Journalism and English

The BA in Journalism and English offers you the best of old and new: a grounding in the cornerstones of English literature and the ability to reflect on the place of digital and social media in the 21st century media ecosystem and apply this knowledge to your future career.

There’s a natural and well-established connection between Journalism and English and this course allows you to study both subject areas equally in a complementary experience, developing a critical understanding of the key concepts, theories and debates around both Journalism and English.

You'll enjoy the best of old and new: a grounding in the cornerstones of English literature and the ability to reflect on the place of digital and social media in the 21st century media ecosystem and apply this knowledge to your future career.

You'll develop and demonstrate a range of transferable skills necessary for successful career development and a lifetime of effective independent learning. You’ll fine-tune your independent thinking, analytical problem-solving and critical judgement. You’ll learn how to carry out independent research; to access and assess information, to communicate clearly and effectively, and to present findings in a professional manner.

In your first year, you’ll learn the basic skills of journalism across various platforms, helping you to develop the key professional skills utilised by journalists. You'll develop crucial English skills and be introduced to key concepts, genres and texts as you explore the richness of literature.

In your second year, you'll use your developing journalism skills on digital and broadcasting platforms. You’ll also choose optional English modules in order to focus on texts and periods of literature that interest you, and explore your careers options.

In your third year you can study either a Journalism or English dissertation. You'll also use all your knowledge and journalism skills in a final group project, developing a website on a subject of your choice. And they'll be an extensive range of optional modules to choose from, led by staff who are specialists in their field.

The Journalism team have all worked in the industry. They've been involved in television, newspapers, radio, social media and PR. Among our teachers we have specialists in sports, political, environment and television journalism.

Our English teaching staff are leading researchers in a large number of different fields, from Caribbean literature to writing on medicine, and from the Renaissance period to the present day. Particularly strong areas of expertise include early modern literature, the Victorian period, the twentieth century, and creative writing.

Leicester isn't just a top 25 UK university (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026), that's rated top 10 for student experience, twice (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026 and The Daily Mail University Guide 2026). It's cutting-edge research, world-class facilities, an incredible network of expert teaching staff, a warm campus community, and a place to call home.

What's more, all Clearing applicants are guaranteed a place in Leicester's accommodation! Expect modern furnishings, speedy Wi-Fi and cosy lounge areas - all at a range of costs and sizes. To secure a spot, make sure you've completed your application before 1st September.

With a student body made up of Midlanders, Brits, and people from across the world, you're bound to make friends for life at Leicester. Whatever you're passionate about, there are plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded people, with over 150 societies including, Debating, Art, Bollywood, Archery & Tennis. Leicester is is also a student-friendly city. You've got music venues, bars, pubs & clubs all on your doorstep.