Course Overview

The English Tripos gives students a chance to study great works of literature from the past 700 years, teaches them to connect them in exciting new ways, and encourages them to reflect on today’s culture in its rich and complex relation to the past. The course is also about concentration and sharp focus, thinking afresh about how and why texts connect with readers and (sometimes) make a difference to the world. At Fitzwilliam we introduce students to a wide range of approaches and encourage them to develop their own perspectives and critical voices. Intellectual curiosity, imagination, the capacity for incisive analysis, organisational ability and commitment to hard work are all qualities we value in our English students. Find out more about the course here.

The Benefits of English at Fitzwilliam College

English is one of the liveliest subjects at Fitzwilliam, and the students are supported by a large number of permanent Fellows who research areas range from Shakespeare to 19th Century poetry and American literature. Our students also benefit from the generosity of alumni who have provided funds to support them in all sorts of activities, from studying a foreign language to travelling to research a dissertation, to visiting the theatre.

Facts and Figures

Average intake each year: 8-10

Typical A Level offer: A*AA

Typical IB offer: 41 – 42 points with 776 at Higher Level

We may modify offers to take account of individual circumstances.

Essential subjects: A Level/IB Higher Level English Literature or English Language and Literature

Application Process

Applicants are asked to submit two essays as part of their application. Applicants who are invited to interview will then be required sit the English admissions written assessment.

Director of Studies

Dr Victoria Condie

Professor Subha Mukherji

Professor Kasia Boddy

Find Out More

Every year, the College runs an Arts and Humanities Taster Day for Year 12 (England and Wales), S5 (Scotland), Year 13 (Northern Ireland) or equivalent students. More information about this will be posted in the autumn.

If you want to find out about our open days or visiting the College, see here.