University of Hertfordshire United Kingdom

BA (Hons) Philosophy and English Literature

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Philosophy and English Literature from the University of Hertfordshire invites you to explore the profound connections between critical thought and creative expression. This undergraduate degree is ideal for those who seek to understand the world through rigorous analysis and imaginative engagement, delving into complex ideas and diverse literary traditions. You will develop a sophisticated understanding of philosophical inquiry and literary interpretation, equipping you to critically examine societal structures, human experience, and the very nature of meaning. This course is designed for intellectually curious students eager to refine their analytical and argumentative skills.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over three years, engaging with a curriculum that balances core philosophical concepts with a wide array of literary periods and genres. Through small group teaching and opportunities for in-depth discussion, you will explore texts ranging from classical philosophy to contemporary fiction, and delve into subjects like ethics, metaphysics, and literary theory. The syllabus offers pathways for practical application, including optional modules in employability skills, a literature project, and the chance to undertake a placement or year abroad. You will graduate with a versatile skill set, prepared for careers in education, publishing, research, or further postgraduate study.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Philosophy and English Literature program offers a comprehensive exploration of philosophical thought and literary analysis. Students will engage with core philosophical concepts such as reason, ethics, and metaphysics, alongside a diverse range of literary periods and genres. The curriculum progresses through foundational, intermediate, and advanced levels, culminating in opportunities for specialized study, research projects, or professional placements.

1 Level 4 Modules

Reason and persuasion Compulsory
Religion and the contemporary world Optional
Social and political philosophy Optional
Mind, knowledge and reality Optional
The meaning of life Optional
Ethics Optional
Philosophy of fiction Optional
Sci-fi, philosophy, and religion Optional

2 Level 5 Modules

Themes in Plato's republic Compulsory
The right and the good Optional
Philosophy of mind Optional
Knowledge and discovery Optional
Philosophy of art Optional
Metaphysics Optional
Philosophies of religion Optional
Logic and philosophy Optional
Employability skills Optional
Philosophy of love and sex Optional

3 Level 6 Modules

Year abroad Compulsory
The humanities placement year Compulsory
Placement with study abroad Compulsory
Contemporary moral philosophy P Compulsory
Aristotle P Optional
Eighteenth century bodies Optional
Literature project Optional
Between the acts: late Victorian and Edwardian literature 1890-1920 Optional
Children's literature:growing up in books Optional
Philosophy of language Optional
Texts and screens: studies in literary adaptation Optional
African-American literature Optional
Philosophy of psychology Optional
Political philosophy Optional
Generation dead: young adult fiction and the gothic Optional
Religion and modern thought Optional
Twenty-first century American writing Optional
Euro-crime on page and screen Optional
Kierkegaard, philosophy and religion Optional
Wittgenstein: meaning and forms of life Optional
Nietzsche then and now Optional
Bullshit, lying, and other forms of bad language Optional
Philosophy of music Optional
Ethics for the 21st century Optional
Philosophy of race and gender Optional
Philosophy short project Optional
The literary professional Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

9% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,551.00 USD 21,579.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,579.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,579.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 62,710.00 USD 64,739.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,126.00 - USD 1,559.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on College Lane Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agribusiness Inputs (Seeds, Fertilizers & Machinery)Digital MarketingEarly Childhood & Primary EducationGovernment & Regulatory AgenciesInsurance & Risk ManagementMuseums & Cultural HeritageRestaurant & Food ServiceRetail & GroceryTalent & Artist ManagementTextile & Fabric Development

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Framestore

J D Wetherspoon

National Farmers'​ Union

Sainsbury's

Tesco

The British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT)

University of Hertfordshire

Why Study BA (Hons) Philosophy and English Literature at University of Hertfordshire

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Fast Application response time

University of Hertfordshire typically responds to applications within a week, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Hertfordshire 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 (Hons) Philosophy and English Literature at University of Hertfordshire

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English test requirements. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, each with minimum scores outlined on the program website.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Writer, Editor, Teacher, Researcher, and Literary Critic.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree explores themes in literature and philosophical questions about meaning in life. You'll engage with diverse perspectives and learn to critically analyze texts and construct your own arguments.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Philosophy and English Literature program has an intake month in September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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