Literature in English: What the Programme Involves and What Students Study in Art/Humanities
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Literature in English is a programme that focuses on the study, interpretation and appreciation of literary works written in English. It exposes students to different forms of literature and encourages them to examine how writers use language, characters, themes, structure and other literary techniques to communicate ideas.
In the JAMB brochure, Literature in English is listed among the programmes under Arts/Humanities and the Faculty/School/College of Arts. The programme is listed separately from related courses such as English Language, English Studies and English and Literary Studies.
What Do Students Study?
The programme generally involves close reading and analysis of literary works across different forms. Students may study poetry, prose and drama, while also examining the language, themes, characters, settings and techniques used by writers.
- Poetry and poetic techniques
- Prose and narrative writing
- Drama and dramatic techniques
- Literary criticism and interpretation
- Literary language and style
- Themes, characters and settings
- Different literary periods and traditions
- Analysis of texts and authors
What Is the Programme Really About?
Literature in English goes beyond simply reading novels or poems. Students are expected to examine how literary works are constructed and what they communicate. A particular text, for example, can be studied through its characters, themes, language, historical context, structure and the techniques used by its author.
This makes the programme useful for students who enjoy reading, analysing ideas, discussing texts and expressing their interpretations clearly.
Skills Students Can Develop
Studying Literature in English can strengthen skills in critical reading, written communication, analysis, interpretation, research and argument development. Students also have opportunities to become more attentive to language and the ways in which writers communicate meaning.
Who May Find Literature in English Interesting?
The programme may appeal to students who enjoy reading literary works, discussing stories and ideas, analysing characters and themes, or writing about texts. It can also suit students who are interested in language, culture, communication and the study of human experiences through literature.
Literature in English and Other English-Related Courses
Candidates should be careful not to treat Literature in English as exactly the same programme as English Language, English Studies or English and Literary Studies. The JAMB Arts/Humanities list presents these as separate programme entries, so the exact course selected during admission should be checked carefully.
For more information on the programme and its admission conditions, candidates can consult the document below.
UTME2027 Editorial Team
The UTME2027 Editorial Team publishes accurate, timely and well-researched JAMB news, admission updates, CBT preparation guides and official educational information for Nigerian students. Every article is reviewed before publication to ensure accuracy and clarity.
