How much independent study is there in an English literature degree?
An English literature degree generally includes substantial independent study alongside scheduled lectures, seminars and tutorials. This can involve reading primary texts and criticism, preparing for classes, researching topics, and planning or writing essays and other assessments. The amount varies by university, year, module and assessment pattern.
Key points
- Independent reading may include novels, poetry, drama, theory and academic criticism.
- You may need to organise your own study time around set reading and assignment deadlines.
- Later modules or a dissertation may involve more self-directed research.
- Course handbooks may state expected workload and scheduled contact hours.
Things to check
- Exact expectations differ between courses and may also vary by country and study mode.
- Check the official course information for module reading lists, assessment details and any dissertation requirements.