media occupations also feature prominently among the top five jobs held by English studies graduates 15 months after graduating. Overall, 57.2% of English graduates are employed.
Salary for English Graduates
Check out the average salary for graduates in this field:
Low skilled: £18,000
Medium-skilled: £19,000
High-skilled: £24,000
Topics for English Dissertation
Below, we present a diverse array of research areas, each offering an opportunity to look into the complexities of English and make a significant contribution to its advancement:
- Analysis of Character Development in a Specific Novel: Select a novel and look into how the characters evolve throughout the story, exploring their motivations and transformations.
- Exploration of a Literary Movement: Investigate a literary movement like Romanticism, Modernism, or Postcolonial literature, and analyse its impact on the works of authors within that era.
- Feminist Themes in Classic Literature: Examine feminist themes in classic novels, such as Jane Austen’s works, and how they relate to the women’s rights movement.
- The Use of Symbolism in Poetry: Select a renowned poet or a collection of poems and analyse the use of symbolism and its deeper meanings.
- Post-colonialism in Literature: Investigate how postcolonial themes are portrayed in literature from different parts of the world and the impact of colonisation on cultural identity.
How Much Does it Cost to Study in the UK
One of the most important things to consider is how much the degree is going to cost. Here is a general guide for 2024/2025:
- For home students in England, universities can charge up to a maximum of £9,250 per year for an undergraduate degree.
- In Wales, institutions can charge up to £9,000 for home students. However, Welsh students can apply for a fee grant to cover some of the cost of their tuition fees. This grant is currently not repayable or income-assessed.
- Northern Irish universities will charge up to £4,275 for home students and may charge up to £9,250 for students from elsewhere in the UK.
- Scotland does not charge home students fees at the undergraduate level; however, students from England, Wales, or Northern Ireland are expected to pay up to £9,250 per year. International students from outside of the UK will pay significantly more to study in Scotland.
- International students can expect to pay between £10,000 and £26,000 annually for lecture-based undergraduate degrees at universities across the UK. An undergraduate medical degree can cost overseas students up to £58,600 per year. As for postgraduate degrees, the average cost is estimated to be around £17,109 per year.
Other Subjects to Consider
Given that you are interested in this subject area, you might also want to consider the following options:
- History: Study the past to gain insights into how societies, cultures, and politics have evolved. History graduates often pursue careers in research, education, and archiving.
- Political Science: Explore government, international relations, and political systems. This can lead to careers in politics, diplomacy, or law.
- Education: Prepare for a career in teaching or educational administration. Consider a degree in early childhood education, elementary education, or secondary education.
- Philosophy: Study fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and reality, which can lead to careers in academia, law, or ethics consulting.
- Theatre and Drama: Study theatre arts, acting, and stage production, which can lead to careers in the performing arts and entertainment industry.
Frequently Asked Questions about Studying English
English is now one of the most spoken languages around the world.
An English degree will give you the opportunity to study modern and classic literature, theatre, film, language or even have a go at creative writing. Most literature courses cover the history of written literature, from pre-Chaucer to postmodernism, whereas language courses are concerned with the words, grammar and sounds of spoken and written English.
Typical modules for courses in this subject include:
- Beowulf
- Drama: reading and performance
- English literature and its contexts 1300–1550
- Hyper-contemporary literature and the book prize
- Introduction to drama
- Introduction to poetry
- Introduction to the novel
- Literature in English, 1910–present day
- Practical criticism and critical practice
- Shakespeare
- The early Tudors: literature and reformation
- The history of the English language to c1800
- Tragedy, from ancient Greek drama to contemporary writing
- Victorian literature and science
The top 3 universities for English in the UK are University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, and University of St Andrews, according to the Complete University Guide 2025.
English graduates have strong career prospects and there are a lot of applicable and relevant jobs available, including:
- Writer/Author
- Content creator
- Copywriter
- Advertising account manager
- Civil servant
- Information manager
- Journalist
- Librarian
- Magazine editor
- Marketing executive
- Media researcher
- PR executive
- Press officer
- Publisher
- Social worker
- Teacher
- TESOL tutor
English graduates can expect an entry-level salary of £17,000–£23,000.
If you become a journalist, your starting salary may be around £21,000 – though unpaid experience and internships may be required to gain entry to the career. The average salary for an experienced journalist is £35,500, although there are reports of salaries in excess of £80,000 for senior roles.
Train to teach, and as a teacher in England your salary will start at £25,700, climbing to £41,600 for classroom teachers with experience. There’s extra pay if you take on additional teaching and learning responsibilities. Move into school management, and earnings can increase to £117,000 for those in top leadership roles.
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