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BA (Hons) English (with a study abroad year)
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) English (with a Study Abroad Year) at the University of Sussex is designed for students passionate about English literature, language, and cultural studies. This unique program not only provides in-depth knowledge of English literary traditions but also offers the exciting opportunity to study abroad for a year, enriching students' academic experience and expanding their global perspective. The program is ideal for those interested in exploring literary works from different cultures, enhancing their understanding of the English language, and developing critical thinking and analytical skills. The study abroad component allows students to immerse themselves in different literary traditions and academic environments, creating a well-rounded and globally-aware graduate ready for a diverse range of careers.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) English (with a Study Abroad Year) at Sussex offers a comprehensive exploration of English literature from its early beginnings to contemporary works. The first two years focus on developing strong analytical and literary skills, covering a wide range of genres, periods, and authors. Students explore topics such as medieval and early modern literature, Victorian literature, postcolonial studies, contemporary fiction, poetry, and drama. Additionally, students study the theory and history of the English language, enabling them to understand how the language has evolved over time and its impact on literature and society. In the third year, students study abroad at a partner institution, allowing them to experience a different academic environment and gain an international perspective on English literature and culture. During their time abroad, students have the opportunity to take literature or cultural studies courses that align with their academic interests. Upon returning to Sussex, students complete their final year, focusing on advanced topics in literature, theory, and critical writing. The program is designed to provide a balance between core academic study and independent research, culminating in a final-year dissertation where students can explore a literary topic of their choice.
Research Focus: The University of Sussex is known for its vibrant and research-driven English department. The research focus in the BA (Hons) English program includes a wide variety of areas such as medieval literature, modernism, postcolonialism, contemporary literature, and gender studies. Faculty members at Sussex are internationally recognized for their research and bring this expertise into the classroom, ensuring students are exposed to the latest scholarship and research trends. In addition to engaging with literary theory and history, students are encouraged to pursue their own research interests and contribute to the academic community through their coursework and final-year projects.
Industry Engagement: The BA (Hons) English (with a Study Abroad Year) program at Sussex offers students several opportunities to engage with the industry. The university has strong connections with various cultural institutions, including literary agencies, publishing houses, media organizations, and arts organizations. Throughout the program, students can participate in workshops, networking events, and internships, gaining valuable experience in the literary and creative industries. Sussex also organizes guest lectures and talks with authors, journalists, and other professionals, providing students with a direct link to the world of publishing, journalism, and cultural production. Additionally, the study abroad year provides students with the opportunity to engage with different cultural and literary markets, allowing them to expand their professional networks internationally. This global experience is highly valued by employers, particularly in fields like publishing, journalism, public relations, and education.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) English (with a Study Abroad Year) program at Sussex is designed to provide students with a global perspective on English literature and culture. The year abroad allows students to immerse themselves in a new academic environment, gaining exposure to different literary traditions and cultural contexts. Sussex has a network of partner institutions across the world, offering students the chance to study in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe, among others. This global exposure not only broadens students’ academic knowledge but also enhances their intercultural competence and communication skills, preparing them for careers in an increasingly globalized world.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19050
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) English (with a Study Abroad Year) program at the University of Sussex are equipped with a diverse skill set, including critical thinking, advanced communication, and research capabilities, all of which are highly valued across various industries. The study abroad component enriches students’ global perspective, providing them with unique insights into different cultures and academic environments, which enhances their employability. The program’s comprehensive curriculum, strong academic foundation, and industry engagement opportunities ensure that graduates are well-prepared to enter the competitive job market in both the UK and internationally.
Publisher or Publishing Assistant: A common career path for English graduates is in the publishing industry. Graduates can work as publishers, editorial assistants, or book reviewers, helping to bring literary works to market. The program’s focus on literature and language, alongside the study abroad year, provides the necessary skills to work in publishing, where knowledge of global literary trends is crucial. Graduates can contribute to book production, editing, marketing, and distribution, working with major publishers, independent presses, or digital publishing platforms.
Journalist or Reporter: English graduates from Sussex are well-prepared to pursue careers in journalism, thanks to their strong writing, editing, and research skills. Whether working in print, broadcast, or digital media, graduates can become reporters, editors, or content creators. Their ability to analyze and communicate complex ideas in a clear, engaging way is invaluable in fields like news reporting, magazine writing, and digital journalism. The study abroad experience may also lead to opportunities in international reporting, writing for global publications, or working with international media outlets.
Public Relations (PR) Specialist: English graduates often pursue careers in public relations, where their communication and writing skills are critical. In PR, graduates may work as PR officers, media relations specialists, or social media managers, helping organizations shape their public image, communicate with the media, and manage campaigns. Their ability to craft compelling narratives and understand cultural contexts, enhanced by their study abroad experience, allows them to effectively communicate across various audiences and markets.
Teacher or Education Professional: Graduates of the BA (Hons) English program can also pursue careers in education. Whether teaching English in schools or delivering specialized English courses at colleges and universities, graduates can share their passion for literature and language with students. Additionally, English graduates are well-suited for roles such as education consultants, curriculum designers, or tutors. The study abroad year enhances their teaching abilities, especially in international contexts or when teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL).
Editor or Content Strategist: With the rise of digital media, content creation and strategy have become major industries. English graduates can work as editors or content strategists for websites, blogs, or digital marketing firms. These roles require strong writing and editing skills, as well as the ability to tailor content for specific audiences. Graduates with an understanding of global literary trends, gained through their study abroad experience, are especially equipped to work in international content creation and marketing.
Advertising and Marketing Specialist: Advertising agencies and marketing departments often seek English graduates for their creativity, strong writing skills, and ability to connect with audiences. Graduates can work in roles such as copywriting, advertising strategy, digital marketing, and brand management. Their ability to craft compelling stories, combined with their understanding of diverse cultural contexts gained through studying abroad, enables them to develop effective marketing campaigns that resonate with global audiences.
Researcher or Research Assistant: English graduates can also pursue careers in research, either within academia or for private or public sector organizations. Their strong research, writing, and analytical skills make them well-suited for positions that require the gathering, analysis, and presentation of information. Graduates can work as research assistants, analysts, or consultants in fields such as social sciences, media studies, cultural research, and policy analysis. The research-focused nature of their program, along with the exposure to global perspectives, makes them well-prepared to contribute to interdisciplinary research projects.
Author or Freelance Writer: For those with a passion for writing, becoming an author or freelance writer is a natural career path. Graduates can write novels, short stories, poetry, or non-fiction works. Freelance writers also work for magazines, websites, and businesses, producing content ranging from articles to promotional material. The program’s emphasis on creative writing, literary analysis, and critical theory, combined with the cultural insights gained from studying abroad, allows graduates to develop unique voices and narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Nonprofit or Charitable Organizations: English graduates are often drawn to careers in the nonprofit sector, where their skills in communication, research, and writing can contribute to social causes. Graduates can work in fundraising, communications, public affairs, or as advocacy officers for charities and NGOs. The cultural awareness and global perspective gained through studying abroad are particularly valuable when working on international development projects, human rights campaigns, or environmental initiatives.
Tourism and Cultural Heritage Manager: For graduates interested in the intersection of literature, culture, and tourism, careers in cultural heritage management or tourism offer exciting opportunities. Graduates can work as tour guides, cultural heritage managers, or travel writers, creating engaging narratives that highlight literary and historical landmarks. Their study abroad year, which exposes them to diverse cultures, makes them particularly well-suited for roles in international cultural tourism and heritage preservation.
