Before diving into whether a BA in English is hard, let’s talk about careers and courses. In the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, it’s crucial to pick something that aligns with your strengths and passion. You need to excel, which means putting your heart into the subject and achieving good results. Don’t just choose a subject because it’s popular or has broad career prospects. Consider your skills and potential.
The Real Question: Is BA English Hard?
The difficulty of a BA in English really depends on the individual. If you’re asking whether it’s difficult, you might be uncertain about your abilities. The truth is, nothing is hard if you have the right skills and dedication.
No, BA English isn’t impossibly difficult to the point that you won’t pass, unless you’re not putting in any effort. But do you want to merely pass? Or would you rather excel?
Instead of focusing on whether it’s hard, let’s look at the traits that will help you succeed as an English major.
Qualities for Success in BA English
- A Love for Reading
This is a must. You’ll need to go beyond your syllabus and read additional materials related to the themes, eras, and authors you’re studying. If you don’t enjoy reading, it will be hard to keep up. Success in BA English means embracing the joy of reading, not just as an academic requirement, but as a passion. - Curiosity and a Thirst for Knowledge
BA English is deeply connected to society, culture, and history. You need a natural curiosity about the world, its past, and its present. Even if you don’t have this yet, college will help develop it. Be open to learning, and walk into class because you want to learn, not because you have to. - Good Grammar and Writing Skills
Writing is a big part of BA English, and your grammar needs to be solid. If you struggle with grammar or writing, now’s the time to work on it. You’ll be required to write well-thought-out essays and assignments, so expressing yourself clearly and correctly is key. - Critical Thinking
You’ll need to learn how to think critically—questioning everything, digging deeper, and connecting what you read to real-life experiences. This skill will develop as you move through your degree, and it’s essential for doing well. - Sincerity and Consistency
BA English can be demanding at times, with heavy reading loads and assignments. Stay sincere in your efforts, attend lectures, keep up with your readings, and make sure you understand the material rather than just memorizing it. Laziness will hold you back.
Conclusion: Is BA English Right for You?
If you’re passionate about books, words, and exploring the world through literature, BA English could be a great fit. But if you’re just going through the motions, it may become boring or feel average.
Ultimately, take a course you can truly love. If you have the passion and the skills, go for it! With the right mindset, BA English will not just be manageable—it will be an enriching experience.