Best UK Universities for English Language & Literature 2025 | QS Rankings

About English Language & Literature

English Language & Literature explores the richness of the English language, its development, and the vast canon of English literature. In the UK, English programs are renowned for their depth, critical thinking emphasis, and strong research traditions, preparing students for diverse careers in writing, publishing, education, and cultural industries.

UK universities offering English language and literature degrees provide comprehensive education covering literary analysis, linguistic theory, creative writing, cultural studies, and textual criticism. Programs often include independent research projects, creative writing workshops, and opportunities to study abroad, ensuring graduates develop both analytical and creative skills.

The QS World University Rankings 2025 for English Language and Literature evaluates institutions based on academic reputation, employer reputation, research citations, and the H-index—providing a comprehensive view of each university's standing in this competitive field.

Career Prospects

Graduates in English Language & Literature have diverse career opportunities in the UK's publishing, media, education, and creative sectors. With strong communication skills and critical thinking abilities, English graduates are highly valued across multiple industries.

Popular career paths include:

Publisher and Literary Agent
Journalist and Media Professional
Teacher and Education Specialist
Content Creator and Copywriter
Marketing and Communications Manager
Librarian and Information Specialist
Creative Writer and Author
Academic Researcher and Lecturer

The average starting salary for English language and literature graduates in the UK ranges from £20,000-£25,000, with experienced professionals in senior roles often earning £45,000+ annually. The field offers excellent opportunities for portfolio careers and entrepreneurship in the creative industries.

The UK's English and literature sector continues to thrive, driven by the enduring demand for strong communication skills and cultural literacy across all professions.

University	QS
University of Oxford	1
University of Cambridge	4
University College London	10
University of Edinburgh	14
King's College London	24
The University of Manchester	46
University of Warwick	51-100
University of Glasgow	51-100
University of Birmingham	51-100
University of Bristol	51-100
Durham University	51-100
University of Leeds	51-100
University of Nottingham	51-100
University of St Andrews	51-100
University of Bath	101-150
Cardiff University	101-150
University of Essex	101-150
Lancaster University	101-150
University of Liverpool	101-150
University of Sheffield	101-150
University of Southampton	101-150
Queen Mary University of London	151-200
Newcastle University	151-200
Queen’s University Belfast	151-200

University

University of Oxford

University of Cambridge

University College London

University of Edinburgh

King's College London

The University of Manchester

University of Warwick

51-100

University of Glasgow

51-100

University of Birmingham