Which university subject did J.K. Rowling study before becoming a published novelist?

J.K. Rowling studied French and Classics at the University of Exeter.

She began at Exeter in 1983 and completed her degree in 1987. Her course included French, and she spent part of her studies in Paris as an assistant teacher. Classical languages and literature also formed part of her academic background.

Rowling’s university subject is sometimes simplified to English because of her later career as a novelist. However, she did not study English Literature as her degree subject. Her language training and reading in classical mythology are often discussed alongside elements that appear in her fiction.

After university, Rowling worked in various administrative and research roles. Her professional path therefore moved through languages, office work, and teaching-related experience before the publication of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.