Bachelor of English Literature

University of New York in Prague students engaging in an English literature class discussion.

Study English Language and Literature in Prague

Earn an American-accredited bachelor’s degree in English language and literature in the heart of Europe.

The University of New York in Prague offers a dynamic Bachelor of Arts in English Literature program that combines the academic study of the English language and linguistics with a rich exploration of literary works, culture, and communication.

Why Choose UNYP’s English Literature Program?

American Accreditation: Graduate with a fully American-style degree.
International Learning Environment: Study in beautiful, historic Prague amid a diverse global student body.
Language + Literature + Culture: Explore not only literary works but also language structure, historical change, and cultural contexts.
Skills for Today: Gain strong analytical thinking, advanced writing proficiency, effective communication, and critical reasoning, all sought after in many fields.
Small Classes & Personal Support: Benefit from individualized attention and faculty who care about your growth.

Program Highlights

This program emphasizes the interplay of language and literature across cultures and time:

Advanced study of English grammar, syntax, and linguistics
Examination of British, American, and world literature in English (from classic to contemporary)
Literary theory, cultural criticism, narrative, and creative writing
Senior research project (capstone), where you conduct original scholarly work

Core Courses (Lower-Level)

Students begin with foundational courses that develop writing, analysis, and communication skills. These include:

Writing & Communication: English Composition 1 & 2, Academic Writing, Intercultural Communication
Literary Foundations: Introduction to Literature, American Literature (1600-1865), American or British Poetry, General Psychology
Language & Analysis: History of the English Language, Introduction to Linguistics, Reason & Argument
Literary Genres & Forms: Short Story, The Novel, Dramatic Literature, Great Books, Analysis & Interpretation of Literature

Advanced Courses (Upper-Level)

As students progress, they engage with specialized and advanced literary studies, including:

Expanding Literary Knowledge: American Literature (1865–Present), US Multicultural Fiction, Shakespeare (or another major author)
Exploring Literature & Meaning: Children’s Literature, Myths & Symbols, Literary Interpretation as Inquiry
Research & Capstone Work: Senior Project Proposal & Thesis

Electives & Specialization

Students can tailor their degree with complementary courses, focusing on specific genres, periods, or themes. They may also develop practical skills in areas like:

News Writing & Public Relations
Teaching English as a Second Language
Translation & Applied Linguistics

Additionally, students can select electives from other disciplines at UNYP, including Business, Communication and Media, International Relations, and Psychology.

What Can You Do with a Degree in English Literature?

Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths or further study because the skills they develop—writing, analysis, research, and communication—are in high demand. Potential careers include:

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL/ESL)
Publishing, editing, literary agencies
Journalism, content creation, copywriting
Public relations and marketing communications
Graduate study in English/language/literature or related fields

If you were considering becoming a high school English teacher in the Czech Republic after completing your Bachelor’s studies, there are two paths that you can take:

Obtain a master’s degree in English with a concentration on teaching at diverse universities, for example,

Charles University (Teacher Education of English Language for Lower and Upper Secondary Schools, Teacher Education of Education for Upper Secondary Schools)
Masaryk University (Lower Secondary School English Language Teacher Training)
University of Hradec Kralove (Teaching at Basic Art Schools — Playing a Musical Instrument and Solo Singing, Early Childhood Education with a Focus on Children with Special Needs)

Obtain a master’s degree in any Liberal Arts area and fulfill the additional qualification obtained through universities’ lifelong learning programs (according to Act No. 563/2004 Coll., §22 paragraph 2). These can be studied here at:

Charles University (Didactic for English Language for Low and Upper Secondary Schools)
Palacky’s University in Olomouc (General Pedagogy for Low and Upper Secondary Schools)
South Bohemia University (General Pedagogy for Low and Upper Secondary Schools – part-time)

International Learning Environment in the Heart of Prague

By choosing UNYP, you will be able to study in one of Europe’s most dynamic capital cities, one known for its culture, history, and cosmopolitan vibe. You’ll join an international community and benefit from: