Why study this course

In combining studies in English Language and Literature, you will pursue a Joint Honours programme that will equip you with the skills and knowledge to understand, analyse and articulate solutions for the complex problems facing society today.

In English Language we’ll look at how language is structured and used in the social world. There are two key aspects to doing this: First, knowledge of the relationships between linguistic structures, individual identity, and social organisation. Second, the acquisition of skills for analysing language, not just as it can be used but as it is used in context. In Literature, you will study literature from different periods and cultures, and across the range of principal literary genres. You will not be restricted to studying the printed word: we are intrigued by the connections between literature and film, art, history, technology, language, and everyday life, and our teaching reflects these interests. You will learn how literature addresses social, environmental, and economic concerns with the aim of creating a better, more inclusive world and developing sustainable solutions for the future of the planet.

Acquiring career-enhancing skills, you’ll have the opportunity to analyse and produce different types of texts and work with specialised software. You’ll gain skills from analysing real-world examples of language and learn how to construct arguments and communicate ideas to different audiences.

You’ll graduate with a range of professional skills, including collaboration, communication and critical thinking. You will be aware of the ethical, social and linguistic challenges that face contemporary society and industry, and have the ideas and confidence required to solve them.

Our community is welcoming, supportive, and student-centred. We’re diverse in outlook and home to the globally respected Centre for Language and Communication Research.

Learning and assessment

Throughout the degree, our aim is to support you to become an independent, creative and critical thinker.

First year teaching provides carefully structured support through lectures and seminar discussions to help you develop key skills and gain confidence. Teaching in Years 2 and 3 is lecture- and seminar-based and moves gradually in the direction of specialisation and independent research. By the final year you’ll learn through guided independent reading and smaller interactive workshops and seminars, discussing new research with internationally recognised academics who are currently working in that area. You’ll have access to all course materials through our electronic learning environment.

In this supportive environment you’ll develop your abilities to closely analyse texts and arguments, collaboratively work through problems, construct your own arguments, and present your ideas clearly to others. You will also develop skills in communication and collaboration that you can transfer to the world of employment.