Best Universities for English Literature: Courses, Fees & Career Scope

In an era where the power of storytelling and critical thinking is more important than ever, a degree in English literature equips you with not just literary insight but also adaptability in diverse career landscapes. Whether you're analysing Shakespeare or examining modern narratives, choosing the right university lays the foundation for your success.

This blog highlights the best universities for English literature worldwide, explores journalism-related courses, compares costs, and outlines career paths, enabling you to confidently chart your future.

Why Study English Literature?

• Analytical Mastery: Enhances critical reading, writing, and interpretation skills, which are essential in multiple fields.
• Versatile Career Options: From teaching and publishing to media and communications, the flexibility of an English degree remains unmatched.
• Cultural Literacy: Offers deep cultural, historical, and social context through literature, a valuable lens in an interconnected world.
• Global Relevance: English is a global medium for discourse, media, and literature, making this degree internationally applicable.
• Creative Foundation: Many programs integrate creative writing and media modules to nurture storytelling and expression.

Comparison Table: Top Universities for English Literature

Detailed Profiles:  Best Universities for English Literature

University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge has long been a global leader in literary studies, famous for developing the method of "practical criticism" and producing some of the world's finest writers and scholars. Its English faculty offers a broad spectrum of courses, from medieval literature to postcolonial and modern studies.
Key Pointers:

• Considered one of the best universities for English literature, with consistent QS top rankings.
• Offers BA, MPhil, and PhD programs with strong research opportunities.
• Students benefit from access to historic libraries and archives, such as the Wren Library at Trinity College.
• Alumni include literary greats such as Sylvia Plath, Zadie Smith, and Sir Christopher Ricks.

University of Oxford

Oxford's English Faculty is the largest in the UK and one of the most prestigious worldwide. Its tutorial-based teaching provides students with personalised guidance, making it a top destination for serious literature scholars.
Key Pointers:

• Recognised among the best universities for English literature with centuries of tradition.
• Specialisations range from Old English and Shakespeare to modern global literature.
• The Bodleian Library is a treasure trove for literary research.
• Famous alumni include Oscar Wilde, J. R. R. Tolkien, and Vikram Seth.

Harvard University

Harvard University blends the study of traditional English literature with interdisciplinary approaches, including comparative literature and digital humanities. Its extensive resources make it one of the strongest hubs for literary research in the U.S.
Key Pointers:

• Ranked among the best universities for English literature in the world, with a global reputation for excellence.
• Access to the Widener Library and Houghton Library archives.
• Offers both undergraduate and PhD pathways with a wide range of electives.
• Alumni include T. S. Eliot, Wallace Stevens, and Jhumpa Lahiri.

University of California, Berkeley (UCB)

UC Berkeley has a reputation for blending traditional literary analysis with modern perspectives, particularly in the fields of cultural and ethnic studies. Its English Department is also known for fostering critical theory.
Key Pointers:

• Counted among the top universities for English literature in the world.
• Special emphasis on American literature, postcolonial studies, and ethnic literature.
• Research-driven approach with opportunities for interdisciplinary study.
• Alumni include Joan Didion and Maxine Hong Kingston.

Yale University

Yale's English Department is one of the oldest in the U.S., offering a rich curriculum in literature, creative writing, and literary theory. Its strong faculty and unique resources make it especially appealing for graduate study.
Key Pointers:

• Considered one of the best universities for a PhD in English literature, with global recognition for research.
• Home to the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library.
• Offers interdisciplinary opportunities in drama, film, and cultural studies.
• Alumni include Harold Bloom, Tom Wolfe, and Cole Porter.

Stanford University

Stanford University provides an innovative English program that combines traditional literary studies with contemporary fields like gender studies, digital humanities, and cultural analysis.
Key Pointers:

• Regarded as one of the best colleges for English literature in the U.S. for its diverse approach.
• Strong focus on critical theory and cultural studies.
• Located in Silicon Valley, offering opportunities in digital media and publishing.
• Alumni include John Steinbeck and Ken Kesey.

The University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh is known for having one of the oldest departments dedicated solely to English Literature, dating back to 1762. It has a strong global reputation and continues to be a leader in research and teaching.
Key Pointers:

• Ranked among the best universities for master's in English literature, with MA and MSc pathways.
• Close ties to Scotland's literary heritage and the world-famous Edinburgh International Book Festival.
• Offers wide specialisations, from medieval literature to contemporary writing.
• Alumni include Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, and J. K. Rowling (who studied nearby at Edinburgh).

