Introduction

English and Literary Studies is one of the most popular and intellectually engaging courses offered in Nigerian universities. It combines the study of English language, literature, linguistics, creative writing, critical theory, drama, poetry, and cultural studies. The course equips students with strong communication skills, analytical reasoning, creativity, cultural awareness, and research abilities. These skills make graduates highly valuable across different sectors.For many students preparing for JAMB or O’Level exams, selecting the right subject combinations is often a challenge. Others are unsure of the O’Level requirements, Direct Entry criteria, cut-off marks, or the universities that best offer the course. Some do not fully understand the career opportunities available after graduation, or the requirements for postgraduate degrees such as Master’s and Doctorate (PhD).This comprehensive article provides everything you need to know about English and Literary Studies in Nigerian universities.

1. JAMB Subject Combination for English and Literary Studies

To gain admission into English and Literary Studies, candidates must register the correct JAMB UTME subjects. Failure to choose the right subjects may automatically disqualify a student from admission consideration.

Compulsory JAMB Subjects

1. Use of English – (Mandatory for all candidates)
2. Literature-in-English – (Core requirement)
3. Any other two arts or social science subjects, such as:
   • Government
   • Christian Religious Studies (CRS)
   • Islamic Religious Studies (IRS)
   • History
   • Economics
   • Civil Education
   • Yoruba/Igbo/Hausa
   • French
   • Music
   • Fine Arts

Recommended Best Combination

The best and most competitive JAMB subject combination for English and Literary Studies is:

• Use of English
• Literature-in-English
• Government/History
• CRS/IRS

This combination gives you the highest chances of admission in most universities.

2. O’Level Requirements for English and Literary Studies (WAEC, NECO, or GCE)

Candidates must have at least five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, obtained in not more than two sittings.

Essential O’Level Subjects

1. English Language – (Compulsory)
2. Literature-in-English – (Compulsory)
3. *Any three of the following Arts/Social Science subjects:
   • Government
   • History
   • CRS/IRS
   • Fine Arts
   • Music
   • Yoruba/Igbo/Hausa
   • Economics
   • Civic Education

Additional Remarks

• Credit in Mathematics is not compulsory for the course but is required by some institutions for clearance.
• A credit in Government or History is an added advantage.
• Having a strong background in Literature-in-English increases your chances of admission.

3. Direct Entry Requirements for English and Literary Studies

Direct Entry admission allows candidates to enter into 200 level.Eligible candidates must possess one of the following:

A. A’Level Qualifications

• At least two A’Level passes in Literature-in-English and one other Arts subject.

B. NCE (Nigeria Certificate in Education)

Candidates with NCE in:

• English
• Literature-in-English
• Language Arts
• CRS/IRS
• Theatre Arts

with Merit or above are qualified.

C. ND/HND

A good result in related programs such as:

• Mass Communication
• Theatre Arts
• Linguistics
• Communication Studies

D. JUPEB / IJMB

A minimum of 7 points in relevant subjects including Literature-in-English.

4. JAMB Cut-Off Marks for English and Literary Studies

Cut-off marks vary by university, but we can categorize them:

General Recommended Cut-Off mark

• 180 and above in JAMB UTME

More Competitive Universities

These institutions may require 200–250:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• University of Ibadan (UI)
• University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)

Less Competitive Universities

Many state universities accept:

• 170–180

Departmental Cut-Off

Even after meeting the JAMB cut-off, candidates must also meet the departmental cut-off, usually based on post-UTME performance.

5. Duration of the Course

Duration depends on the mode of entry:

• UTME students: 4 years
• Direct Entry candidates: 3 years

However, some universities operate a flexible academic calendar that may allow for a 4- to 5-year completion due to strike, academic disruptions, or extra semesters.

6. What Students Study in English and Literary Studies

Students receive broad exposure to:

A. English Language Studies

• Grammar and Syntax
• Applied Linguistics
• Phonetics and Phonology
• Semantics and Pragmatics
• Discourse Analysis
• Sociolinguistics
• Stylistics

B. Literature-in-English

• African Literature
• Caribbean Literature
• American Literature
• Literary Theory and Criticism
• World Literature
• Poetry, Drama, and Prose Studies

C. Creative Writing

• Poetry crafting
• Playwriting
• Fiction writing
• Scriptwriting

D. Communication Studies

• Media Writing
• Editing and Publishing
• Speech Communication

E. Cultural and Critical Studies

• Feminist Theory
• Postcolonial Studies
• Gender and Identity Studies

This broad intellectual training prepares graduates for multidisciplinary careers.

