English Studies

Program Overview

The study of English is concerned with the history and practices of writing in English and encompasses literary works spanning English, Anglo-Irish, American and post-colonial cultures. It aims to develop a thorough knowledge of the history of these literatures while also enabling students to develop a sophisticated critical consciousness and an awareness of critical and cultural theory. Compared to (Joint Honours) students, English Studies students cover a longer historical range (including before 1300) and also consider topics such as Popular Literature and Childhood Literature. How competitive: applicants from the EU apply through the CAO and are ranked on points. In round 1 of 2026, places went to applicants with 546 points or more. On Trinity's indicative scale for the IB, that is about 41 points, or about 39 with Higher Level Mathematics at 4 or better, which adds 25. Applicants from outside the EU apply to Trinity directly and are assessed individually.