The Bachelor of Arts in Literature is a four-year degree program that focuses on teaching students literature from all over the world from an Asian and a Filipino perspective. The program emphasizes theoretical and critical approaches in the analysis of literary genres by studying the nature, function, and value of literature in a comparative context. It also provides skills and training in investigating traditional and contemporary approaches to literary study, literary theory, and the relationship of literature to other branches of arts and sciences. Students will also learn skills in writing and reading creative and critical texts, reportage, and literary scholarship.

Recommended Senior High School Strand

Students who want to pursue a degree in AB in Literature are encouraged to take the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand under the Academic track. The curriculum focuses on human behavior, literature, education, politics, liberal arts, and society. The HUMSS strand will cover relevant topics that may be further discussed in their college lectures. 

Subjects and Curriculum

• Introduction to Fiction
• Introduction to Poetry
• Introduction to Literary and Cultural Studies
• Literary Theory and Criticism
• Creative Writing for Literature Majors
• Writing for Literature Majors

Admission Requirements

Qualifications

• The student must be a high school graduate. 

However, if they were not able to graduate high school, they may opt to take the Alternative Learning System (ALS) and pass the Philippine Educational Placement Test (PEPT) to qualify for college; the availability of courses for PEPT passers depend on the university.

• The students must pass the College Admissions Test of the university.

Basic Requirements

• Form 138 - High School Report Card (Original and Photocopy)
• Recommendation letter from High school principal and guidance counselor
• Most recent medical and dental health record
• Copy of NSO Certified birth certificate
• Certificate of Good moral character
• Copy of honorable dismissal
• Copy of high school diploma
• (1) Latest 2”x2” ID Picture

Program Outcome

Graduates of AB in Literature are expected to be able to:

• Articulate the latest developments in their specific field of practice
• Effectively communicate orally and in writing using both English and Filipino languages
• Work effectively and independently in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural teams

On-The-Job Training/Internship

During the fourth year of the program, students are required to attend an On the Job Training (OJT) in different companies and organizations within the media industry. Students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in an actual work setting. Usually, universities require them to submit a written report on their tasks, learning experiences, and hours rendered. Their work performance will also be evaluated by their immediate managers and will be submitted to their respective OJT coordinator. The number of hours required may differ in each university.

Board Exam

The AB in Literature does not have a board examination. However, graduates may opt to take the Civil Service Examination (CSE) conducted by the Philippine Civil Service Commission (PCSC) to qualify in working in government offices. Some graduates opt to take a Master’s degree followed by a Doctorate degree to gain expertise in the industry. 

Career Opportunities

Graduates of AB in Literature may pursue a career path in different companies and organizations within the media industry like local newspaper organizations, magazine companies, online publications, public relations, and advertising firms. They may apply as a translator, technical writer, book editor, advertising copywriter, public relations writer, manuscript reader, columnist, book critic, and fiction writer. Graduates may also explore work opportunities in schools and universities as an English teacher.