Life as an English Undergraduate Student

Our course information tells you about the academic content of our degrees. But what is it really like to study English in Durham? On this page we give you a sense of what our students do, and experience a day or week in their life in their own words. We also highlight some of the extra-curricular opportunities on offer, which often combine with English as a gateway to future careers.

A typical week

There is actually no such thing as a 'typical' week for an English Student. English requires a considerable amount of directed independent learning, consisting of reading primary and secondary sources, writing formative and assessed essays, and preparing tutorial and seminar assignments. This independence encourages students to develop important skills in organisation and self-motivation, and offers the flexibility to take advantage of extra-curricular opportunities, such as performing arts, journalism, or creative writing.

Below is just one example of what a first year timetable might look like (provided by undergraduate, Lucy Hobson):

Outside of set commitments, English students obviously spend a lot of time in the University Library or some of the other study spaces around campus. Colleges too have their own libraries and resource centres, enabling you to work individually or with others within a community as you prefer.

In addition to student-led opportunities, the Department organises multiple academic events each year, from lectures with external scholars to social opportunities to mix with staff. We are also involved in wider activities, such as Durham Book Festival. 

Transitioning to English Studies at university

Learning and studying English at this level may be very different to what you're used to, but during your first year in particular we will support you and help you gain the confidence to succeed in your degree.

Your introduction to English will start online after you have achieved your place. You will be given access to various websites, including our virtual learning environment, with some initial reading and activities you can do over the summer to prepare for your studies.

Once you arrive, induction will be an ongoing process. You will be invited to various live sessions concerning module choice, library skills, research and working practices in the course of your first and second years, with the emphasis shifting to the dissertation in final year.  Our dedicated Academic Skills resources online will teach you the basics of things like essay writing, referencing, and using AI appropriately. You will also have regular meetings with your Academic Adviser during each year.