English literature at Cardiff has long enjoyed an international reputation for its teaching and research. Our dynamic, flexible degree programme allows you to study literature from different periods and cultures, and across the range of principal literary genres. You will not be restricted to studying the printed word: we are intrigued by the connections between literature and film, art, history, technology, language, and everyday life, and our teaching reflects these interests. You will 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.
We are also interested in the relationship between the critical and the creative, and you will have the option to try your hand at creative writing.
You will be taught by leading researchers in English literature in modules that work at the cutting edge of the discipline. The focus throughout the degree is on your becoming a careful and informed reader and writer who can communicate precisely, stylishly, and effectively. You will become a versatile, highly employable researcher who is both critically independent and collaborative.
Throughout the degree, our research-led teaching will support you to become independent, creative, and critical in your responses to literature and other forms of culture, such as film, art, and photography.
First-year teaching provides a foundation with carefully structured lectures and seminar discussions to help you develop key skills and gain confidence at university. Teaching in Years 2 and 3 is lecture- and seminar-based and moves gradually in the direction of specialisation and independent research as you develop as a reader and critic. In this supportive environment you will develop your abilities to analyse texts and arguments, collaboratively work through problems, construct your own arguments, and present your ideas clearly to others.
Throughout the programme, but particularly in the final-year core module, you will develop skills in communication and collaboration that you can transfer to the world of employment.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
September 2026
Main Site - Cardiff
Park Place,
Cardiff,
CF10 3AT, Wales, United Kingdom
A level - AAB-BBB. Must include Creative Writing, English Language and Literature, or English Literature. International Baccalaureate - 34-31 overall or 666-665 in 3 HL subjects. Must include grade 6 in HL English Language and Literature, English Literature, or English Literature and Performance. You must have or be working towards: English language or Welsh language at GCSE grade C/4 or an equivalent (such as A-levels). If you require a Student visa, you must ensure your language qualification complies with UKVI requirements. We do not accept Critical Thinking, General Studies, Citizenship Studies, or other similar equivalent subjects. We will accept a combination of BTEC subjects, A-levels, and other qualifications, subject to the course specific grade and subject requirements. IELTS (academic) At least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each subskill. TOEFL iBT At least 90 overall with a minimum of 17 for writing, 17 for listening, 18 for reading, and 20 for speaking.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
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