Best UK Universities for English Literature : Your Guide to Top Courses

Top UK universities for English Literature courses

Studying English at UK universities offers an exceptional chance to immerse yourself in the literary traditions and contemporary works of the English language. The UK's rich cultural heritage and academic excellence make it an ideal destination for literature lovers eager to explore its depths. Through this blog, you would be able to get an insight on the top best UK universities for English literature.

Here is a list of the top UK universities offering the best English Literature courses:

1. University of Oxford

The university is considered number one for its English programmes. The University of Oxford retains its prestigious status for English studies that dates back to the 12th century and has created world-class independent writers, scholars and critics in the English language.

Professors and lecturers teaching at Oxford are highly ranked in their area of expertise. The faculty publishes influential research papers that set standards for English literature.

Undergraduate courses

1. Classics and English 
2. English and Modern Languages
3. English Language and Literature
4. History and English

Tuition fees and entry requirements for all the above courses are: 

Tuition Fees	£41,130 for internationals
Course Duration	3 or 4 years
Academic Requirements	AAA in A-levels, AA/AAB in Advanced Highers

Candidates are expected to have English Literature, or English Language and Literature to A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB or any other equivalent.

Postgraduate Course

Currently, the university is offering 8 Masters courses in the Faculty of English and Literature. They are: 

1. English (1550-1700) MSt (9 months/full time)
2. English (1700-1830) MSt (9 months/full time)
3. English (1830-1914) MSt (9 months/full time)
4. English (1900-Present) MSt (9 months/full time)
5. English (​650-1550) MSt (9 months/full time)
6. English and American Studies MSt (9 months/full time)
7. English Studies (Mediaeval Period) MPhil (21 months/full time)
8. World Literatures in English MSt (9 months/full time)
   
   

Annual fees & academic requirements for entry in 2025-26 for above PG courses are mentioned below

Tuition Fees	£41,250 for internationals
Academic Requirements	A first-class or strong upper second-c undergraduate degree with honours in English literature and/or English language, or exceptionally a related subject
English Proficiency	IELTS minimum 7.5 overall. (no less than 7 in any subject)

2. University of Cambridge

The second university in the list, University of Cambridge also ranks Number 2 in the UK for English (The Complete University Guide 2024). Currently, Cambridge offers both UG and PG courses under the faculty of English and is considered the most prestigious and competitive English programme offered.

Undergraduate course:

1. English BA (hons) : Full-time, 3-year course, £25,800 per year tuition. (options available for scholarship and discount)

Postgraduate & PhD Course: 

2. MPhil in English Studies: Full-time, 9-month course, £28,824 pery tuition
3. MSt in English Language Assessment: Full time 2 years course, £14,175 per y tuition

* All fees for Year 1 must be paid in full in order to progress to Year 2

1. PhD in English: Full time/part time (3-4 years/ 4-7 years), research-bas £50,320 annual tuition.

* If you study part-time, the university composition fee will be 60% of the annual full-time fee for 5 years, or 75% of the annual full-time fee for 4 years.

Living Cost	£11,000 to £15,000 per year (dependin lifestyle and choice of international student)
Postgraduate Requirement	IELTS 7.5 (minimum 7 in all subskills), 2.1 in undergrad course.
For PhD entry	Overall score of 7.5 (a minimum of 7.0 in each individual component) a Masters Degree (with Merit)

3. University of St Andrews

Ranked first in the UK by The Guardian University Guide 2024, the School of English at St Andrews boasts a robust research output and a faculty of leading scholars. Their programmes span a wide array of literary periods and genres, from Anglo-Saxon to contemporary works.

Students can specialise in various fields, including mediaeval and Renaissance literature, 18th-century literature, Romantic and Victorian literature, as well as modern and contemporary creative writing.

English courses offered by the University of St Andrews for upcoming 2025 sessions are mentioned further below.

Undergraduate Courses:

1. English BA (International Honours)
2. English MA (Honours)
   
   

Duration	4 years (full time)
Starting Session	September Intake
Tuition fees
Academic Requirements	A-Levels: Minimum ABB, including A in English Literature
English Proficiency	If English is not your first language, you will need to provid English language test score to evidence your English language ability
Scholarship options	Scholarship for Excellence: $6,000 (USD) or $12,000 (USD) towards tui fees every year.

