Study english literature abroad

Find programs that match your goals quickly and easily using our advanced search filters

Image reflecting the subject area of Humanities & Law

Apply to study abroad for a faster decision

We partner with each university admissions team to ensure applications are completed correctly and meet entry requirements.

  • Illustration of a woman with purple hair, looking at a computer screen with a large magnifying glass, indicative of searching. She holds an orange book and wears a maroon colored top.

    Find your ideal program on Studee

    Search thousands of programs in a few clicks

  • Illustration of a graduate in a cap and gown holding a book, standing next to a computer monitor displaying the Studee logo. A price tag is attached to the monitor, suggesting discounts or offers.

    Apply with exclusive Studee discounts

    Just click apply to get cheaper application fees

  • Illustration of a hand stamping a document. Beside the hand, a large orange cross symbol and a large purple check mark symbol representing approval and rejection options.

    Ensure your application is decision-ready

    We're an extension of the university's admission team

  • Illustration of a smiling person with reddish-purple hair holding an envelope containing a document labeled 'OFFER' with a university building in the background.

    Get a decision as fast as possible

    We'll chase your university to get a decision quickly

  • Find the best match - discover programs and universities that fit your goals and budget

  • Get expert advice, anytime - from application to enrollment, we're here to help

  • Apply faster - like your browser auto-fills forms, we pre-fill your application with any info you've already submitted

  • Visa guidance - step-by-step support to help you get your visa in time for your studies

  • Know if you're eligible - we make sure you've got everything you need to apply

  • Know exactly what to do, when - we'll guide you step by step through the admission process

Find your perfect english literature programs abroad

Find english literature programs you love that match your needs and aspirations, where you stand a high chance of acceptance.

English Literature degrees abroad

English literature is the academic study of texts spanning a range of time periods and genres. You’ll be challenged to analyze the form and meaning of novels, poetry, plays, short stories, and various other texts.

It’ll be your job to examine how texts have been influenced by the historical and cultural contexts in which they were set or written. You’ll apply critical theory and research to offer insightful and original interpretations of texts.

Studying English literature abroad is a great way to understand more about the world we live in. You’ll see for yourself how literature is used to educate, entertain, and inspire people across the globe. Visiting the setting of your favorite novel, or the hometown of your go-to author, will enrich your understanding and spark your creativity, helping you to become a deeper and more critical thinker.

English Literature program structure

You can study English literature as a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree. A BA usually takes three or four years of study and will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the academic field.

Unlike an undergraduate degree, postgraduate qualifications require you to narrow your focus to a specific genre, period, or author. An MA can be studied over one or two years, while a PhD can take between four and seven years to finish.

It’s popular to study English literature alongside another subject as part of a joint-honors course. Although subject combinations vary, the most common pairings include philosophy, history, politics, or a foreign language.

If you choose to study in the US, you’ll major in English literature. This means that you’ll dedicate a certain number of hours and credits to English-specific modules, alongside working on your wider liberal arts education.

English programs are famous for having a low number of dedicated teaching hours, so you’ll be expected to do lots of individual reading and study. You’ll attend lectures introducing you to key scholars, concepts, and theories. You’ll then use seminars and workshops to apply this knowledge to texts, as well as discussing and debating interpretations.

You’ll mainly be assessed through critical essays and written exams, but presentations and group projects may also feature.

Most English programs are highly flexible and students can choose from a wide range of elective modules. However, there are some core topics that you can expect to study, including:

  • Literature throughout history
  • Literature and theory
  • Creative writing
  • Introduction to poetry
  • Narrative forms
  • Contemporary literature
  • Literature and sociocultural contexts - gender, sexuality, and race
  • Literature and the nation
Illustration featuring a variety of academic and scientific symbols, including a graduation cap on top of a profile of Einstein's head, a book, a ruler, a lightbulb, a microscope, a DNA helix, and molecular structure, against a backdrop of a university building with trees and clouds.

Best countries to study english literature

English Literature study abroad programs

What are the top english literature undergraduate programs abroad?

See all undergraduate degrees in english literature abroad

What are the top english literature postgraduate programs abroad?

See all postgraduate degrees in english literature abroad

Future english literature careers

Your English literature degree will act as a springboard for further study or employment. The communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills you’ve developed will be transferable to several sectors and roles. Here are some of the most common graduate destinations:

  • Copywriter
  • Editorial assistant
  • Writer
  • Publisher
  • Teacher
  • Marketing and media assistant
  • Journalist
  • PR assistant

Future employers will often ask for extra evidence of your passion for English literature. It’s a good idea to join your University’s literature society, contribute to the student magazine, or arrange some work experience in the career you’d like to pursue. These activities will help to strengthen your CV and improve your employability.

Illustration of a student reading a book, surrounded by various symbolic elements including a scroll, pencil, question mark, briefcase, plant, skyscraper, and coins, representing education and growth.

Alternative humanities & law degrees