English Literature and Film Studies

English literature and film studies are two disciplines that share deep concerns: how stories are told, what they mean, how they reflect and shape the societies that produce them, and how form, structure and style carry meaning beyond the surface of the narrative. Literature works through language and the reader's imagination; film works through image, sound, editing and performance. Studying them together develops a more complete understanding of how stories are constructed and what they do, across two of the most influential art forms of the last five centuries.

At York St John University, this three-year full-time programme includes a foundation year, a sandwich year, a year abroad and a work placement, giving you an unusually rich combination of academic and professional experiences. You will study literature and film across different styles, genres, traditions and voices, gaining perspectives on these art forms and the world they depict. Literature modules will take you through a range of historical periods and national traditions, developing close reading skills and familiarity with critical and theoretical approaches.

Film studies modules examine how cinema constructs meaning through its formal and technical elements, its genres and its cultural contexts. The year abroad and the sandwich year provide international exposure and professional experience that complement the academic work.

Graduates of English Literature and Film Studies programmes go on to careers in journalism, publishing, broadcasting, film and television production, education, communications, public relations, arts administration and creative writing. The close reading, critical analysis and writing skills developed transfer well across a broad range of professional contexts. Further study at postgraduate level in English literature, film studies, creative writing, cultural theory or media is available for those who want to pursue academic or specialist professional paths.