Literature Courses

What is Literature?

The definition of a work literature is quite subjective, but is generally considered to be a body of written work that has artistic or intellectual value. Besides being defined as either fiction or nonfiction, literature can be classified by its technique - poetry or prose - or by the major forms that it can take, which include novel, short story, or drama. It is also often studied according to the region or time period during which it was written.

Online Literature Courses and Programs

Degrees in literature sometimes get a bad rap, but students with this type of knowledge base are well equipped for careers in a variety of industries. Students of literature learn to develop comprehensive written and spoken communication skills, argue a point, frame a narrative, and analyze various levels of meaning.

Dive into sub-fields such as comparative, contemporary, modernist and romanticist literature on edX. Explore some of the greatest literary works of our time, or learn how to write your own. With the UC Berkeley book club, you can join a global discussion on key works such as The Jungle, Pride and Prejudice, and Dracula. A series of courses from Harvard dive into the history of the development of the book as a piece of writing, and into the key figures and players in the history of poetry in America.

Jobs in Literature

A degree in literature can be used to launch careers in a variety of fields. Graduates of literature programs may go on for further study in the subsets of English, American, or French literature, and ultimately teach at the high school or university level. Others may use the solid foundation an English literature degree provides to pursue careers in digital publishing, media and journalism, marketing and public relations, and advertising. Many professionals in politics, law and business also have literature degrees. In fact, many well-known public figures , such as actress Emma Watson, politician Mitt Romney and Supreme Court judge Clarence Thomas, earned a literature degree.

Explore a Career with a Literature Degree

Establish a solid foundation in literature from Harvard, Dartmouth, UC Berkeley, Wellesley and many others. EdX offers a variety of high-quality courses that will help you understand the important works of history, while developing skills essential for career success. Browse our courses and enroll today.