English Literature

Explore over a thousand years of literature from the early Medieval period to the present day, while also delving into some provocative questions that writing can unveil around gender, culture and more. Our course covers national and global literature stretching from Renaissance literature, Gothic and genre fiction and 19th century literature through to modernity and contemporary fiction.Studying our three-year BA cultivates sensitivity towards language and seeks to answer some provocative questions. It also opens up a range of exciting career possibilities by helping you to develop transferable skills, which are highly valued by employers.

Why English Literature at Swansea?
English at Swansea is ranked:

- 11th in 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)

Our academic staff are internationally recognised for their research. You will learn from experienced, established writers whose work has been widely published, broadcasted and performed.

On this degree programme, you can further enhance your student experience with the option to study abroad for a semester in countries such as Hong Kong, China, Singapore, North America or Canada.

Set in parkland overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the breathtaking Gower Peninsula, the university's location provides an excellent place to study. Outside of their studies, our students benefit from our lively English Student Society, which organises a range of literary, social and cultural events.

Swansea is also the birthplace of Dylan Thomas, widely regarded by many literary scholars as one of the twentieth century's most influential lyrical poets. 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).

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 to support final year students with the transition into employment or further study.

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