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Join the Department of English Literature where we work hard to foster a friendly, cohesive and committed community of writers. You will learn from your lecturers as well as each other through sharing work in progress.

As you develop your own interests, you will grow your skills and experience as a writer.

Published authors regularly visit the Department to share their work and students are encouraged to become published authors themselves.

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The English Literature department really does have a community feel, and it is so easy to get to know people through classes and extra curricular groups and activities. All the staff are so invested in your learning, and will be there to encourage and aid you throughout your time at the university with an entirely genuine interest and enthusiasm.
Billie Thomas, BA (Hons) English Literature

Special collections and resources

During your studies, you'll have access to a variety of unique and original collections and resources to support and inspire you.

The University has three on-site museums, as well as the Special Collections – a substantial collection of rare books, archives, and manuscripts.

You will also have access to other resources, including the academic library which has recently undergone a multi-million-pound upgrade.

Our extensive digital resources mean that you can carry out research in your halls of residence, in the Department of English Literature dedicated study space - or even in one of the many coffee shops on campus!

How we support you

You will receive one-to-one support from your academic tutor throughout your degree. Your tutor can offer advice on how to get the most out of your reading and how to prepare effectively for seminars and lectures.

The University has a range of services available to you to support your personal and professional development during your studies.

Learn more about the University's support services

Life in the Department

If you'd like to find out more about what goes on in the Department of English Literature, take a look at our blog.

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Life on campus

Our main campus is set on 130 hectares of beautiful parkland, so you'll find plenty of places to relax. Our campus is home to a thriving community and features the Students' Union, Library and places to eat.
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Our stories

Read stories from our staff, students, and alumni to find out what it's like to study English Literature at the University of Reading.
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Life in Reading

Step off campus and you'll find yourself in a bustling town centre offering a variety of shops, restaurants and activities. We're also well-connected – you can reach London Paddington within half an hour by train.