University of California

UCLA's English Department offers both a strong traditional curriculum and forward-looking courses that integrate film, media, and cultural studies. Its location gives students unique exposure to creative industries.
Key Pointers:

• Frequently ranked among the best universities for English literature in the UK, when comparing global benchmarks.
• Popular for its integration of literature with film and media studies.
• Strong emphasis on diversity, postcolonial studies, and American literature.
• Alumni include James Franco and Alexander Payne.

Columbia University

Columbia has a long history of excellence in English and Comparative Literature, combining classic literary traditions with modern critical approaches. Its New York location is a major advantage for publishing and cultural opportunities.
Key Pointers:

• Considered one of the best universities for a PhD in English literature in the world.
• Offers strong comparative literature programs and cross-disciplinary opportunities.
• Access to New York's publishing industry, libraries, and cultural events.
• Alumni include Jack Kerouac, Langston Hughes, and Jhumpa Lahiri (also Harvard).

Princeton University

Princeton's English Department is known for its academic rigour, offering students strong foundations in literary history, theory, and interdisciplinary studies. Its small class sizes make it a great choice for personalised mentorship.
Key Pointers:

• Ranked among the best universities in the UK for English literature alternatives when compared to Ivy League standards globally.
• Strong graduate programs with research opportunities in literature and cultural studies.
• Focus on mentorship and close faculty-student relationships.
• Alumni include F. Scott Fitzgerald and Toni Morrison (faculty).

Fee Structure

Journalism & Related Courses

For students of English Literature, journalism is a natural extension of their skills in analysis, storytelling, and communication. Many graduates choose to pursue additional training or short-term programs in journalism and media, which open up exciting career options.

Undergraduate Courses in Journalism

• Bachelor's in Journalism & Mass Communication (BJMC) – A 3-year program introducing students to media studies, news writing, digital journalism, and broadcasting.
• BA Journalism / BA Mass Media – Focuses on media history, reporting, editing, and communication theory, often combined with electives in literature, political science, or sociology.

Eligibility: Completion of high school (10+2) with strong English skills.
Outcome: Builds foundational knowledge for careers in reporting, editing, or content creation.

Postgraduate Courses in Journalism

• MA / MSc in Journalism – Covers advanced reporting, investigative journalism, media research, and ethics.
• Master's in Mass Communication / Media Studies – Focuses on communication strategy, global media, and public relations.
• Specialised Master's – Options in Digital Journalism, Broadcast Journalism, or Data Journalism.

Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in journalism, mass communication, English, or related fields.
Outcome: Prepares students for editorial roles, investigative reporting, or leadership in media organisations.

Diplomas & Certificate Programs

Short-term (6–12 months) programs designed for skill-building:

• Diploma in Digital Journalism – Covers online reporting, SEO writing, and multimedia tools.
• Certificate in Photojournalism / Video Journalism – Practical training in visual storytelling.
• Content Strategy & Media Writing – Focuses on corporate communication, blogging, and content marketing.

Eligibility: Open to graduates and working professionals from any stream.
Outcome: Ideal for those wanting to quickly upskill or shift careers.

PhD in Journalism & Mass Communication

For students interested in academia or advanced media research, a PhD offers opportunities to explore journalism at a deeper level.

Key Research Areas:

• Media ethics and press freedom
• Political communication and democracy
• Digital journalism and audience engagement
• Media history and cultural studies
• Journalism education and pedagogy

Eligibility: Master's degree in Journalism, Mass Communication, English, or related fields, along with a research proposal.
Outcome: Careers as professors, researchers, policy advisors, and thought leaders in global media.

Skills You Gain from Journalism Courses:

• Strong writing, editing, and communication skills
• Research and fact-checking techniques
• Multimedia storytelling (print, digital, audio-visual)
• Understanding of media law and ethics
• Critical thinking and audience engagement strategies

Program Scholarships

Here's a curated list of scholarship and funding opportunities for English Literature programs from around the world.

