King's College London

Where English can take you

English equips you with a broad range of transferable skills that are valued across many professions. Through the study of literature, critical theory and historical contexts, you'll develop strengths in written and spoken communication, independent thought and judgement, critical thinking and research. These skills can be applied across careers in the creative and cultural industries, education, research, management, consultancy, public services and beyond.

Literary and cultural opportunities in the heart of London

Studying English at King's places you in the centre of one of the world's most vibrant literary and cultural capitals. From Shakespeare's Globe and the British Film Institute to libraries, archives, theatres and cultural venues across the city, London becomes an extension of your classroom. Many modules are delivered in collaboration with cultural institutions and local archives, providing opportunities to engage with literature in its wider cultural contexts.

You'll also study within one of the oldest English departments in the country, benefiting from a research-led environment and connections with cultural partners across London that support teaching, events and wider engagement with literature and the arts.

Career paths

Some of our English graduates have gone onto the following careers:

• Marketing Executive, Ensphere
• Charity Fundraiser, Gogen
• Content Editor, Thomson Reuters UK Professional
• Graduate Management Trainee, Sotheby's
• Junior Script Reader, Altered Image
• National Events Executive, Fundraising & Marketing
• Corporate Affairs Intern, Cadbury Plc
• English Teacher, St Giles College
• Lecturer, King's College London and other UK universities
• Recruitment Consultant, Michael Page International
• Website Administrator, Walkopedia.ne
• Librarian, London Borough of Barnet

Skills employers value

An English degree helps you develop a broad range of transferable skills that are highly valued by employers, including:

• Written and verbal communication
• Critical thinking and analysis
• Research skills
• Independent thought and judgement
• Interpretation of complex texts and ideas
• Close reading and textual analysis
• Cultural and historical awareness

Paul Dragoni – Creative Director

"I stumbled into copywriting with almost no idea what it was, which is probably not a bad way to begin a career in advertising. This was pre-Mad Men, so it wasn’t a path I’d grown up imagining. A friend told me to apply because I’d studied English at King’s and therefore, she assumed, I could do something useful with words. She was right, but only partly. King’s did help me write, but more importantly it taught me to notice how meaning is made – through style, tone, subtext, rhythm and cultural references. That has been invaluable in a career built around understanding people and finding the right language for different brands, ideas and experiences. Those are muscles I developed at King’s, and they’ve served me well as I progressed from Copywriter to Creative Director, living and working in London, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Bangkok and Dubai."

Hannah Gordon – National Lottery Heritage Fund

"My English degree at King’s College London helped me develop the confidence, critical thinking and communication skills needed to thrive in the working world. I learnt how to analyse complex ideas and conduct effective research, both of which are central to policy work. My interest in policy began in first year, when I was introduced to biopolitics. I quickly learned how literature could underscore a range of disciplines, including sociology, politics, philosophy, history, and my personal favourite, Christian theology. This interest developed further during one of my most challenging modules, Holocaust and Rwanda. I explored the importance of testimony, ranging from Marianne Hirsch’s concept of post memory to Raoul Peck’s film Sometimes in April. These studies deepened my interest in intangible cultural heritage and gave me the confidence to pursue a career in the arts and cultural sector. In my current role, I hear about the many ways people across the UK are working to preserve heritage for the next generation. In conclusion, an English degree opens your eyes to a world of possibilities while building the adaptable skills needed for an exciting career."

Find out more about our English BA graduates