Swansea University

What you'll study

The programme integrates literary study, historical context and creative-writing practice across three years. In Year 1 you build core skills: close reading, introduction to literary periods and genres, historical methods, and creative-writing workshops that cover poetry and short fiction. Years 2 and 3 allow you to choose from a range of options such as Shakespeare and early modern literature, Victorian and nineteenth‑century studies, modernism and twentieth‑century literature, contemporary and postcolonial writing, historiography, social and cultural history, and thematic modules (for example: gender, war, and empire).

Practical creative-writing modules develop technique in prose, poetry and scriptwriting, and you will have opportunities for peer review and publication in student outlets. Advanced final-year choices typically include a dissertation or extended critical project in literature or history, and a creative portfolio option (a substantial body of original writing accompanied by a reflective commentary). Teaching is delivered through lectures, small-group seminars, creative workshops and one‑to‑one supervision.

• Core skills in literary analysis and historical interpretation
• Study of key periods: medieval to contemporary literature
• Creative-writing workshops in poetry, fiction and script
• Option modules in cultural history, public history and archival research
• Final-year dissertation or creative portfolio with critical reflection
• Opportunities for placements, internships and work-related learning

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements for the BA are aligned with standard UK university offers for humanities joint honours degrees. Applicants are usually expected to hold appropriate A‑level (or equivalent) qualifications; offers often reflect performance across relevant subjects rather than any single prescribed combination. Successful applicants demonstrate strong written communication, an interest in literature and history, and evidence of analytical or creative work.

International qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate, vocational qualifications and recognised international school credentials are accepted where they match equivalent academic standards. Mature applicants and those with non‑traditional backgrounds are encouraged to apply and may be considered on the basis of experience and supporting materials. Proficiency in English is required for applicants whose first language is not English; recognised English language qualifications are normally requested.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with transferable skills valued across many sectors: critical thinking, research and information synthesis, clear written communication, creativity and project management. Common career pathways include teaching (often pursued after a postgraduate teacher training qualification), publishing and editorial roles, journalism, copywriting and content creation, marketing and public relations, arts administration and cultural heritage work, and roles in local and national government or NGOs.

Other routes include postgraduate study (MA, MPhil, PhD) in literature, history or creative writing, and professional training in areas such as library and information services, archive work, or law. The programme’s emphasis on practical writing and placement opportunities also supports careers in screenwriting, freelance writing and creative industries.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea offers a research-informed teaching environment with strengths in both literary studies and historical research. The university’s schools provide small-group teaching through seminars and creative-writing workshops that support personalised feedback and development. Students benefit from access to extensive library collections and digital resources, and can take advantage of placement and internship links with cultural organisations across the region.

The campus and surrounding area provide a distinctive setting for study, with opportunities for field visits, archival work and community projects. Student societies, writing groups and regular readings and events mean you can develop networks, share work and gain experience presenting to public audiences. The programme’s flexible structure allows you to tailor your degree to academic or vocational goals while gaining a broad humanities education.