English Literature and History of Art (joint honours)

In your first year, you will build the core skills and understanding you need for undergraduate literary studies, for example how to investigate sources and effectively present your arguments. You’ll develop the competencies and concepts needed for History of Art while studying an exciting range of material, from Renaissance paintings and buildings to modern British art and museums.

In your second year, you will broaden and deepen your knowledge of literature in relation to movements and cultures past and present. You'll be able to focus more deeply on specific art historical periods, and have the option of going on a residential field trip (usually to Paris).

In your final year, you will have the freedom to focus on topics that interest you the most, and explore them in your dissertation. You can explore literary topics like urbanisation, utopian societies, artificial intelligence, sustainability or even witchcraft. You can choose to study from a wide range of art historical topics. You'll also be able to explore the profession of curating and put on your own exhibition.

You’ll learn in a supportive and stimulating environment. You’ll be part of a close-knit programme where you’ll know everyone and get lots of support from both teaching staff and fellow students

Participation and discussion are important features of the course, with most modules combining lectures and seminar-style discussion based on weekly readings. You'll have the chance to discuss and challenge a wide variety of critical views and perspectives in your seminars, which will help to promote individual creativity and effective collaborative learning.

Your assessments will be diverse, and will support different learning styles - you’ll have a real opportunity to showcase your strengths. 

You might write a blog, create a video diary or give a presentation. You’ll be able to write essays, literature reviews or position papers. You will also have opportunities to produce short presentations and work in groups.

The assessments are designed to help you develop your confidence in using a wide range of skills, preparing you well for your future career.
 

You will be given the option to go on a residential field trip (usually to Paris) as part of the second-year module Field Work in Art History. The cost of the trip is included within your tuition fees.