English Studies

English Studies is a discipline that encompasses the reading, interpretation and critical analysis of literary texts, the study of language and its structures, and the broader exploration of how written and spoken expression shapes human thought and culture. It develops skills that are deeply transferable: the ability to read with precision and insight, to construct clear and well-argued written responses, to evaluate evidence and to communicate complex ideas to different audiences. These capacities are valued by employers across an enormous range of sectors and are equally important in everyday civic and professional life.

At Teesside University, this four-year full-time programme includes a foundation year that helps you build the academic skills, confidence and subject knowledge needed for degree-level study. The foundation year introduces you to the standards, methods and practices of university-level work, giving you a supported transition before you progress to the main degree content. Through your studies you will encounter literature from different periods and traditions, develop your understanding of how language functions in different contexts, and engage with contemporary debates in literary and cultural criticism.

You will build practical skills in research, academic writing and critical thinking that will serve you well throughout your career.

English Studies graduates go on to careers across an extraordinary breadth of sectors. Teaching is a traditional and important destination, with many graduates going on to complete a PGCE and enter secondary education. Journalism, publishing, communications, marketing, public relations, broadcasting and the creative industries are all common paths.

The civil service, law, arts administration and the charitable sector regularly recruit English graduates who bring the analytical and communication skills the degree develops. Postgraduate study in English, creative writing, education or linguistics is also a natural continuation.