English Language and Literature

Entry Requirements

• A-levels: AAA
• Advanced Highers: AA/AAB
• IB: 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL
• Or any other equivalent qualifications accepted/recognised by the university.

English Language Qualifications

• IELTS: overall score of 7.0 (with at least 7.0 in each of the four components)
• TOEFL (paper-based): overall score of 600 with a Test of Written English score of 5.5
• TOEFL (internet-based): overall score of 110 with component scores of at least: Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, and Writing 24.
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): grade A
• Cambridge Certificate for Proficiency in English (CPE): grade B
• English Language GCSE, or O-level: grade B (for IGCSE, please see below)
• International Baccalaureate Standard Level (SL): score of 5 in English (as Language A or B)
• European Baccalaureate: score of 70% in English.

Exemptions from this requirement will be considered for applicants who have:

• studied the International Baccalaureate programme, if it is taught in English
• studied the Singapore Integrated Programme (SIPCAL) 
• been educated full-time in the medium of the English language throughout the two most recent years before the 15 October application deadline, and who remain in full-time education conducted in the English language until the end of the school year in their home country. 

Curriculum

1st year

Courses

Four papers are taken:

• Introduction to English Language and Literature
• Early medieval literature 650–1350
• Literature in English 1830–1910
• Literature in English 1910–present day

Assessment

Three written papers form the First University Examination, together with a submitted portfolio of two essays for ‘Introduction to English Language and Literature’. All exams must be passed, but marks do not count towards the final degree.

2nd year

Courses

• Course I:
  • Literature in English 1350–1550
  • Literature in English 1550–1660
  • Literature in English 1660–1760
  • Literature in English 1760–1830
• Course II:
  • Literature in English 650–1100
  • Medieval English and related literatures  1066–1550
  • Literature in English 1350–1550
  • The history of the English language to c.1800

Assessment

All period papers will be examined by final written examinations at the end of the third year. 

3rd year

Courses

• Course I:
  • Shakespeare (may also be studied in the 2nd year)
• Course II:
  • The Material Text or Shakespeare (choice of option)
• Both courses:
  • Special option paper
  • Dissertation

Assessment

One extended essay for Special Options, due in at the end of the first term; dissertation and portfolio for Shakespeare/The Material Text, due in during the second term