English Literature (British and Commonwealth)
Total graduates
250
2025 · 9 schools
International share
6.8%
17 international students
Bachelor's degrees
165
3.6% international
Master's degrees
59
15.3% international
Overview
English Literature (British and Commonwealth) is an academic discipline that explores the rich tapestry of literature produced in Britain and the Commonwealth nations. This field encompasses a wide range of texts, from the medieval period to contemporary works, reflecting diverse voices, cultures, and experiences. Students engage with the writings of iconic authors such as William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Virginia Woolf, as well as exploring postcolonial literature from Commonwealth countries like India, Nigeria, and Canada.
The study of British and Commonwealth literature not only focuses on literary analysis but also encourages critical thinking about the social, political, and historical contexts that shape these works. Through examining themes such as identity, power, and resistance, students gain insights into the complexities of language and culture across different eras.
Moreover, this discipline often incorporates interdisciplinary approaches, drawing from history, philosophy, and cultural studies. Students may analyze poetry, novels, drama, and essays, honing their analytical and writing skills in the process.
In addition to traditional literary criticism, there is a growing interest in digital humanities and new media, allowing scholars to explore literature through innovative methods. Graduates with a degree in English Literature (British and Commonwealth) are well-prepared for various career paths, including education, publishing, journalism, and beyond, as they possess strong communication skills and a deep understanding of cultural narratives. Overall, this field fosters a profound appreciation for literature's role in shaping human experience and thought.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2010 to 2025, graduates fell 59% and the international share went from 1.5% to 6.8%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 9 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
| Rank | School | State | Graduates | International |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #31 | New York | 115 | 11 | |
| #59 | Pennsylvania | 33 | 0 | |
| #121 | Virginia | 22 | 3 | |
| #179 | CCUNY Hunter College | New York | 7 | 1 |
| #208 | OOhio Northern University | Ohio | 1 | 0 |
| #250 | New York | 40 | 2 | |
| — | TTyler Junior College | Texas | 19 | 0 |
| — | UUniversity of Pittsburgh-Greensburg | Pennsylvania | 4 | 0 |
| — | UUniversity of Pittsburgh-Johnstown | Pennsylvania | 3 | 0 |
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Related jobs and pay
| Occupation | US employment | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary | 57,720 | — | $89,580 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2010–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.