Our School > School of Humanities > Why study English literature Why study English literature The University of London B.A in English offers a unique area of investigation that intersects a range of disciplines in the arts, humanities and social sciences. Engaging in this field of study will allow an individual to explore new ways of thinking and writing that in turn will sharpen personal communication skills. Our programme focuses primarily on literary study (as opposed to linguistic), and exposes students to an exciting range of texts from across the spectrum of English language writing, including fiction, poetry and drama. You will have the opportunity to study an array of texts that range from the historical to the contemporary. Studying English literature creates a rare opportunity to gain an in-depth perspective on Western culture that most other degree programs cannot offer. By learning to think critically about literary works you will train your mind to think critically about larger questions of meaning, as well as social and aesthetic values. The disciplined skills acquired in the completion of this degree are sought after by executives in journalism, media, advertising, public relations, and education in the public or private sectors. The study of English will teach you to creatively solve problems, hone your persuasive communication skills, perform analytical research and write in a precise, critical manner. You will study a range of literary and other works written in different styles and periods; from this study you will develop an awareness of changing rhetorical techniques and effects, as well as greater knowledge of many literary works. The study of English is concerned with questions of meaning, social behavior and structure, as well as with problems of aesthetic and cultural value. Your work directs you not only towards a wide range of examples of writing but also towards greater awareness of moral and social questions, surrounding the techniques through which analysis and persuasion are achieved. You will develop a broad range of skills, including general communicative competence as well as more technical skills of literary-critical analysis.