BA Hons English Literature with Media Cultures

The BA (Hons) English Literature with Media Cultures, offered by the University of Hertfordshire, blends critical appreciation of literary texts with engaging exploration of contemporary media. Over three years, students develop strong analytical skills, creative insight, and cultural awareness—preparing them for exciting roles in publishing, journalism, marketing, media, education, and beyond.

Year 1
In your first year, you'll build a solid foundation in literary and media studies. Expect core modules such as:

• Introduction to English Literature—examining influential works from medieval to modern-day.

• Media Cultures I—analyzing popular and traditional media forms.

• Academic Research and Writing—finding your voice and sharpening your critical thinking.

You’ll gain essential skills in textual reading, research techniques, and writing—all vital ingredients for success in later years.

Year 2
The second year brings specialization and flexibility:

• Delve deeper into literature modules: Shakespeare & His Contemporaries, 19th-Century Novel, or World Literatures.

• Expand your grasp of media through modules like Digital Cultures or Media Audiences & Identity.

• Take optional modules tapping into your interests (e.g., Creative Writing, Film Studies, or Gender & Media).

• Your research and writing skills become more refined, and there's usually a group project, perhaps creating a zine or media analysis.

This year is about broadening your horizons while developing confidence and independence in your academic journey.

Year 3
Your final year is all about consolidation and creativity:

• Choose from advanced modules in literature (e.g., Literary Theory, Postcolonial Writing) and media (e.g., Media and Politics, Transmedia Storytelling).

• Undertake a major Dissertation or Media Project, letting you research a topic you’re passionate about—whether that’s an in-depth critical essay or a digital media artefact (podcast, short film, blog, etc.).

• Your final year work is rigorous and rewarding, demonstrating your ability to analyse, create, and contribute meaningfully to your field.

Curriculum Structure
This course perfectly balances Literature and Media Studies, with:

• Core literary modules: from Shakespeare and Romanticism to contemporary global fiction.

• Media modules: spanning journalism, film, digital and social media, fandom, and creative industries.

• A dissertation or capstone project showcasing advanced research and self-directed learning.

• Opportunities for collaborative and creative coursework—often culminating in real-world deliverables like multimedia essays, mini-documentaries, or zines.