As a result of the new Modular Degree Framework, Joint Honours Plans in English Literature and Creative Writing will not be available for students to choose after May 2025. Students currently enrolled in a Joint Honours Plan will continue their degree progression as planned unless they choose to change it. The most up-to-date information on requirements for English Literature and Creative Writing plans can be found on either the Plan Selection webpage (for first-year students choosing their Plans in May 2025), or on the Change of Plan webpage (for students already enrolled in a Plan and who wish to make changes).
Many students of literature are interested in other subjects too, and your ability to analyse literature benefits from knowledge you can bring from other disciplines. The Joint Honours Plan is for students who want to concentrate equally on two subjects, whether to explore connections between them or to develop a broader array of skills.
The English Joint Honours Plan offers all of the same opportunities as the Major—the chance to explore some of the classics of prose, poetry, and drama, alongside popular forms such as children’s literature and fantasy, as well as newer cultural forms like graphic novels—but with fewer courses overall and lighter historical distribution requirements. It still offers ample scope for broadening your knowledge of literary art from different nations and periods, and for encountering diverse voices within contemporary culture.
The Joint Honours Plan features at least one small-class experience at every level of the program, and many courses invite students to do Creative Writing as well as analytical and research-based work.
Career Prospects with a Joint Honours in English
English Joint Honours students graduate with skills that are highly valued in an array of careers: clear and effective communication, critical thinking, precise textual analysis, and independent research. Many English Joint Honours students pursue careers in education, freelance writing, publishing, consulting, civil and diplomatic service, and an array of fields that involve writing and communication. The Medial is also a good fit for education students, who must develop two teachable subjects.
Testimonials from a Current English Joint Honours Student
Grace Duncanson
Year of Study: Fourth Year
Degree: English/Classics Joint Honours
“Class discussions are uniquely fun and engaging, and the assignments offer so much room for creativity!”
