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View of Durham Castle, Durham Cathedral and Framwellgate Bridge across the river

Discover English Studies at Durham University

Our Department of English Studies is one of the leading English departments in the UK and 38th in the world in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023. It offers teaching and research of the highest quality, with 90% of its research activity judged to be “world leading” or “excellent” in REF 2021. It is one of few university English departments in the world which teach and research in literature produced in Britain from the early medieval period to the present day as well as in anglophone literature from across the globe.

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3rd in the UK for English according to the Complete University Guide 2023
Athena Swan Bronze Award
Athena Swan Bronze Award Recognising our work to address gender equality
29th
29th in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 English Language and Literature
World leading research 90% of our research activity was judged to be 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent' in the Research Excellence Framework 2021
University student
"After I arrived in Durham, it was quite daunting to move from the light-hearted welcoming week at my college to the serious, academic environment of the English department. As it turned out, I had no reason to worry at all - the staff were very friendly and welcoming, as were the students. Most of us were new to Durham, and a large portion of the group is international as well."
Ida Marie Halvorsen
Former MA student

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A world of career opportunities

Durham English Studies graduates progress into a wide variety of careers. English equips students with both transferrable and subject-specific skills, so it's unsurprising that students move into professions such as media, law, and publishing, but also translate their specialism into sectors like video games design, management consultancy or arts organisations. According to HESA Graduate Outcomes, 93% of our 2019-20 leavers secured employment or went on to further study 15 months after graduating.  

 

 

University student
"The balance between coursework, extra-curricular lectures, pursuing publication or conference participation, and socialising has been ideal."
Anna Curry
Former MA student
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Explore our scholarships

We are delighted to offer International Scholarship opportunities of £5,000 per year tuition fee discount for Indian students joining us for Postgraduate study in 2023/24 or 2024/25.

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Life in Durham

Durham is a historic, multicultural city in the North-East of England with a famous Castle and Cathedral - together designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is only ten minutes away from Newcastle by train, with other cities including York, Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool within easy reach via public transport.

When you want to relax after studying, the city is surrounded by beautiful countryside which is ideal for walking and cycling, the open spaces of Northumberland and the North York Moors, and seaside beaches.
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Durham City Centre

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