Regent’s admits 5 undergraduates a year for the single honours English course, which is one of the most wide-ranging in the country, giving you the chance to study writing in English from its origins in Anglo-Saxon England to the literature of the 20th and early 21st centuries. As well as British literature, you can study works written in English from other parts of the world. The course also allows you a considerable degree of choice about the topics you would like to concentrate on.

Studying literature at Oxford involves the development of sophisticated analytical reading skills and an ability to place literary texts in their wider intellectual and historical contexts. It also requires you to consider the critical processes by which you analyse and judge, to learn about literary form and technique, and to study the development of the English language.

It is also possible to study for the joint degree in History and English. See further History & English – Regent’s Park College (ox.ac.uk)

When applying are students asked to submit written work?

Yes, all candidates are required to submit one recent example of writing. Preferably it should be an analytical discussion of a topic or topics in the field of English literature though an English language topic is permissible.

Do I need to sit a test?

There is no English Literature test for students applying in 2024.

What can a first year student expect to study?

Introduction to Literary Studies; Literature of the 20th and 21st centuries; Victorian Literature; Introduction to Medieval Studies.

How are students in English mainly taught?

Tutorials, paired tutorials; whole year classes, where appropriate.

How close is Regent’s to the English Faculty and the faculty libraries and resources?

10 minute walk

What proportion of the teaching is done by Regent’s tutors and fellows?

The bulk of teaching is done by four tutors at Regent’s: Dr Mark Atherton, Dr Richard Lawes, Dr Tim Moore and Dr Lynn Robson. Between them they cover English literature from the 8th century to the present day.

What do the students say?

“Our tutors see their teaching as their first priority, rather than an inconvenience.”

“There is a strong sense at Regent’s that students can and should lead discussion in tutorials, and we are always able to follow our own interests. Furthermore, the tutors at Regent’s strike an excellent balance, challenging students to perform at their best.”

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    5 students admitted per year

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    Course information

    A BA in 3 years
    UCAS code: Q300
    Deferred entry available (usually one per year)
    Grade requirement: AAA. One should be English Literature or English Language & Literature.

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    Director of Studies

    Dr Mark Atherton

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    RPC Admissions Officer

    +44 (0) 1865 288153
    academic.administrator@regents.ox.ac.uk

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    Faculty website

    www.english.ox.ac.uk