English literature is the study of texts from around the world and across time. It encompasses works in all genres, from poetry and novels to drama and film. Anyone who enjoys reading and wants to deepen their understanding of the ways in which language can be used to create meaning can study the course. It is one of the most popular courses offered in Kenya.
English literature course can be done at Masters, Degree and Diploma level. You need to apply either as a self – sponsored student or as a government sponsored student at the KUCCPS portal.
Requirements

Just like any other course of study, there are various requirements that are needed. Check out the requirements before enrolling for the program study.
These requirements include:
Masters Level
- Upper Second class honors degree in relevant field from recognized institution.
- Or
- 2 years of publication after the completion of degree in relevant field.
The course takes a period of between 18 months to 3 years.
Degree Level
- KCSE Mean grade of C+ and above.
- You should have C+ and above in English subject and D+ in Mathematics.
- If you have a Diploma or equivalent from a Senate recognized institution.
The degree program takes 4 years of study, while with diploma certificate it takes up to 3 years of study.
Diploma
- Minimum grade of C plain in KCSE.
- C plain in English subject.
- D+ in Mathematics.
The course takes 3 years of study.
University and Colleges Offering English Literature

Are you wondering where will you study the course from? If so, here is a list of accredited universities that offer English Literature Course. Be sure to meet the cluster points for the specific university.
The following are universities offering the Masters and Degree include:
- Kenyatta University Main campus
- University of Nairobi Kikuyu campus.
- Moi University Town campus.
- Maseno University.
- Strathmore University.
- Mt. Kenya University.
Universities offering Diploma level include:
- University of Kabianga
- University of Eldoret.
- Rongo University.
- Gretsa University Thika.
The list is endless, make sure you make google your friend and get enough information about the campuses offering the courses.
Units Covered
The course is divided into eight compulsory units, each covering a different aspect of literature and grammar. These units are:
Introduction to Literature and Styles.
Close Reading and Discourse Analysis.
Textual Analysis and grammatical structures.
Literary Theory and Criticism.
Research; Shakespeare.
Creative Writing.
Literature and Society.
The course is divided into eight compulsory units, each covering a different aspect of literature and grammar. These units are:
- Introduction to Literature and Styles.
- Close Reading and Discourse Analysis.
- Textual Analysis and grammatical structures.
- Literary Theory and Criticism.
- Research; Shakespeare.
- Creative Writing.
- Literature and Society.
There are other common units you will learn as well. They include History, Sociology, Philosophy, HIV and AIDS, Academic Writing and College Algebra.
Objectives

By the end of the course, you should be able to:
1) Develop analytical and critical thinking skills
2) Gain a greater appreciation for the ways in which language can be used
3) Improve your communication skills
4) Expand your knowledge of different cultures and historical periods.
Employment

Upon completion of the course you will be able to seek career in a teaching, publishing and writing or other related fields e.g NGOs, IEBC and Huduma Centre. If you complete a masters level, you can pursue your career as a lecturer in campus.
Bottom line
The course is designed to equip students with literary knowledge and skills that will enable them to analyze, interpret and appreciate literary texts.