Rows of books with circular space in the centre

Literature courses

Discover a world of words. Homer to Dante. Shakespeare to Woolf. And all the voices that followed.

Learn literature with us

Love literature? Immerse yourself on a course with us. Focus on the works of literary and theatrical greats throughout the ages. Explore form, genre and theme. Get the whole story by considering context. You’ll read closely, share ideas and projects, and develop your analytical and critical thinking skills as part of the journey.

Part-time courses for every kind of learner

Our literature courses are part-time, so you can study around your work and life. Whether you’re starting to explore the subject or are more experienced, we offer a range of options:   

  • in-person weekend courses
  • short online courses
  • online undergraduate qualifications (some of which alternate year-to-year) 

Interactive learning with leading academics

Join us for high-quality learning and a collaborative approach to literature. Your tutors will be experts in their field. They’ll get to know you as an individual and give personalised feedback. And as part of our community of learners, you’ll also share ideas, engage in lively discussion and learn from each other. 

Flexible qualifications: standalone or keep learning

Our award-bearing literature courses are Cambridge qualifications in their own right. Depending on the course you take, you may also be able to build towards a further award with us, or transfer credits to pursue studies elsewhere.  

Study literature at undergraduate level with us, and you can continue from:  

  • a certificate to a diploma (level 4 to 5)
  • a diploma to an advanced diploma (level 5 to 6)
  • specific English literature and creative writing courses with us towards a BA (Hons) degree with the Open University.

For more information on continuing studies after your course, check the individual course page or contact us.

Explore literature

Browse our course options in literature and book or apply.

Courses you might be interested in

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Meet Our Academics.

Dr Jenny Bavidge