English Literatures with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

University of Wolverhampton

Why choose this course?

On this degree you will explore a wide range of literatures, from the canonical to the popular, from diverse authors. This degree aims to inspire your passion for and knowledge of literary and cultural texts from the medieval era to the present day, by writers from the West Midlands to the wider world beyond.

It will promote your understanding of the political and ideological significance of literature and culture in a wide range of social and historical contexts, especially in relation to gender, sexuality, ethnicity, religion, class, and disability. You will develop an awareness of the significance of ethical evaluations of reading and writing, supporting an understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion in literature, language and culture.

The course will encourage you to reflect critically on literary production and reception, value and cultural capital. The modules you study will advance your understanding of the different forms, aesthetics, genres, and functions of literary and cultural texts. Your experience of study will enhance your verbal, written and digital communication skills for developing and sustaining a professional career. The degree fosters your skills in critical and creative thinking, analysis, research, and problem-solving, for academic success and employment beyond your degree. This programme will enable you to develop your confidence in making your voice heard, at university, in employment, and in culture and society. This degree equips students for employment in any area where critical thinking, analytical skills, and where exemplary written and verbal communication skills are important. English Literatures graduates are valued for their capabilities in critical thinking, evidence gathering and evaluation, argument or point-of-view construction and advocacy, and problem solving, with these transferable skills proving highly desirable throughout the employment market. Many graduates have proceeded to postgraduate study, gaining Masters degrees, teaching and other postgraduate professional qualifications, and PhDs. Our graduates go into diverse careers and occupations, including education at all levels, management and leadership, local government, librarianship and information services, social work, the civil service, retail and the service sector, fundraising and charity work, journalism and professional writing, proof-reading, copyediting and publishing.

What happens on the course?

The modules you study have a strong emphasis on the way in which literatures shape social and cultural identities. You will focus on the politics, ethics, and ideologies of cultural representation, and issues of equality and diversity in literatures and culture.

You will be taught by friendly, welcoming staff, who are dedicated to working with you to enable you to achieve your full potential. You will have the opportunity to participate in sessions with internationally renowned literary critics, award-winning novels and poets.

You will have the opportunity to participate in our Literatures Wolves Culture Programme, including visits to sites of regional, national and international interest, with regular events on campus, theatre performances, visits to museums, galleries and events. You will have embedded opportunities for assessment and work experience that plays to your strengths, and that will support your skills for employment on graduation. You will be supported to complete a Student Record of Achievement, a record of skills and experiences to present to prospective employers. After completing your degree, you will have the opportunity to go onto a Masters degree in English or Popular Culture, and considering entering our PhD programme at University of Wolverhampton.