Course Overview

The BA English Language and Literature program offers a comprehensive exploration of the English language, its structure, development, and global literature, providing a rich and interconnected academic experience. In your first year, you'll be immersed in the study of English literature from diverse perspectives and cultures, enhancing your understanding of the global literary landscape. Research-active academics will guide you through contemporary and classical works, challenging your perceptions and broadening your literary horizons. Simultaneously, you'll delve into English Linguistics, unraveling the scientific study of language's development, reflection of society, and evolution over time. Core modules in your second year will focus on English grammar, sounds of English, and period-based literature, spanning the Renaissance to the 20th century. An essential component of this year is the career development module, offering opportunities for teaching work placements, Stroke Association volunteering, shadowing speech and language therapists, or involvement in specialist language teaching in a sixth form college. Alternatively, you can opt for the Literature at Work module, engaging in a six-week work placement within the literary heritage industry or related fields. Between the second and final year, you have the option to study abroad or embark on a work placement for up to a year, adding valuable experiences to your academic journey and enhancing your CV. In your final year, you can specialize in areas that align with your interests. Options include children's literature, young adult fiction, 21st-century American literature, literary adaptations, and more. A unique module on Corpus Studies in English Language allows you to integrate your literature and language interests. Using the Sketch Engine text analysis tool, you can explore vast databases of language, conducting original research projects and asking questions that haven't been posed before. This module provides a platform for uniquely creative research endeavors, allowing you to analyze how specific words have been used in novels or literature with access to over 15 billion words. The BA English Language and Literature program not only equips you with a deep understanding of language and literature but also offers practical experiences and opportunities for specialization, ensuring a well-rounded and tailored educational experience.