English Studies

English studies is the academic discipline concerned with the reading, analysis, and interpretation of written texts across the full range of literary and non-literary forms, from novels, poetry, and drama to essays, journalism, and other modes of writing. It develops close reading skills, the ability to situate texts within historical and cultural contexts, and the critical frameworks to analyse how and why texts mean what they mean. At a time when the ability to read carefully and write clearly is both rare and genuinely valued, an English studies degree provides a rigorous education in exactly those skills.

At Teesside University, you will study English over three years full-time, applying close reading techniques to a wide range of texts and developing your critical understanding of different approaches to reading and writing. The programme covers novels, poetry, and drama across different periods and traditions, and develops your engagement with critical theory and the methods scholars bring to literary and textual study. You will also develop your own writing skills, both creative and critical, building the range and confidence that a varied professional career demands.

The typical entry tariff is 104 UCAS points.

Graduates of English studies programmes work in education, journalism, publishing, communications, marketing, public relations, the civil service, and the arts. The ability to read critically, synthesise complex material, and communicate with precision and clarity are valued in virtually every professional context. Teaching English in secondary schools is a well-supported career path for graduates, and many go on to postgraduate qualifications in education.

Many others also continue to postgraduate study in English literature, creative writing, journalism, or related disciplines.