Music and English Literature

Our Music and English Literature (BA) programme combines studies in literature, music and culture with creative and practical skills development which will open doors to a variety of career pathways.

During your time with us, we’ll nurture your critical and creative thinking, encourage your understanding and appreciation of diversity, enable you to communicate to a high standard and foster your resilience and independence. You will also acquire a wealth of transferable skills that are valued by employers and will support your professional ambitions.

Our dynamic, flexible degree programme allows you to study English literature from different periods and cultures, and across the range of principal literary genres. You won’t be restricted to studying the printed word: we’re intrigued by the connections between literature and film, art, history, technology, language, and everyday life, and our teaching reflects these interests. You’ll learn how literature addresses social, environmental, and economic concerns with the aim of creating a better, more inclusive world and developing sustainable solutions for the future of the planet.

Your music studies will include a range of academic modules which will develop your understanding of music theory and ensure you’re equipped to critically and reflectively assess styles and techniques. Alongside this, you’ll be encouraged to take full advantage of our ensembles representing a wide range of musical repertoires and traditions, such as the Jazz Ensemble, Symphonic Winds, Symphony Orchestra, Gamelan Ensemble, Chamber Choir, Chamber Orchestra, Lanyi (West African Ensemble), Symphony Chorus and the Pop Collective. 

You’ll also benefit from our home in Wales’ capital city. Cardiff is a creative and cultural hub, with a rich and diverse artistic and literary heritage. The city is home to a professional opera company, the Welsh National Opera, and a professional symphony orchestra, the BBC National Orchestra of Wales with which we enjoy long-established and fruitful relationships. Through these relationships, our students can attend dress rehearsals and purchase cut-price tickets for concerts. Alongside professional groups, Cardiff is home to a range of music and performance venues with passionate and welcoming communities.

Distinctive Features of the Programme Professional placement: Explore what the music business has to offer, and build your professional skills, with a placement. Adventure and exploration: Opportunities to study abroad in Europe and beyond, fostering independence and resilience. Communicate effectively: Develop employability skills and experience in presenting your ideas in speech and writing. Your instrument of choice: Realise your full potential through fully funded instrumental tuition Shape the future: Learn how literature addresses social, environmental and economic concerns with the aim of creating a better, more inclusive world.