English Literature or philosophy: which should I study?
English Literature may suit you better if you want to interpret poems, novels, drama and cultural contexts, while philosophy may suit you better if you enjoy analysing concepts, constructing arguments and examining questions about knowledge, ethics or reality. Compare course modules, assessment methods and your longer-term interests before deciding.
Key points
- English Literature can involve close reading, critical writing and historical or cultural study.
- Philosophy can involve logical analysis, discussion of arguments and essay-based evaluation of competing views.
- Both subjects develop transferable skills such as reading, writing, research and critical thinking.
- Consider which subjects and assessment styles you find engaging, and check the details of specific courses.
Things to check
- The balance of topics, teaching methods and assessments varies by university and programme, so consult official course information.