English Literature

Course summary

An A Level in English Literature is well-regarded by universities and business institutions. It is an ideal complement to all other subjects because it provides analytical and evaluative skills, as well as developing your skills of communication, reflection, forward thinking and creativity. Taking English at A Level and beyond therefore provides you with a skillset that prepares you for the world of work, and offers a variety of career options in both the academic and vocational areas. The breadth of opportunity the course offers allows students who are passionate about reading to engage with a range of texts, from the Victorian Gothic to modern poetry. You will be exposed to new writings, different voices and original experiences by addressing the purpose of literature, its function in society, and its role as an agent of change. Studying English Literature is about: “learning from the past, in the present, for the future. English Literature opens you up to new ways of thinking, reading, and writing” – Professor Katy Shaw. Students who have studied this subject have gone on to study/work in the area of: • Media and journalism (film, television, newspapers, advertising) • Publishing (traditional and digital publishing, e-books, electronic journals, online magazines, production, editing, marking, PR) • Teaching and academia (teaching young children/teenagers/adults, teaching at university level, research your chosen subject area for a university, publish journals and books) • Advertising and public relations (advertising, marketing, PR, sales) • Public Sector (civil service, health service, government, police/armed forces) • Law (barrister, solicitor, admin, research-based, paralegal, legal secretary)