• Rhodes Scholarship (University of Oxford): A highly prestigious international postgraduate award allowing recipients to study at Oxford in any subject, including English Literature.
• Clarendon Fund (University of Oxford): Offers over 200 graduate scholarships annually for any discipline, including taught master's and research degrees, with full coverage of tuition and living expenses.
• Chevening Scholarship (UK Government): A competitive scholarship for international students to pursue postgraduate studies (including English Literature-related courses) in the UK. Includes tuition, stipend, and travel costs.
• Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP): An international program offering scholarships across Commonwealth countries. Eligibility depends on national bilateral arrangements.
• Fulbright Program (USA): Offers grants to international students for graduate studies or research in the U.S. across almost all disciplines, including the humanities and literature.
• Erasmus Mundus Joint Programmes (EU): Offers integrated master's and doctoral degrees through consortia of universities across Europe, with full scholarships covering tuition, subsistence, travel, and insurance.

Career Opportunities After Studying English Literature

A degree in English Literature opens doors to both creative and professional careers. Here are some popular paths:

• Writer / Author: Create novels, short stories, poetry, or non-fiction works. Many literature graduates become published authors or freelance writers.
• Editor / Publisher: Work in publishing houses, magazines, or digital platforms to review manuscripts, manage publications, and guide authors.
• Journalist / Media Professional: Apply analytical and storytelling skills to news, broadcasting, or digital journalism.
• Teacher / Lecturer: Teach English in schools, colleges, or universities. With advanced degrees (MA/PhD), students can pursue academic careers in research and teaching.
• Content Writer / Copywriter: Create engaging content for websites, blogs, advertising, and corporate communication. A fast-growing career option in the digital era.
• Translator / Interpreter: Work in translation, interpretation, or localisation services if you have a strong command of multiple languages.
• Civil Services / Policy Roles: Literature graduates often excel in exams like IAS, UPSC, or other administrative services due to their analytical reading and essay-writing skills.
• Communications & PR Specialist: Manage public relations, branding, and corporate communication strategies for organisations.
• Archivist / Librarian: Preserve and manage cultural heritage, rare manuscripts, and archives in libraries, museums, or universities.
• Creative Industry Roles: Work in theatre, screenwriting, media production, and other creative fields where storytelling and interpretation are core skills.

How to Apply & Admission Requirements?

Undergraduate Programs (BA English Literature)

• Eligibility: High school (10+2) with strong English grades.
• Requirements: Application form, transcripts, personal statement, and recommendation letters.
• For International Students: Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE).

Postgraduate Programs (MA / MPhil English Literature)

• Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in English or related field.
• Requirements: Academic transcripts, SOP (statement of purpose), 2–3 recommendation letters, writing samples (often required).
• Tests: GRE may be needed in the U.S.; usually not in the UK/Europe.

PhD in English Literature

• Eligibility: Master's degree in English, Literature, or related field.
• Requirements: A strong research proposal, academic transcripts, writing samples/publications, and letters of reference.
• Interviews: Often part of the selection process.

General Application Steps

1. Shortlist universities based on ranking, courses, and costs.
2. Check official eligibility criteria and deadlines.
3. Prepare documents (SOP, LORs, transcripts, writing samples).
4. Take required tests (IELTS/TOEFL/GRE if applicable).
5. Apply online through university portals or systems like UCAS (UK).

How to Choose the Best English Literature University?

Selecting the right university is just as important as choosing the course itself. Keep these factors in mind:

• Reputation & Ranking – Look for universities highly ranked in English Language & Literature.
• Faculty & Research Strength – Check if the university has renowned professors, strong research output, and specialisations that match your interests.
• Course Structure – Some universities focus on traditional literature (Shakespeare, Classics), while others offer modern, interdisciplinary options like Cultural Studies, Creative Writing, or Digital Humanities.
• Location & Culture – Studying literature in a culturally rich environment (like Oxford, Cambridge, or New York) can enhance your academic experience.
• Career Support – Universities with strong alumni networks, internships, and publishing opportunities give you better exposure.
• Costs & Scholarships – Compare tuition fees, living expenses, and the availability of scholarships or fellowships.
• Flexibility & Opportunities – Look for universities that allow you to pair English with related fields such as Journalism, Media Studies, or Creative Writing for broader career options.

Final Takeaway

English literature is not only a journey through cultural narratives but also a launchpad for creative and career exploration, whether through literary scholarship, storytelling, journalism, or beyond.

The best universities for English literature provide world-class teaching, research, and exposure to help you shape a meaningful career. Whether you choose Cambridge's rigorous analytical tradition, Columbia's journalistic excellence, or UEA's creative vibrancy, the key is aligning your passion with a program that truly fuels your goals.