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2nd Guardian University Guide 2026
26th QS World University Rankings by Subject for English Language and Literature 2026
5th for Graduate Prospects of all English departments in the Times Good University Guide 2026
£29525 Median salary of Durham English first-degree graduates in full time employment after 15 months

Undergraduate Study

Our staff interests cover the full spectrum of English literature from Anglo-Saxon to the present day, and different critical approaches to literature as well as creative writing. We consider literatures in English in the global sense, with modules that cover authors and texts ranging from the United States to South Asia.  Our work combines a strong sense of tradition with a commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary approaches.  

Our teaching and research complement one another at all levels of academic enquiry, from first-year tutorials to the specialised supervision available to MA and doctoral postgraduates. For example, staff offer ‘special topic’ seminar modules related to their field of expertise, while our creative writers lead modules in creative writing, poetry and prose. 

Students are taught in lectures and seminars, as well as small tutorial groups and one-to-one supervisions. Undergraduates can see their tutors regularly, and prepare essays or shorter pieces for tutorial or seminar discussion.  

The University Library maintains extensive general collections in literary studies, with specialist collections and archives on Palace Green.  

 

  • Courses

    From Anglo-Saxon epics to Renaissance drama to contemporary novels from the Anglophone world – English is a rich and varied degree.
    Student in library looking at book
  • Life as an English Student

    A degree in English Studies will equip you with fantastic transferrable skills, and can be a route to a wide range of future-proof careers.
    Four students sat around a coffee table

Courses

From Anglo-Saxon epics to Renaissance drama to contemporary novels from the Anglophone world – English is a rich and varied degree.
Student in library looking at book

Life as an English Student

A degree in English Studies will equip you with fantastic transferrable skills, and can be a route to a wide range of future-proof careers.
Four students sat around a coffee table
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Look Closer at Our Department of English Studies

Discover the big picture and the little details of our Department of English Studies.

Find out more about our undergraduate courses

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University student
The tutorials and seminars were always engaging and thought-provoking. I often walked out of lessons feeling refreshed and inspired by new ways of thinking about literature. The chance to study under experts in each module and debate your ideas with your peers is a privilege.

Luke Power
BA English Studies
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Scholarship and Widening Participation Opportunities

We welcome students from all backgrounds, and support a number of programmes to encourage applications from those who are underrepresented. We also have financial support, such as the Jeremy Vine scholarship for students of Black heritage.

Our scholarships and participation programmes

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Durham Tours

Fancy taking a virtual tour around Durham? Our brand new 'Durham University Tours' app is available now in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store!

Learn more about our virtual tours

Social Media

Discover more about our research and activities by joining our lively online community of academics, students, and public