Postgraduate Courses:

1. Medieval English (MLitt)
2. Creative Writing (MLitt)
3. Playwriting and Screenwriting (MLitt)
4. Shakespeare and Renaissance Literary Culture (MLitt)
5. Modern and Contemporary Literature and Culture (MLitt)
6. Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) with optional specialism (MSc, PGD PGCert)
   
   

Annual fees & academic requirements for entry in 2025-26 for above PG courses are mentioned below

Duration	1 year (full time)
Starting Session	September Intake
Tuition fees	£25,900 per year
Academic Requirements	A  2.1 Honours undergraduate degree in a subject-related area For Bangladeshi degree - a master’s degree  GPA 3.5
English Proficiency	Overall IELTS 7.5 (minimum 7 across all components)
Scholarship	Research Council Scholarships - Offering up to 100% course fees for 3 years 15% Recent Graduate Discount

4. University of York

The degree programmes at the University of York offer a high degree of flexibility and choice. These programmes range from ancient classics to contemporary film and literature. They include creative writing options and opportunities to study literature produced in other languages.

For the upcoming September session, the university is set to offer a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. These courses are designed to cater to diverse interests and academic pursuits, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their passions.

Whether you're interested in delving into classic texts or exploring modern literary trends, York provides a comprehensive and adaptable curriculum to meet your needs with attractive scholarship options.

Undergraduate Courses:

1. BA (Hons) in English
2. English and Linguistics
3. English/Philosophy (Equal)
4. English/History (Equal)
5. English/Politics (Equal)
6. English/History of Art (Equal)
7. English Language and Linguistics
   
   

Duration	3 years (full time)
Starting Session	September Intake
Tuition fees	£25,800 per year  for International students
Academic Requirements	AAA/A*AB including an A in English Literature For HSC passed candidate check link.
English Proficiency	6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component
Scholarship	Dean's Global Excellence Scholarship: Full discount on first year and  £10,000 tuition fee discount for the second and third years. International Achievement Scholarship - £10,000 (first year of study only)

Postgraduate Courses:

1. English Literary Studies
2. Medieval Literatures and Languages
3. Eighteenth Century Studies
4. Modern and Contemporary Literature and Culture
5. Renaissance Literature 1500-1700
6. Victorian Literature and Culture
7. Literature in the Creative and Cultural Industries
8. Global Literature and Culture
   
   

Duration	1 year (full time) or 2 years (part time)
Starting Session	September Intake
Tuition fees	International students  £25,900 per year (full-time) £12,950 per year (part-time)
Academic Requirements	2:2 in undergraduate degree or equivalent
English Proficiency	6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component
Scholarship	Chevening Scholarships: one year of fully-funded postgraduate study in the UK for international (including EU) students English and Related Literature MA Scholarships: £1,000 MA Bursary: 5% discount on MA tuition fees

5. Loughborough University

Pursuing a degree in English at Loughborough University is ideal for graduates who aim to shape and understand the literary cultures of the 21st century. The courses provide an inclusive and hands-on approach to studying and creating texts, helping you deepen your knowledge and craft contemporary writing through peer learning and practical projects.

You'll have the opportunity to organise and host a literary festival, allowing you to actively engage with the modern literary scene. Additionally, you'll become part of a vibrant community of scholars and experts on campus who will support you in achieving your intellectual aspirations, be they academic, cultural, or commercial. The university is offering a handful of bachelors and specialised masters degrees. They are mentioned further.

Undergraduate Courses:

1. English BA (Hons)
2. English Literature BA (Hons)
3. English with Creative Writing BA (Hons)
4. English and Sport Science BA (Hons)
5. English with Business Studies BA (Hons)
6. Liberal Arts BA (Hons)
   
   

Annual fees & academic requirements for undergraduate entry in 2025-26

Duration	3 years (full time)
Starting Session	October 2025
Tuition fees	£23,950 to £26,500  yearly  for Internati students
Academic Requirements	AAB, including English (Literature, Language or both) We may also consider A-level grades A*AC with grade A in English (literacy, Language or both)
English Proficiency	6.5 overall with 6.0 in each individual element
Scholarship	25% off first-year tuition fees , Hardship fund available.

Postgraduate Courses:

1. Contemporary Literature and Culture MA
2. Creative Writing and the Writing Industries MA
3. Women in Historical Fiction of the English Civil War Era Creative/Critical PhD
4. Cultural Currents in the Nineteenth and Twentieth Century: Continuities between 'Victorian' 'Modernist' Literature, PhD

Postgraduate entry details for 2025-2026 sessions

Duration	1 year (full time) or 2 years (part time)
Starting Session	October 2025
Tuition fees	£25,500 yearly  for International students
Academic Requirements	2:2 (55%) honours degree or equivalent international qualification
English Proficiency	6.5 overall with 6.0 in each individual element
Scholarship	10% off tuition fees - Alumni Bursary 20% off tuition fees - Excellence Scholarship Up to 100% - Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships

6. Northumbria University

Northumbria University, located in Newcastle upon Tyne, is a modern and dynamic institution that offers English courses designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both the English language and its literary traditions. The programme is backed by a robust research environment and knowledgeable faculty members who are committed to student success.

An excellent choice for students who are passionate about literature and looking to develop their critical and analytical skills.

