Competition to study English Literature at university is now tougher than ever before. How can you make sure your application stands out?

What is expected of you at university? How will you adapt to the changes in teaching, learning and lifestyle?

The world of English Literature is an unfamiliar yet exciting one, and clear guidance on how to cope with the demands of university-level study is essential if you want to succeed.

Andrew Green takes you from the A level/school/college classroom to the university lecture theatre, covering everything from:

• deciding which university and course is right for you
• making initial applications
• tackling Summer reading lists

to the skills needed for studying at degree level:

• preparing for lectures, seminars and tutorials
• interpreting reading lists and developing your reading skills
• applying literary theory
• becoming a better writer
• referencing an essay and avoiding plagiarism
• researching online.

Whether you are just thinking about taking English Literature to degree level, or needing help through your university course, Starting an English Literature Degree is the must-have companion.

'This unusual, detailed, and thought-provoking book will help students of English Literature come to grips with their studies and take a share of responsibility for their own learning. It thus has the potential to make a major impact on the way English is studied.' - Professor Ben Knights, Director, English Subject Centre

Initial Bearings
Teaching and Learning at University
Independent Study
Seminars and Workshops
Lectures
Reading
Writing
Using ICT
Final Thoughts
Appendix I: Ideas for Paired and Group Study
Appendix II: Recommended Reading
Appendix III: Literary Terms
Appendix IV: Timeline

ANDREW GREEN is Senior Lecturer in English Education at Brunel University, UK. He previously taught English in a variety of schools in Oxfordshire and London, and was Head of English at Ewell Castle School, Surrey. He is author of a series of A-Level student text guides.