English - Arts (BA (Hons)) at University College Cork

Do you enjoy discussing books, films, song, theatre? By studying English you will develop your knowledge and writing skills, and get more from the books and films you love.

UCC School of English has a strong tradition of creativity and independent thinking. Our students learn, by reading and listening, how to balance different arguments. You will get practice at clear and persuasive writing and at effective discussion in seminar situations. You will join a community of learning where you can develop your ideas and knowledge and shape your skills.

The BA in English introduces you to the subject in its fullest sense. You will study English across the centuries and can cover areas such as creative writing, film, drama and theatre. If you're a keen reader and interested in technology, we can help you hone your digital and literary skills with courses on digital media and through technology-enabled learning.

Realise your full potential at university by studying a subject that brings pleasure and reward.

As an English student, you will study literature, language, culture and history, while developing your skills in writing and analysis. You will have the flexibility to learn about what you enjoy most, while also developing valuable skills for a rich variety of career choices.

English at UCC is unique in the depth, breadth and range of the courses on offer. You can study the subject from its earliest beginnings in Old English language and literature right up to cutting-edge developments in critical theory and digital humanities.

Film and drama are both available as part of the course, and you will also have the opportunity to encounter texts from other cultures.

Placement or Study Abroad Information

Study abroad: If you are studying through the BA International, you will spend Year 3 studying at one of our partner universities abroad. We currently have links with universities throughout Europe, USA, Canada, South America and Asia including:

• University of California
• University of Kansas
• University of Konstanz
• Université Marc Bloch, Strasbourg
• University of Massachusetts at Amherst
• University of Montana
• Universita Roma Tre
• University of Southern Denmark
• University of Salzburg

Work placement: If you study through the BA or the BA International, you will have the opportunity to avail of a work placement in Year 2. You can find out more here.

Skills and Careers Information

English is a flexible and attractive degree and provides a wide range of transferable skills. The courses you will study impart skills that can help you achieve success in such professions as journalism, teaching, publishing, theatre, public relations, public affairs, arts management, marketing, law and information sciences.

Such skills include:

• the ability to think independently, and to make an effective argument
• the capacity to gather, investigate and assess research materials
• an aptitude for organising material in a logical and coherent way
• the ability to derive conclusions based on research
• developing a clear and effective writing style: a key foundation for almost all careers.

A degree in English also supports and sustains a lifelong relationship with books and with literature, and equips you to become a critical thinker, an elegant writer and a creative person.