7. Universities Offering English and Literary Studies in Nigeria

Below is a list of reputable Nigerian universities offering English and Literary Studies:

Federal Universities

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)
• University of Ibadan (UI)
• University of Benin (UNIBEN)
• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)
• University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
• Federal University Lafia
• Federal University Oye-Ekiti
• Federal University of Technology Minna (School of General Studies)

State Universities

• Lagos State University (LASU)
• Ekiti State University (EKSU)
• Rivers State University
• Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU)
• Ebonyi State University (EBSU)
• Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
• Delta State University (DELSU)
• Benue State University (BSU)

Private Universities

• Covenant University
• Babcock University
• Bowen University
• Madonna University
• Igbinedion University
• Lead City University

8. Career Opportunities for Graduates of English and Literary Studies

1. Education and Academia

• Lecturer
• English Language Teacher
• Literature Teacher
• Educational Consultant

2. Media and Journalism

• Journalist
• Editor
• Reporter
• Scriptwriter
• Columnist
• Proofreader

3. Publishing Industry

• Book Editor
• Magazine Editor
• Literary Agent
• Publishing Executive

4. Writing and Creative Industry

• Novelist
• Poet
• Playwright
• Screenplay Writer
• Copywriter

5. Corporate Communications

• Public Relations (PR) Specialist
• Corporate Communications Officer
• Speechwriter
• Brand Strategist
• Content Creator

6. Government and Administrative Services

• Civil Servant
• Diplomatic Services (Foreign Affairs)
• Information Officer

7. Digital Media and Online Careers

• Social Media Manager
• Digital Strategist
• Blogger
• SEO Content Writer
• Website Content Manager

8. Advertising and Marketing

• Advert Copywriter
• Communications Planner

9. Research and Cultural Institutions

• Research Assistant
• Cultural Analyst
• Museum Staff

10. Film, Theatre, and Entertainment

• Director
• Screenplay Consultant
• Theatre Producer
• Voice-over Artist

English and Literary Studies graduates are versatile, with opportunities across numerous industries due to strong communication and analytical skills.

9. Postgraduate Requirements for English and Literary Studies

A. Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Requirements

Some candidates with unrelated degrees may apply for PGD before Master's.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (3rd class or lower credit for HND)
• Transcript
• NYSC discharge/exemption

10. Master’s (M.A.) Requirements

Students applying for Master of Arts (M.A.) in English, Literature, or Language Studies must meet:

Requirements for M.A.

• Bachelor’s degree in English or related course
• Minimum of Second Class Lower (2:2)
• Transcript
• NYSC certificate
• Some institutions require an entrance exam or interview

Available Master’s Specializations

• M.A. Literature
• M.A. English Language
• M.A. Linguistics
• M.A. Creative Writing
• M.A. Cultural Studies
• M.A. Literary Theory

11. Doctorate (PhD) Requirements

For PhD studies, candidates must possess:

Requirements

• Master’s degree (M.A or M.Phil.) in English, Literature, or Linguistics
• Minimum of 60% or B grade in transcript
• PhD proposal
• Academic publications (optional but recommended)
• Successful interview

PhD Focus Areas

• Discourse Analysis
• Applied Linguistics
• Oral Literature
• African Fiction
• Literary Theory
• Theatre Arts
• Gender Studies
• Sociolinguistics

A PhD holder can work as a senior academic, researcher, or consultant in many fields.

12. Why Study English and Literary Studies?

1. Broad Career Flexibility

Graduates can work in media, teaching, corporate departments, publishing, government, NGOs, and more.

2. Strong Communication Skills

The course develops clear writing, public speaking, persuasion, and argumentation skills.

3. Critical and Creative Thinking

Students learn to analyze texts, interpret ideas, and create original works.

4. Global Opportunities

The English language is an international medium, opening career paths abroad.

5. Intellectual Fulfillment

For students who love reading, writing, and cultural exploration, the course is enriching.

13. Challenges Students May Face (and Solutions)

Challenge 1: Heavy Reading Load

Solution: Create a weekly reading schedule.

Challenge 2: Complex Literary Theories

Solution: Attend tutorials and group discussions.

Challenge 3: Writing Extensive Essays

Solution: Practice writing summaries and analyses frequently.

Challenge 4: Limited Practical Components

Solution: Engage in internships—media houses, publishing firms, libraries, etc.

14. Tips for Excellence in English and Literary Studies

1. Read Widely

Study novels, plays, poems, journals, and literary criticism.

2. Develop Writing Skills

Practice writing essays, articles, and creative pieces.

3. Participate in Debates and Presentations

These sharpen communication skills.

4. Learn Research Methods

Understand referencing styles such as APA, MLA, and Chicago.

5. Join Literary Clubs

Interact with peers, writers, and editors.

Conclusion

English and Literary Studies is an intellectually rewarding and versatile course that opens numerous career opportunities in writing, academia, media, corporate communication, public relations, publishing, and cultural studies. Understanding the correct JAMB subject combinations, O’Level requirements, Direct Entry criteria, and postgraduate pathways is essential for a smooth academic journey.With strong foundational knowledge, consistent reading habits, creativity, and communication skills, students can excel in this field and build successful careers in many industries.