English at UCD

Undergraduate English Programme information 2022-23

 BA Joint Honours Programme information for 2022-23

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BA Humanities Programme Pathway ENGLISH WITH CREATIVE WRITING 2023-24

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The below content is indicative.

Two Subject Degree (ENJ1): Stage 1 

The structure of the undergraduate English programme made it easy for me to explore my interests, and create a path that worked for me. First year provided me with a broad spectrum of English Literature, setting me up with critical thinking skills that would be crucial not only in English, but also useful in my other subject. As I progressed through second and third year, I could hone in on the topics I was most interested in, tailoring the course to be focused around these areas. With such an individualised course, I was never stuck studying a topic that bored me.

---Anna Graham, Joint Honours English Student, Class of 2016

I originally chose to study English because I liked to read. Studying English at UCD, however, has introduced me to a fascinating world of critical and cultural theory I now look forward to continuing my learning in. Getting to study English as a single subject major, in particular, allowed me the opportunity to gain a far stronger footing and deeper understanding of my chosen research area, and forge influential, formative relationships with many members of the school’s staff. Through the school, I also got the chance to study abroad for a year in Barcelona. This time — exploring a new culture and meeting new people from around the world — has been, without a doubt, the greatest experience of my life. My time at UCD — the diverse learning material, passionate and supportive staff, and close bond with my classmates — is something that I will carry with me for years to come.

---Seán Hayes, Single Honours English Student, Class of 2017

Going back to education after nearly three decades seemed daunting. It turned out to be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. The reason I came to UCD was to deepen my knowledge of English literature. I was not expecting to discover a passion for the plays of Shakespeare and Beckett; the novels of Dickens and Woolf; or the poetry of Marvell and Heaney. In my third year, I found myself immersed in Elizabethan Ireland as I completed a dissertation on Edmund Spenser. It hasn’t all been easy but every step of the way I have received guidance and encouragement from the teaching staff and fellow students. For me, UCD is where new discoveries have become lifelong passions.

---Pearse McCaughey, Single Honours English Student, Class of 2017

I started my undergrad in English literature without really knowing what to expect. Having a great love for reading, writing and storytelling, I initially saw my BA as means of encountering a diverse range of literature, not necessarily looking ahead to what I’d do once my degree was complete. Fortunately, not only did I acquire a valuable set of skills over the course of my studies, emerging as an effective communicator and critical thinker, but also discovered a passion for Medieval and Early Medieval literature. Now, coming towards the end of an MA in medieval literature and culture, I am considering pursuing a PhD in the near future, with an eye towards a career in academia. A useful skill set, an array of new interests and a close circle of friends have made my BA in English literature a truly memorable and worthwhile experience, one that I would unreservedly recommend.

---Karl Milne, Single Honours English Student, Class of 2016

We are now offering attractive new General Elective-only modules designed specifically for students from other programmes who are interested in taking English modules as part of their General Elective credit.  

There are also General Elective places in most of our Level One and Level Two English modules.

What do graduates of the School go on to do?

Our graduates go on to an enormous range of careers, from creative writing to filmmaking, by way of journalism, publishing, teaching and consulting. Our graduates are distinguished by their ability to adapt to a flexible and global labour market. The BA programme supports them in developing valuable employment skills including research, teamwork, problem-solving and communication skills, among others. Graduates of Arts programmes are in increasing demand in technology companies for their writing skills, lateral thinking and flexibility. Some of the many areas in which our graduates have flourished include education, media, performing arts, government, business, heritage and arts management, law and technology. UCD is particularly well known for its wealth of creative graduates, our writers, poets and dramatists, who cut their teeth during their undergraduate years. Many of our graduates also go on to postgraduate research, growing into the scholars and thinkers who shape the culture of the next generations.

Career Development @ UCD

While our students go on to pursue a wide range of avenues, they are supported by the School’s new Career Mentoring Scheme, in which final year students are matched with a graduate of the School who is now professional in a particular area, including journalism, arts administration, teaching, writing, business. The mentor provides guidance and advice on developing your career - this may include looking at your CV, suggesting directions to follow, and giving general advice on your postgraduate path. See more at the UCD Career Development Centre