Writers and philosophers consider the same universal questions using different approaches. By studying English Literature and Philosophy together, you get to read and discuss the literature you love with staff and students in our world-famous School of Literature, Drama and Creative Writing, while also exploring the deep philosophical questions with philosophy students and staff, who will make you think twice and read again. 

Our degree course provides roughly equal proportions of both subjects, but there’s scope to adjust the balance towards more literature or more philosophy if you wish, as your interests deepen. In fact, there are staff in both departments whose research and teaching interests cross between the two disciplines. And in your second year you’ll have a co-taught module that combines the two together in an exciting way – all of which makes for a university experience you’ll never forget. 

ABOUT

How are we to live? What is justice? How can our minds know the world? What is truth? Can we prove anything about God? How do we tell good reasoning from bad? 

The study of philosophy considers these questions in a systematic attempt to make sense of human life and the world in which we live. And literature is another, equally important way that we try to make sense of human life and the questions it raises. 

In this course you will discover how these two disciplines spark off each other to deepen your understanding of both. You’ll discover how philosophers and writers explore existential aspects of the human condition in diverse ways. You’ll examine the literary artistry of thinkers such as Plato and Nietzsche, who invite us into philosophy in exciting and unexpected ways. And you’ll discuss how novels, poems and dramatic works uncover special kinds of truth about the world. 

To study literature and philosophy together is to understand the influence one has on the other – and the way different minds work. Approached together in a single degree they’re incredibly stimulating, with the study of one enriching your study of the other. 

You’ll especially love this course if you’re interested in existential and intellectual themes in literature. You’ll choose from the full range of modules in both Philosophy and English Literature, developing skills in both fields. Interdisciplinary links are emphasised, and in your second year you will take a dedicated module that brings the two subjects together. 

PLACEMENT YEAR AND STUDY ABROAD

You could expand your horizons by choosing to spend a semester of your second year studying abroad at one of UEA’s partner universities. You’d spend the Autumn semester completing three modules at UEA, then transfer overseas in the Spring.

You will not only experience life in a different country and make international connections, you’ll also make yourself even more attractive to prospective employers who value the skills of resourcefulness and resilience that studying abroad will bring you.

AFTER THE COURSE

UEA English Literature and Philosophy graduates have gone on to do great things in a wide range of professions. The reasoning and critical thinking skills that you’ll develop will prepare you for all kinds of roles in the professional sphere. They include: 

• Precise and effective communication skills 

• The ability to analyse data and information, and to correct faulty reasoning 

• Listening carefully to others, with empathy and rigorous attention to detail 

• Innovative and original ideas supported by reason 

• The ability to use your imagination, think creatively, and offer critical appraisal 

CAREER DESTINATIONS

Examples of careers you could enter include:

• Law

• Journalism

• The Civil Service

• Cultural industries

• Teaching or lecturing

• Charity and environmental work