BA (Hons) Education Studies and English Literature

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Education Studies and English Literature program provides a balanced and integrated study of the foundations of education and the rich tapestry of English literary tradition. It emphasizes a critical and analytical approach to understanding how individuals learn, how educational systems function, and the profound influence of literature on shaping perspectives, fostering empathy, and developing critical literacy. The program encourages students to explore the theoretical underpinnings of education and the diverse interpretations of literary texts, and to consider the practical implications of these insights in various contexts. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, discussions, and research-based activities, students develop a comprehensive understanding of both fields.

Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a progressive learning experience, starting with foundational modules that introduce key theories and concepts in both education studies and English literature. In education studies, students explore learning theories, the history and sociology of education, and the principles of curriculum and assessment. In English literature, they study foundational literary texts, critical approaches, and the historical development of literature. As students advance, they engage with more specialized modules, such as inclusive education, adolescent development, literary theory, Shakespeare, modern literature, postcolonial literature, and children's literature. The program encourages students to explore the connections between education and literature, understanding how literary analysis can inform teaching practices and how educational contexts shape the reception and interpretation of literature. A significant component involves developing research skills through the design and execution of research projects, alongside critical essays and textual analyses of literary works.

Research Focus: The University of Worcester fosters a research-informed teaching environment within its Institute of Education and the School of Humanities, which directly benefits the BA (Hons) Education Studies and English Literature program. Faculty members are actively engaged in research across various areas of education and literary studies, including literacy development, educational policy, contemporary literature, Shakespearean studies, and the pedagogy of literature. Students benefit from being taught by academics who are actively contributing to their fields and may have opportunities to engage with research through their studies and final-year dissertations. The program aims to cultivate a research-oriented mindset, encouraging students to critically evaluate existing research and contribute their own analytical insights to understanding education and literature.

Industry Engagement: While the BA (Hons) Education Studies and English Literature program is primarily an academic degree, it recognizes the importance of connecting students with relevant professional fields. The curriculum may incorporate guest lectures from educators, writers, publishers, and individuals working in related sectors. The University of Worcester actively seeks to build and maintain links with local schools, educational organizations, and literary institutions. This engagement may include opportunities for volunteering, observation placements, and career-focused workshops, providing students with valuable insights into potential career pathways and the practical application of their knowledge and skills.

Global Perspective: The University of Worcester welcomes a diverse international student body, enriching the learning experience within the BA (Hons) Education Studies and English Literature program. Education and literature are inherently global phenomena, with diverse educational systems and a rich tapestry of world literature. The program encourages students to develop an understanding of different educational approaches and the global significance of English literature, exploring works from various cultural backgrounds and historical periods. Discussions and analyses often incorporate international examples, and students have opportunities to interact with peers from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a global perspective essential for understanding the diverse landscape of education and literary expression in the world today.