MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) English
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) English program at the University of Sussex is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of literature, culture, and critical theory, while fostering the development of key skills in analysis, writing, and research. This program offers a comprehensive exploration of English literature, spanning classical works to contemporary texts. Students will engage with various literary forms, such as novels, poetry, drama, and essays, and examine them in historical, cultural, and theoretical contexts. The course not only develops students’ literary analysis skills but also prepares them for a wide range of professional careers, equipping them with transferable skills such as critical thinking, communication, and creativity. The program at Sussex is research-led, offering students the opportunity to learn from experts and engage with cutting-edge literary criticism, all within a supportive academic environment.
Curriculum: The BA (Hons) English curriculum at Sussex is structured to balance foundational knowledge with specialized study. In the first year, students engage with core modules that cover the fundamentals of English literature, including an introduction to literary analysis, key literary periods, and the exploration of major authors and texts. As students progress, they can tailor their studies to their specific interests through elective modules in areas such as modern literature, postcolonial theory, gender studies, creative writing, and digital humanities. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking and scholarly research, encouraging students to analyze texts from various perspectives, including historical, cultural, and theoretical contexts. The final year allows students to undertake an independent research project or dissertation on a topic of their choosing, fostering intellectual independence and expertise in their chosen area of study. The curriculum encourages a broad and interdisciplinary approach, with a focus on both traditional literary texts and contemporary critical debates.
Research Focus: At the University of Sussex, research in English is at the forefront of the program. Faculty members are active researchers in a variety of fields, including modern and contemporary literature, postcolonial studies, gender and sexuality, and cultural theory. The English department is renowned for its innovative research, particularly in the areas of literary theory, the politics of literature, and interdisciplinary approaches to text analysis. Students benefit from being part of a research-driven environment, where they have access to the latest scholarly work and the opportunity to engage in discussions with leading academics. Research projects are often cross-disciplinary, drawing connections between literature, history, philosophy, and cultural studies. Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests and pursue independent projects, supported by the department's expertise and resources. This research focus not only informs the curriculum but also shapes the intellectual development of students, preparing them for advanced academic study or careers in research.
Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex provides a strong connection between academic study and industry practice, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the professional world. The BA (Hons) English program offers opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships, placements, and work-based learning. Sussex has strong links with the publishing industry, media organizations, schools, and cultural institutions, providing students with direct access to professionals and potential employers. These connections allow students to apply their literary and analytical skills in real-world settings, such as publishing houses, media companies, and heritage organizations. The university’s career services offer support with job placements, internships, CV writing, and interview preparation. Furthermore, students have the chance to attend guest lectures, workshops, and networking events with industry leaders, giving them valuable insights into their chosen field and enhancing their employability after graduation.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) English program at Sussex emphasizes a global perspective, encouraging students to engage with literature from around the world and consider its broader cultural and historical implications. The program includes the study of international literary traditions, as well as global issues such as colonialism, migration, and globalization, which are explored through both historical and contemporary texts. The University of Sussex is a hub for international students and offers opportunities for study abroad, enabling students to experience different educational systems and cultural contexts. This international outlook enriches the learning experience and prepares students for careers in a globalized world. The university’s diverse academic community also provides students with a broader range of perspectives and ideas, further enhancing their ability to critically engage with literature and culture from a global standpoint.
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.
The BA (Hons) English program at the University of Sussex equips graduates with a wide range of valuable skills, including advanced writing, critical thinking, analysis, and research. These skills are highly sought after in a diverse array of industries, offering English graduates from Sussex a broad spectrum of career opportunities. The program’s emphasis on literary analysis, communication, and cultural understanding prepares students to thrive in a variety of professional fields, including publishing, media, education, and beyond.
Publisher or Editorial Assistant: Many graduates pursue careers in publishing, working as editorial assistants, copy editors, or literary agents. These roles involve reviewing, editing, and preparing manuscripts for publication, as well as developing content for journals, books, or digital media. The program’s strong focus on reading, writing, and literary analysis makes graduates highly competitive candidates for positions in both traditional publishing houses and digital media platforms.
Journalist or Writer: The writing skills developed throughout the program make English graduates ideal candidates for careers in journalism. Whether in print, broadcast, or digital media, graduates can work as reporters, feature writers, or editors, producing content on a wide range of topics, including culture, politics, history, and current events. Additionally, many graduates choose to become freelance writers, authors, or content creators, publishing books, articles, and other literary works.
Teacher or Lecturer: Many BA (Hons) English graduates opt for careers in education, teaching English literature or language at the secondary school or college level. Some pursue further qualifications, such as postgraduate certifications in education, to teach at higher levels. Those with an interest in academia can also continue their studies with postgraduate degrees, eventually teaching English and literary theory at the university level.
Content Creator or Copywriter: English graduates’ proficiency in writing, creativity, and storytelling makes them well-suited for content creation and copywriting roles. Whether writing for marketing campaigns, websites, social media, or advertisements, graduates can work as copywriters or content creators in advertising agencies, marketing departments, or freelance positions. The ability to craft compelling messages and narratives is essential in these fields.
Public Relations (PR) Specialist: A career in PR involves managing and improving the public image of organizations, brands, or individuals. Graduates with strong communication skills can work as PR specialists, drafting press releases, managing media relationships, and organizing events. English graduates can also work in internal communications, helping companies communicate effectively with employees and stakeholders.
Researcher or Academic: Graduates with a passion for research can pursue careers in academic research or as research assistants in universities or private think tanks. English graduates are well-equipped to conduct in-depth analysis, critique literary texts, and explore cultural studies. Many graduates also choose to pursue postgraduate education (such as a Master’s or PhD) to continue their academic journey and eventually teach at the university level.
Marketing or Digital Marketing Specialist: English graduates possess strong communication skills that can be applied in marketing, particularly in content development and strategy. Graduates can work as content marketers, social media managers, or brand strategists. Their ability to craft persuasive and engaging content is an asset in the digital marketing landscape, where content is a driving force in promoting products and services.
Advertising Copywriter: With their expertise in language and storytelling, English graduates often thrive in advertising. As copywriters, they create compelling messages and taglines for brands, campaigns, and advertisements. Whether for print, television, radio, or digital media, copywriting allows graduates to use their creativity to influence consumer behavior and drive sales.
Heritage and Museum Professional: English graduates can also work in the heritage sector, including roles as museum curators, archivists, or cultural heritage consultants. These positions involve preserving, interpreting, and presenting historical texts, artifacts, and exhibits to the public. Graduates can apply their understanding of literature and history to engage visitors and promote cultural education.
Nonprofit Sector or Charity Work: Many English graduates choose to work in nonprofit organizations or charitable foundations, particularly those focused on education, cultural preservation, or social justice. These roles might involve writing grant proposals, managing communications, or creating educational programs. Graduates can also work in advocacy, raising awareness on various social issues through compelling narratives and campaigns.
Social Media Manager or Community Manager: English graduates’ understanding of storytelling and communication can be well-suited for social media management or community management roles. These professionals craft posts, engage with audiences, and develop strategies to grow a brand’s online presence. Strong writing and a deep understanding of culture and media are key components of success in these roles.
Film or Television Scriptwriter: Graduates with an interest in creative writing and storytelling can work as scriptwriters for film, television, or web series. English graduates are skilled in constructing narratives and developing characters, making them ideal candidates for writing scripts for various forms of media. Scriptwriting roles often require creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to understand audience expectations, all of which are fostered in the BA (Hons) English program.
