Canterbury Christ Church University to Discontinue English Literature Degrees

A petition has garnered over 100 signatures, urging Canterbury Christ Church University to reconsider its choice to discontinue English literature degree programs starting September 2025. The petition was initiated by Freya Hodge, a second-year student of English literature and history. She stated that the university’s decision constituted a “betrayal to the city of Canterbury”. Ms. Hodge highlighted Canterbury’s status as “bursting with heritage,” noting that authors like Christopher Marlowe, Geoffrey Chaucer, and Aphra Behn originated from the city. A spokesperson for the university indicated a substantial decrease in student interest for the subject over recent years, adding that the course was “no longer viable in the current climate”. Ms. Hodge expressed surprise regarding the university’s decision to discontinue the subject, given its high regard at the school level. She characterized it as “disgusting” that students would be deprived of the chance to pursue studies in it. Canterbury Christ Church University affirmed its commitment to continue teaching the course to students presently enrolled in their first or second year. The university also stated that students undertaking English literature as part of their foundation year—defined as an additional year of study preceding an undergraduate course—will be provided with the option to transition to alternative programs. It further explained that it regularly assesses its subject offerings to ensure they align with the requirements of prospective students and employers. The institution added: “Colleagues will be supported throughout this transition in the coming months as they explore the impact with them.” The BBC has sought additional information from the university, specifically concerning the number of positions that will be impacted by this decision.