English Literature and History with a Year Abroad

This four year English Literature and History degree with a Year Abroad is a diverse and challenging course which stretches from medieval to modern times.

Explore over a thousand years of literature, from the early medieval era to the present day, while engaging with thought-provoking themes of gender, culture, and society. This course covers both national and global literary traditions, including the Renaissance, Gothic genres, 19th-century literature, and contemporary fiction. By delving into these works, you will develop a deeper understanding of literature while gaining transferable skills valued by employers, opening a range of career opportunities.

Alongside literature, a diverse selection of history modules allows you to tailor your studies to your interests. Topics may include medieval Europe, modern British social history, religion, health and medicine, gender and women’s history, cultural history, the memory of war and conflict, public history and heritage, and the Cold War.

You also have the opportunity for a semester abroad in the USA, Canada, China, Hong Kong or Singapore – an exciting and rewarding experience, which will further enhance your student experience and career prospects.

Why English Literature and History at Swansea?
English at Swansea University is ranked:
- 11th in the UK for Research Impact (REF2021)

- Top 20 in the UK for Teaching Satisfaction (Guardian University Guide 2025)

- Top 101-150 in the World (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)

History at Swansea University is ranked:
- Top 15 in the UK for Student Experience (Times Good University Guide 2025)

You can also spend a semester studying abroad in the USA, Canada, China, Hong Kong or Singapore.

Your English Literature and History Experience
You can choose from a wide range of modules in English literature, creative writing and history to shape your course to match your interests.Topics typically available include: national and global literature from Beowulf to the present day, Renaissance literature, Gothic and genre fiction, 19th century literature, contemporary fiction, gender and culture, creative and professional writing as well as modern British social history, the history of religion, health and medicine, gender and women’s history, cultural history, the history and memory of war and conflict, public history and heritage.

Swansea has thriving, student-run societies for both English and History students with lively social and cultural events. Swansea is the birthplace of Dylan Thomas, widely regarded by many literary scholars as one of the twentieth century's most influential lyrical poets, and amongst the finest of all time. The university’s links to the legacy of Dylan Thomas remain with our annual Dylan Thomas Prize for Literature and through research carried out in our Centre for Research into the English Literature and Language of Wales (CREW). Throughout this course you will also have the opportunity to get involved in projects with the Dylan Thomas Centre and the National Theatre Wales.

You will also have a personal tutor for any pastoral or academic support you may need.Our degree programmes aim to support students prepare for their future world of work. You will access support and guidance through the university’s Careers Service and Work Placement Team and all students have access to events, workshops and employer talks, including an annual conference for students in June to support final year students with the transition into employment or further study.

Set in parkland overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the breathtaking Gower Peninsula, the university's location provides an excellent place to study. Students can enjoy both a city and beautiful beaches and coastlines.

Please visit our course page for more information: https://www.swansea.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/culture-communication/english-literature-creative-writing/ba-english-literature-history/