Music and English Literature Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

Our BA in Music and English Literature combines literature, music and culture with creative and practical skills development.

You'll develop your critical and creative thinking, your understanding and appreciation of diversity, and high-level of communication skills. You’ll also develop resilience, independence and a wide range of transferable skills valued by employers.

We’re interested in the connections between literature and film, art, history, technology, language and everyday life. So, when studying writing across different periods, cultures and principal literary genres, you won’t be restricted only to the printed word. You’ll also explore how literature addresses social, environmental and economic concerns, and how it can contribute to a better, more inclusive world and sustainable solutions for the future of the planet.

Alongside this, you'll develop your understanding of music theory and how to critically and reflectively assess styles and techniques. You'll also be encouraged to take full advantage of our ensembles, representing a wide range of musical repertoires and traditions. These include Jazz Ensemble, Symphonic Winds, Symphony Orchestra, Gamelan Ensemble, Chamber Choir, Chamber Orchestra, Lanyi (West African Ensemble), Symphony Chorus and the Pop Collective.

You’ll also benefit from studying in Wales’ capital city. Cardiff is a creative and cultural hub with a rich artistic and literary heritage. The city is home to Welsh National Opera and BBC National Orchestra of Wales, with which we enjoy long-established and rewarding relationships.

Throughout your studies, you'll develop independent, creative and critical skills in responding to literature and other forms of culture, such as film, art and photography. You'll develop your ability to analyse texts and arguments, work through problems with others, construct your own arguments, and present your ideas clearly. These skills will transfer flexibily into a range of different careers, in the arts and creative industries or beyond.

Distinctive features of the programme

Professional experience

Explore the music business and build your professional skills through a placement.

Adventure and exploration

Opportunities to study abroad in Europe and beyond, fostering independence and resilience.

Communicate effectively

Develop employability skills and experience in presenting your ideas in speech and writing.

Performance support

Realise your full potential through fully funded instrumental tuition.

Change the future

Explore how literature addresses social, environmental and economic concerns, and how it can contribute to a better, more inclusive world.