Many philosophers – Ludwig Wittgenstein and Stanley Cavell, for example – have taken language or literature as the subject of their reflections. Both subjects require students to consider the biggest questions for humankind, and to develop an alert awareness of the use of language, form and narrative in exploring these questions. As an English Literature and Philosophy student at Keele, you'll be encouraged to delve deep into a range of literary works, which may include authors such as Emily Bronte, Aphra Behn, Tsitsi Dangarembga and J M Coetzee whilst exploring different philosophical traditions past and present. Ethical and epistemological issues are central to great works of poetry and prose. This programme encourages complementary skills and sensitivities in language use and interpretation. 

Our intellectually stimulating and engaging approach to exploring novels, poetry, drama, graphic novels and other types of literature produce intelligent, perceptive, socially aware and compassionate individuals who are able to make a real impact. You'll tackle a range of issues and unprecedented challenges of our cultural moment, which could include decolonisation, sustainability and the environment, gender and sexuality, migration, political extremism, or the role of literature as an arbiter of truth in an era of information overload and fake news.

Studying English Literature and Philosophy at Keele enables you to develop key skills in reading, writing and critical thinking. You will explore and interpret texts that will challenge your views, advance your tastes, prompt your creativity, and give you the opportunity to become a versatile graduate. Through a range of activities and assessments, our diverse course will equip you with a wide array of attributes that employers are looking for, including problem solving, creativity, emotional intelligence, and digital literacy. You will pursue your passions, grow in confidence, and gain a unique set of transferable skills that will be invaluable for your future career in a variety of sectors.

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