English Language

Course Summary

We all use language every day, but how many of us stop to think about it? The study of language demands discipline, observation, exploration and imagination. Some aspects, like grammar and phonology, ask for particular attention to detail, accuracy and logical argument. Other topics, such as child language development and language variation, demand an ability to collect, analyse and evaluate your own data. Finding out how a language works and how societies communicate, combines a unique intellectual challenge with significant practical potential. You will also have the chance to use new resources, such as computer-held databases of linguistic data and you will be encouraged to embrace theoretical and technological advances in the study of language. Our BA English Language draws on Birmingham’s internationally renowned strength in applied linguistics, corpus linguistics, discourse analysis, grammar and stylistics. You will be able to tailor the programme to suit your strengths and interests and towards a wide range of careers. The skills you gain will make you a much sought after graduate. **Why study this course?** **Top 35 world ranking** - English Language and Literature at the University of Birmingham is ranked in the Top 35 in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2021. **Excellent reputation** - English ranks in the Top 10 in the Guardian University Guide 2021. **Broad range of specialisms to explore** - Birmingham is internationally famous for its work in corpus linguistics, stylistics, the language of social media, figurative language and language learning and teaching. You can focus on traditional aspects of the subject such as grammar, pragmatics or historical linguistics, but you can also explore newer areas such as Englishes used worldwide or English used in internet communication. Students also have the option to choose modules on our linguistics pathway in the second year, in order to pursue a BA in English Language and Linguistics. **Career path option routes** - your personal tutor will guide you through the programme, helping you to select options that will suit your chosen career path. We have four informal routes through the degree programme, which will help you into a wide range of different careers from advertising, through to management, through to speech therapy. An impressive* 95%* of students are in work or further study 15 months after the course (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021). **A vibrant staff and student community** - our department is very friendly and cohesive with plenty of extra-curricular opportunities, from working alongside members of staff on their research projects on our Undergraduate Research Scholarships to regular social events such as end of term parties, summer balls and visiting writer talks.

Course Details - Modules

First-year modules cover a broad base of the subject and are designed to introduce you to ways of studying at university. By the final year the modules you take will become more specialised and reflect the research expertise of the academic staff. More detailed module information can be found on the ‘Course detail’ tab on the University of Birmingham’s coursefinder web pages.

Course Details – Assessment Method

Assessment Methods are not listed for this Course.

Course Details – Professional Bodies

Professional Bodies are not listed for this Course.

How to Apply

26 January This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.

Application Codes

Course code: Q310

Institution code: B32

Campus Name: Main Site

Campus code:

Points of Entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

Year 1

Entry Requirements for Advanced Entry (Year 2 and Beyond)

Entry Requirements for Advanced Entry are not listed for this Course.

International applicants

Standard Qualification Requirements

A level in English Language, English Literature, English Language and Literature or a Modern Foreign Language is preferred. We also welcome applications from candidates who can demonstrate an interest in and an aptitude for the study of language, so other combinations of complementary Humanities and Social Science subjects will be considered. Please contact us to discuss.

6,6,5 in Higher Level subjects, to include Literature or Language and Literature.

BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM, plus an A at A-level in the required subject/s mentioned above. BTEC Diploma: DD, plus an A at A-level in the required subject/s mentioned above. BTEC Subsidiary Diploma: D, plus AB at A-level, including an A in the required A-level subject/s mentioned above.

Accepted in place of a non-required A level with the equivalent grade.

Accepted in place of A levels with the following grade equivalencies: D2 = A*; D3 = A; M2 = B. Combinations of A levels and Principle subjects are accepted. NB required subjects must be offered (see A level Section)

Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Minimum Further Information are not listed for this Course.