The programme's focus on both language and literature provides a well-rounded education, equipping students with the skills needed for a variety of careers. The opportunity to study as an internal student makes Northumbria University an excellent choice for internationals passionate about English literature.

Undergraduate Courses:

1. English Literature BA (Hons)
2. English Language and Literature BA (Hons)
3. English Literature and Creative Writing BA (Hons)
4. English Literature and History BA (Hons)
5. English Language Studies BA (Hons)
6. English Literature and American Studies BA (Hons)
   
   

Duration	3 years (full time)
Starting Session	September/January Intake
Tuition fees	£19,350 yearly  for International students
Academic Requirements	GCSE Requirements: Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, o equivalent.
English Proficiency	overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component
Scholarship	Up to £3,000

Postgraduate Courses:

1. English Language and Linguistics MA
2. English Literature MRes
3. English Literature MA
4. Education (Teaching and Learning) MA
   
   

Duration	1 year (full time)
Starting Session	September/January Intake
Tuition fees	£18,250 yearly  for International students
Academic Requirements	A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree in Linguistics, English Language relevant related discipline
English Proficiency	IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 with no composite prestige, u 6.0
Scholarship	£2,000 fee discount or more

7. University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh is highly regarded for its English Literature programme due to its historical prestige, being home to the oldest department of English Literature in the UK, established over 250 years ago. This long history of excellence is enough to attract students who are eager to be part of a prestigious institution.

The city's UNESCO World City of Literature status enriches students' experiences with a vibrant literary culture. The university’s undergraduate, masters and PhD programmes offer a diverse curriculum, extensive research opportunities, and are taught by world-class English scholars.

Students can benefit from the institution’s supportive community, study abroad options, and excellent career prospects, making it a top choice for those literature lovers. Courses relating to English and literature are further discussed below.

Undergraduate Courses:

1. MA English Language
2. MA English Literature
3. MA English Language and Literature
4. MA English Literature and Classics
5. MA English Literature and History
6. MA English and Scottish Literature
7. MA History of Art and English Literature
8. MA Linguistics and English Language
   
   

Duration	4 Years (full time)
Starting Session	September/January Intake
Tuition fees	£28,000 yearly  for International students (increases e year)
Academic Requirements	A Levels: ABB * HSC degree not considered for direct entry
English Proficiency	IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component.

Postgraduate Courses:

1. English Language MSc
2. English Language MScR
3. English Literature MScR
4. English Literature PhD
5. Linguistics and English Language PhD
6. Creative Writing MSc
7. Creative Writing PhD
   
   

Masters: £30,500 (full-time)
PhD : £27,600 (full-time) & £13,800.00 (part-time) yearly for internationals

Duration	Masters: 1 year (full time), 2 years (part-time)  PhD : 3 years (full-time), 6 years (part-time)
Starting Session	September/January Intake
Tuition fees
Academic Requirements	Masters: A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in discipline PhD: A UK masters degree, or its international equivalent, in creative writing, normally with distinction
English Proficiency	IELTS (Academic) score of 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component
Scholarship Options	More details are available in the link

8. University of Birmingham

Enrolling in an English Literature course at the University of Birmingham means becoming part of a lively and dynamic research community. The department is known for its wide range of research interests and varied approaches, offering a rich environment for literary exploration.

You'll have the opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research and collaborate with experienced academics.

This vibrant community helps to develop intellectual growth, encourages a deep understanding of literary studies, and  prepares you for a successful career in the field. By enrolling yourself at the University of Birmingham, you'll be immersed in an enriching academic experience that extends beyond the classroom and into the heart of contemporary literary scholarship.

Undergraduate Courses:

1. English Literature BA
2. English Language and Literature BA
3. English Language and Philosophy BA
4. English Literature and Philosophy BA
5. English Language and Linguistics BA
6. English Literature and Film BA
7. Modern Languages and English Literature BA
8. English Literature and Creative Writing BA
9. English Literature with Shakespeare Studies BA
10. BA English Literature and Digital Media and Communications
11. BA English Literature
12. BA English Language and Literature
13. BA English Literature and Classical Literature & Civilisation
14. BA English Literature and History of Art
15. BA English Literature and History

 

More details about all the above-mentioned courses:

Duration	3 years
Starting Session	September Intake
Course Types	Single Honours or Joint Honours combined
Tuition fees	£25,520 (International)
Academic Requirements	A-levels: 2A , 1B

Postgraduate Course:

1. English Literature MA
2. Arabic-English-Arabic Translation MA
3. English Literature PhD/MA by Research (On-Campus or by Distance Learning)
4. Postgraduate Certificate Secondary Education (QTS) - English PGCE
5. Creative Writing PhD (On-Campus or by Distance Learning)

 

More details about all the above mentioned courses:

Duration	Masters: 1 year (full time) PhD : 3 years + 1 year research PGCE : 36 weeks
Starting Session	September or January
Course Types	Single Honours or Joint Honours combined
Annual Tuition fees	Masters: £26,180 for International PhD : £22,600 full-time, £11,300 part-time (distance learning only) PGCE: £27,200 (full-time)
Academic Requirements	Masters & PhD: CGPA of 3.0-3.3/4.0 or higher for 2:1 equivalency from a recognised institution PGCE: 2:2 Honours Degree
English Proficiency	IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band

9. University of Manchester

Regarded as one of the top universities in the UK, the English Literature programme at Manchester is renowned for its diverse and comprehensive approach to literary studies, incorporating historical, theoretical, and critical perspectives.

