Best Countries for Literature: Study, Research & Career Opportunities
- Parnika
- Jun 23
- 3 min read
If you’re enchanted by the magic of words and want to explore the depths of literature, studying abroad can offer you a fresh perspective—and perhaps even a new home for your imagination. But with so many beautiful places to choose from, where should you go? Let’s dive into some of the best countries for literature studies, complete with costs, standout programs, and what awaits after graduation.
United Kingdom
The UK is like a living, breathing literary museum. From Shakespeare’s birthplace to the bustling publishing houses of London, it’s a book-lover’s dream. The University of Oxford’s BA in English Language and Literature is widely recognized as the gold standard—small tutorials, expert professors, and a reading list that’s almost intimidating in its brilliance.
Annual tuition: Around £28,000 (about $35,000) for international students.
Living costs: Between £12,000–£15,000 ($15,000–$19,000) depending on your lifestyle.
Research and career opportunities are abundant here. You could find yourself editing for a publishing house, writing scripts for film and TV, or even hosting your own podcast.
United States
The US blends literary tradition with modern innovation. Harvard University’s English Concentration is a flexible program that encourages you to mix classic literature with cutting-edge theory.
Annual tuition: Approximately $60,000.
Living costs: Around $20,000–$25,000 per year.
The real draw? Harvard’s libraries are breathtaking, and the city of Boston is alive with literary events. After graduation, you’ll find endless opportunities in publishing, teaching, and digital media.
France
France has an undeniable romance about it—think sidewalk cafes and late-night poetry readings. At Sorbonne University, the Licence de Lettres Modernes program will immerse you in everything from medieval poetry to existentialist masterpieces.
Annual tuition: Surprisingly affordable—about €3,000 ($3,200) for international students.
Living costs: Around €10,000–€15,000 ($10,500–$16,000) in Paris.
France’s cultural sector is also a welcoming place for literature grads, with opportunities in translation, cultural management, and journalism.
Italy
Italy’s literary heritage feels as vibrant as its art and architecture. At Sapienza University of Rome, the Laurea in Lettere Moderne explores Italian and European literature from Dante’s Divine Comedy to contemporary fiction.
Annual tuition: Around €1,000–€2,500 ($1,100–$2,700).
Living costs: Between €9,000–€12,000 ($9,500–$13,000) per year.
Beyond academia, Italy’s museums, publishing houses, and cultural centers open doors for literature students to share their passion in unexpected ways.
Canada
Canada’s multicultural vibe creates a fascinating literary landscape. At the University of Toronto, the English program is rigorous yet flexible, offering everything from Chaucer to modern Canadian voices.
Annual tuition: Around CAD 58,000 ($42,000) for international students.
Living costs: About CAD 15,000–$20,000 ($11,000–$15,000) a year.
Toronto is also a publishing hotspot, so graduates can dive into editing, cultural journalism, or digital storytelling.
Where Should You Study Literature?
It’s not just about the books—it’s about finding a place that sparks your creativity and makes you feel at home. The UK’s cobblestone lanes, the US’s lively academic vibe, France’s timeless charm, Italy’s passionate culture, and Canada’s inclusive spirit each offer something special. So take a moment to imagine yourself there: reading under a centuries-old oak in Oxford, chatting with a poet in a Parisian café, or writing your first book in a Toronto library.
Wherever you choose to go, literature will be your passport to new worlds—and who knows? You might just find a story of your own along the way.
We know and understand that the application process can be overwhelming, so we are here for you. The study abroad experts at Hello Study Global are there for you every step of the way. From preparing for entrance exams to college applications, we will guide you to success.
Feel free to reach out to us at Hello Study Global.
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