Why study English?

English is an enjoyable, flexible and adaptable subject and is a very popular choice of degree course both in the UK and world-wide. It is a subject which can be studied at a meaningful and rewarding level by people of all ages and from a wide range of backgrounds. Indeed, anyone who has an enthusiastic interest in culture and creativity will find plenty to enjoy on an English degree programme. English may be studied intensively as a single subject in its own right but it also combines well with a wide range of other disciplines. English is one of the principal Humanities subjects on the National Curriculum and a degree in English is an excellent starting point for entry into the teaching profession as well as providing the basis for a wide range of other career opportunities in management, consultancy and the public services.

What's special about the English programme at Bolton?

The English degree course at Bolton is a versatile programme of literary study, which will introduce you to a rich and varied range of writing in English, including some writing that has been translated into English from other languages. The course will help you to develop those fundamental critical skills which you will need to progress throughout your degree and also offers opportunities for students to expand their personal interests and forge an independent analytical voice. You will encounter texts from the Renaissance period to the present day and modules are designed to engage you in an exciting variety of cultural and historical debates. Many of the modules taught on the English pathway have been directly informed by staff research interests and areas of expertise – so you are sure to benefit from the personal enthusiasms and specialist knowledge of your tutors. We are also very keen to promote our drama and performance related modules which can be taken as part of your English degree and are delivered by specialists in the theatre studies field. Opportunities to attend module options from other degree programmes such as Creative Writing, Film and Media Studies and Media, Writing and Production are also available. Other bonuses include the annual programme of readings and lectures by contemporary poets and novelists organised by the University in conjunction with the North West Arts Board and the Poetry Society and international student exchanges. 

How is the course delivered?

We are committed to enabling student-centred learning and because of our good staff-student ratio we are able to deliver our course mainly through seminars and tutorials, accompanied by occasional lectures. The ethos of approachability and accessibility which we have built up over many years means that we always provide a friendly and informal learning atmosphere. As a student on the English programme, you will also have a personal tutor who will "move up" with you as you progress through the course and will be able to advise you on such things as module choice, study techniques and a range of other issues. Further support and guidance is always available from the Library and there are also professional counsellors available to discuss personal issues which may have a bearing on your studies.  

How will the course enhance your future prospects?

Studying English at the University of Bolton can help you to develop a portfolio of valuable graduate skills which are transferable to a range of potential career routes.  Single Honours English students with the intention of entering the teaching profession have the opportunity to build into their programme a strand of education-orientated modules which should provide a useful springboard into the PGDE (formerly PGCE) and subsequent employment.  Issues in Educational Theory and Practice is offered as an option at Level One and Level Two students may take English in the Classroom as a way of finding out more about working in a teaching context.  For those students who are keen to explore any other career route of their choice there is a Career Planning and Development module at Level 2 and a Level 3 Work-Based Learning module.