Keele University

What you'll study

This joint honours programme balances modules in English literature and history so you build subject-specific knowledge alongside shared research and transferable skills. In Year 1 you take core introductory modules that establish methods and foundations in both disciplines — for example, literary form and context, and historical methods and themes. From Year 2 you choose from a wide range of optional modules across periods and approaches.

• English modules (examples): Shakespeare and drama; the novel and narrative forms; Romantic and Victorian literature; modernism and contemporary writing; literary theory and critical methods; poetry, genre studies and cultural contexts.
• History modules (examples): medieval and early modern Britain; modern British history; empire and global histories; social and cultural history; public history and heritage; historiography and research methods.
• Research and skills: training in archival work, source analysis, research methods, critical theory, and digital humanities approaches. Language-based options and interdisciplinary modules are often available.
• Independent study: a major independent dissertation or long project in your final year allows you to pursue a sustained question drawing on both literary and historical methods where appropriate.
• Structure and options: the programme is typically taken over three years full-time, with the option at Keele to add a placement year or a year abroad as a fourth year. Assessment blends essays, seminar presentations, unseen and take-home exams, portfolios and long-form dissertation work.

Entry requirements

Keele welcomes applicants with a broad range of qualifications. Typical offers are based on successful completion of secondary school qualifications such as A-levels, the International Baccalaureate, Access to HE diplomas, or vocational qualifications including BTECs, combined with relevant grades. There are no compulsory A-level subjects for entry to the joint English and History degree, but demonstrated competence in English language and literature and evidence of historical study, critical reading or essay-writing ability in your personal statement are useful. GCSE English Language (or equivalent) is normally expected.

Mature applicants with work experience, or applicants using non-traditional qualifications, are considered on an individual basis. International applicants must meet Keele's English language requirements through recognised qualifications or tests; details are provided on the university's admissions pages. Admissions decisions also take into account references and the personal statement; interviews are not routinely required but may be used in some circumstances.

Career prospects

Graduates of English and History leave with strong analytical, research and communication skills that are attractive to employers across sectors. Common career paths include:

• Teaching and education (often following a postgraduate teaching qualification such as a PGCE)
• Publishing, journalism, copywriting and content roles
• Museum, archive and heritage work, including curation and public history roles
• Libraries, information management and records work
• Policy, advocacy and roles in the civil service or local government
• Marketing, PR and communications
• Further academic study and research at postgraduate level (MA, MRes, PhD)

Employers value the degree for its emphasis on research, argumentation and clear written communication. Keele’s careers service supports work placements, internships and graduate job preparation throughout the degree.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers small-group teaching and a campus-centred student experience that encourages interdisciplinary study and close contact with academic staff. The university’s dual-honours model gives equal weight to both subjects, so you retain flexibility to tailor your pathway in English and history across periods and approaches.

Students benefit from access to Keele’s library and special collections, opportunities to work with local archives and heritage organisations, and modules that emphasise employability and real-world research skills. Optional placement and study-abroad routes allow you to gain practical experience or international exposure as part of your degree. Support services, academic advisers and a range of student-led activities contribute to a supportive environment for study and personal development.