University of Reading United Kingdom

BA Art and English Literature

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Explore the dynamic interplay between visual creation and literary expression with the BA Art and English Literature at the University of Reading. This undergraduate degree is designed for those fascinated by how art and literature shape culture, challenge perceptions, and reflect societal shifts. You will delve into contemporary art practices, global art histories, and the rich tapestry of English literature from diverse eras and regions. By examining artistic and literary works side-by-side, you will develop a sophisticated understanding of critical analysis and creative expression, preparing you for a world that values interdisciplinary thinking.

This full-time, four-year on-campus programme offers a unique blend of studio-based art practice and in-depth literary study. You will engage with a wide range of media, experiment with new art forms, and refine your critical voice through modules covering everything from Renaissance poetry to modern American culture. Your learning journey will include practical studio work, critical writing, and the opportunity to undertake an independent dissertation in your final year, allowing you to pursue a topic of personal interest. You will graduate with a versatile skill set, ready for careers in the creative industries, cultural heritage, publishing, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA program offers a comprehensive exploration of both visual arts and English literature. Students will engage in foundational art studio practices alongside critical studies of poetry, drama, and various literary periods and genres. The curriculum progresses through different academic years, allowing for specialization in areas such as modernism, contemporary fiction, or specific national literatures, while also developing practical art skills and culminating in a dissertation.

1 YEAR 1

Art Studio Compulsory
Drawing Compulsory
Theory and Practice of Writing Compulsory
Poetry in English Compulsory
Introduction to Drama Optional
Modern American Culture and Counterculture Optional
Shelf Life Optional
What is Comparative Literature? Optional
Thinking Translation: History and Theory Optional

2 YEAR 2

Art Studio 2 Compulsory
History of Art 3 Optional
International Study Optional
Myth, Legend and Romance: Medieval Storytelling Optional
Modernism in Poetry and Fiction Optional
Contemporary Fiction Optional
Writing America: Perspectives on the Nation Optional
Critical Thinking Optional
Early Modern Literature Optional
The Business of Books Optional
Writing in the Public Sphere Optional
Enlightenment Revolution and Romanticism Optional

3 YEAR 3

Art Studio 2b Compulsory
Situated Art Practice Compulsory
Black British Fiction Optional
Virginia Woolf and Bloomsbury Optional
Publishing Cultures: Writers, Publics, Archives Optional
Nigerian Prose Literature: From Achebe to Adichie Optional
Medieval Otherworlds Optional
Environment, Ecology and Literature Optional
Decadence and Degeneration: Literature of the 1880s and 1890s Optional
Bibliotherapy: Writing and Health Optional
Children's Literature Optional
The Bloody Stage Optional
From Romance to Fantasy Optional

4 YEAR 4

Art Studio 3b Compulsory
Dissertation for Art and English Literature Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 139,765.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 467.00 - USD 1,787.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on London Road Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising Finance & OperationsBrand ManagementBroadcasting & TelevisionMarketing Analytics & Data ManagementMedia Planning & BuyingMedia Production & EditingMedia Research & AnalyticsSocial Media & Community ManagementStreaming & Digital ContentTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Sky Group

Why Study BA Art and English Literature at University of Reading

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Reading in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA Art and English Literature at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English test requirements, you can provide scores from tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Ensure your scores meet the specified thresholds for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as artists, art curators, art educators, literary critics, or museum professionals.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree involves practical work in art studios and the exploration of English literature across various eras. You will engage with contemporary art theory and participate in exhibitions to enhance your learning experience.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA Art and English Literature program starts in September. Make sure to prepare your documents and meet any prerequisites before applying.
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