A Level English Literature

Course summary

English can be combined with a wide range of other subjects. Obviously it complements other Arts subjects, but every year a significant number of students add English to Science subjects, to give their A level course a greater balance. For those considering going further and studying English at University, it is important to know that most universities offer courses combining English Literature with other subjects, notably Languages, History, Psychology and Sociology, as well as more traditional English Literature degree courses. English Language, Linguistics, Creative Writing and other variations are also offered at degree level. An interesting recent statistic is that fewer than 50% of all English graduates enter those areas of employment traditionally considered appropriate: publishing, the media, journalism, entertainment, and teaching. Many also enter banking and commerce, industry, the civil service, local government and law. The study of English at A level also provides a mental discipline applicable to all aspects of learning; the ordering and organising of ideas to shape a coherent answer to a specific question by which the A level Boards set such store can have a beneficial spin-off on other subjects.