The University of Manchester offers a range of English language and literature courses at both undergraduate, postgraduate and research  opportunities levels for the 2024-2025 academic year. 

Undergraduate Courses:

1. English Language BA (Hons)
2. History and English Literature BA Art (hons)
3. English Literature BA (hons) BA English Literature with Creative Writing
4. English Language and English Literature
5. Drama and English Literature, 
6. English Language and Arabic
7. English Literature and Spanish
8. Film Studies and English Language
9. Film Studies and English Literature
10. Latin and English Literature, etc
    
    

Course Duration	Ranges from 3-4 years full-time study
Tuition Fees	£26,500 per annum for Internati Students
Academic Requirements	IELTS 7.0 overall with no less than 6.5 in any component. A-level : 2 A 1B (at least Grade C or 4 in GCSE/iGCSE English Language and Mathematics)

Postgraduate Courses:

1. English Literature and American Studies
2. Modern and Contemporary Literature
3. PGCE Secondary English
4. PGCE Secondary English with Lead Programme Partners
5. English and American Studies
   
   

Course Duration	1 year full-time for Masters & PGCE PhD : 3 years (full-time), 6 years (part-time)
Tuition Fees (international students)	PGCE: £23,500 MA: £27,000 (full-time), £13,500 (part-time) PhD: £22,000 (full-time), £11,000 (part-time)
Academic Requirements	PhD: Bachelor's (Honours) degree at 2:1 and Master's degree in a relevant subject  Masters : First or Upper Second class honours degree or its overseas equivalent PGCE: Minimum 2:2 honours degree in English Literature, English Language, Linguistics or a joint honours degree with at least 50% of these subjects
English Proficiency	IELTS test minimum score – 7.0 overall, 7.0 in wri and no skill below 6.5

10. Newcastle University

Globally acclaimed for its research excellence and academic brilliance, it ranks 5th in the UK for Creative writing (The Complete University Guide 2025) and 1st in the UK for English Language and Literature research (Research Excellence Framework 2021, Times Higher Education).

The English language-related courses offered by Newcastle University provide immersive literary and linguistic study for English, especially in literature research. Courses related to English are mentioned further below. 

Undergraduate Courses: 

1. English Literature BA Honours 
2. English Language and Literature 
3. English Literature with Creative Writing 
4. English Language BA Honours 
5. English Literature and History 
6. Classical Studies and English 
7. Linguistics BA Honours 
8. Modern Languages and Linguistics
   
   

Tuition fees and entry requirements on all the above courses for September 2025-2026 Intake: 

Duration	3 or 4 years
Course Fee	£23,800 Yearly
Academic Requirements	AAB in A-levels,  English & literature as main subjects.

9. Study Abroad with English: A Foundation-Based Course Offered by Newcas University. 

Duration	Full-time course with 2 terms
Course Category	The course has two parts
Tuition Fees	£11,275 (Increases every year)
Requirements	Minimum 5.0 IELTS to join Part 1, and minimum 6.0 IELTS to progres Part 2
Eligible Age	Age must be 17 or older

Postgraduate and PHD courses offered for 2025 entry:

1. English Literature MLitt English Literature MPhil
2. PhD Engl Language and/or Linguistics MLitt
3. Linguistics and English Language Integrated PhD
4. Creative Writing MA, PGCert
   
   

Duration	Full-time 1 year, part-time 2 years
Course Fees	Annually £23,700 for Masters degree & £8,365 annually PGCert
Entry Requirements	Academic Requirements 2:1 in honours degree international equivalent, in any discipline & IELTS 7.0 overall (with a minimum of 6.5 in all other sub-skills) is required to enrol in any of the courses mentioned above.

Final words

Choosing the best UK university for English literature depends on your specific interests and career goals. Each of the universities mentioned above offers unique strengths, whether it's a strong research focus, a diverse curriculum, or a supportive learning environment.

By considering factors such as course content, faculty expertise, and research options, you can find the best programme that suits your academic needs. Whether you're drawn to the literary heritage of Oxford and Cambridge or the innovative approaches of York and Northumbria, the UK has tonnes of prestigious options for English studies.