Common myths about studying English Literature at University

University courses English & Journalism
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Let’s break some myths about studying English Literature at University!

Myth: Only Shakespeare and other British authors are studied at University.
Reality: Studying literature at the university allows you to get acquainted with writers from all over the world, from Eric Remarque and Zadie Smith, to Kazuo Ishiguro and Kurt Vonnegut. Chances are, you will be exposed to many authors you haven’t heard about before, and will actually enjoy reading theit works!

Myth: While studying, students are expected to respect or admire certain authors.
Reality: Not at all! Hate Shakespeare after studying him for A-Levels? Doesn’t matter! Absolutely didn’t like the book that you had to read before the next lecture and abandoned it halfway through? No problem! The main thing is the ability to argue your choice / preferences. Students’ opinions are always welcome, because there are no right or wrong answers in the world of literature.

Myth: After receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature, you can only work as a teacher or a librarian.
Reality: Bachelor Degree in English Literature opens up many career opportunities, such as: Journalist, Editor, Publicist, Communications professional, Public Affairs professional, Social Media manager, Marketing agent, Copywriter and many more.

Myth: The study of literature teaches only to write various types of essays.
Reality: Studying English literature at university develops research skills, improves memory and attention to details, enhances the ability to critically analyse, form arguments, deliver presentations, maintain discussions, as well as work both individually and in a team environment. Such skills are the most desirable for employers both in the UK and around the world.

Are there any more myths that you think are worth busting? Make sure to share them in the comments!

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Great post, @Kat - I think it’s important that people understand not only the breadth of study in degrees like English but also the wide range of valuable skills that people studying arts and humanities subjects acquire. So my “myth busting” about English Literature graduates would be to say - “your skills are very much in demand!”

As a society we need English graduates as much as we need STEM graduates. Not only that, English graduates are in huge demand by employers, but have to think “outside the box” in terms of the fields in which they choose to work. It’s not just about journalism and PR, worthy as these fields are.

To take just one example. If you’re an English student interested in technology and computers, even if you don’t know much about the technologies themselves but you’re fascinated, say, by the potential impact of AI on our lives, then many of the big consulting companies (PwC, Bain etc) are very interested in talking to you.

So think broadly and think big when you think about careers - two things that your English Literature degree will surely have taught you!

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