English Literature and History with a Year Abroad BA (Hons)

English Literature and History is a diverse and stimulating joint honours degree that explores the past and its cultural representations across more than 1,500 years. You will study historical events and literary texts side by side, gaining insight into how stories, ideas, and experiences shape societies across time.

Through literature ranging from the medieval period to the present day, and historical study that spans global and local perspectives, you will explore themes such as identity, gender, race, nationhood, culture, and the environment. This combined approach helps you understand how people have interpreted and recorded their world, and how those interpretations continue to shape contemporary debate.

The degree balances structure with flexibility, allowing you to build a strong foundation in both subjects while tailoring your studies to the themes and periods that interest you the most. You will develop valuable skills in critical thinking, research, communication, and analysis, working with a range of materials and producing outputs such as essays, archival research, creative writing, blogs, and zine-making.

You can broaden your horizons through opportunities to study abroad for a semester in destinations such as the USA, Canada, China, Hong Kong, or Singapore, an enriching experience that enhances both your academic development and your future career prospects.

You can also choose to take a Year Abroad or Year in Industry. Whether you spend time studying overseas or gaining paid workplace experience, these pathways help build your confidence, skills, and employability.

An optional Foundation Year is available if you would like additional preparation before starting the degree. It offers an engaging introduction to university study, helping you develop the skills and confidence needed for success. After completing the Foundation Year, you will progress onto Year 1 of your BA.

Kickstart a bright future at Swansea University.

With around 300,000 residents, Swansea isn’t the biggest city this side of the Severn, but she’s got a big personality with a cost of living that’s refreshingly affordable compared to most other UK cities. Whether you like to explore the outdoors, take in a bit of culture, or anything in between, Swansea has something for everyone.

As a student at Swansea University, you'll benefit from a friendly, inclusive community and opportunities to gain skills that last a lifetime. Alongside first-class resources that include a mock court room, indoor athletics centre & virtual reality lab, you'll learn from leading academics, in a supportive and nurturing environment.

With 120 societies, 50 sports clubs and 12 months of must-see events, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy between lectures.

Whoever you are and whoever you want to be, you'll find yourself right at home in Swansea.