English degrees
Learn to analyse the literatures of different cultures and periods and to interpret this material within wider contexts of cultural and intellectual history. Explore the writings of canonical figures such as Austen, Dickens, Joyce, Shakespeare, Woolf and Wordsworth, and specialise as you progress, by period, genre or theme.
Study English at the University of Exeter
One of the leading English departments in the UK, with excellence in both teaching and research, we cover literature from the Medieval period to the present day, with additional strengths in film studies and creative writing. As a student you will be taught by world-class academics whose expertise spans the whole of the discipline of English.
We offer a curriculum that provides considerable flexibility and choice to encourage you to discover your literary interests. Our committed and passionate staff will help you to develop your ability to read perceptively and critically and to foster your capacity for creative and original thought.
You will find enthusiastic, research-active staff who are leaders in their field and are committed to sharing their expertise with you through their teaching.
Our English and Creative Writing degrees and courses
Our courses are taught on our Streatham Campus in Exeter.
Undergraduate degrees
Masters degrees
Related subjects
You can search a full list of subject areas taught at the University of Exeter.
Top 10 in the UK for English
7th in the Complete University Guide 2026
Top 50 in the world for English Language and Literature
QS World University Subject Rankings 2025
Unique on-site resources: Exeter’s Special Collections archive and The Bill Douglas Cinema Museum
88% of our English research is internationally excellent
Based on English Language and Literature research rated 4* + 3* in REF 2021
Frequently asked questions about studying English
We've answered some of our most frequently asked questions below to help you decide if a degree in English is right for you.
What career prospects would I have with an English degree from Exeter?
An English degree will help you to develop strong analytical, research and communication skills. Through the study of diverse texts across different periods and genres, you'll develop the ability to think critically, write persuasively and engage with complex ideas—skills that are highly valued across many sectors and roles.
Find out more about your future career with a degree in English and Creative Writing.
Can international students apply to study English at Exeter?
Yes. Our international student community is part of what makes Exeter a top worldwide university. International students are welcome to apply for Bachelors (undergraduate) and Masters (postgraduate taught) degrees with us, as well as for postgraduate research opportunities.
For more information, visit our international students webpages.
Whilst my studies here at the University of Exeter have been incredible (I cannot speak highly enough of my English course), my time at Exeter has been defined by what I do away from the books.
I have taken managerial roles within societies, broadening my circle of peers and allowing me to develop my leadership skills. Not only have I been involved in voluntary positions, the University’s broad internship programme has allowed me to take paid work in the Digital Humanities Labs, assisting academics on world leading research and pioneering and fostering new relationships between the University and the rest of the world.
This internship has let me interact with texts like the first edition of William Golding’s ‘Lord of the Flies’ (with the rarely seen first chapter) and even taken me to Canada, all of which is incredible experience, and will stand me in good stead for further study. I chose the study abroad option at Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia, as I believe that having international experience is key to success as work between countries continues to become more globally significant and the world is becoming smaller through communication and travel,’
Connor
BA English with Study Abroad (Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia)
"Having studied BA English Literature at Exeter, I knew I had to stay for my MA. The lecturers are always passionate about what they are teaching, but most importantly to me, they are always genuinely keen to discuss my own work. I did my BA dissertation on post-feminism within Taylor Swift and Beyoncé’s music videos."
"This year I’ve taken my work on music video even further and have also written on films ranging from Hitchcock to La La Land thanks to the flexible Film Pathway. In allowing me to pursue my interests, Exeter has helped me reach my full potential. I want to work in the music industry, and so it is really useful that my course has not only given me skills to take into working life, but has also provided me with the opportunity to craft essays which I can talk about in job interviews."
Ellie
Studying English Literary Studies (Film Studies Pathway)