English Language and Linguistics BA Honours

Depending on whether the course is taken as a joint Honours or a major/minor combination, the balance of the two subject areas varies.
In general, this degree combination will develop your knowledge and understanding of how the English language works in terms of its structure, how it has changed over time, and the ways in which it is employed in different spoken and written contexts. Your knowledge of English will be informed and contextualised by your wider study of language as a human faculty. In linguistics, you examine what human languages have in common and how they vary in formal terms.
The degree will particularly help to develop your skills of data analysis and the critical evaluation of theories of language. You can study an elective module from across the University in each year.
In Year 3 you can complete a Dissertation in English language or linguistics, and there is also the opportunity to take an internship module during that year. The main modes of teaching are through seminars, lectures and workshops, but much of your learning is independent, conducted beyond the classroom (individually and in groups) in the library, at home, and via online learning.
Assessment is particularly varied in linguistics and English language, from small analytic exercises of language data through to the preparation and execution of your own research project for your dissertation. Different modules include small written reports, individual and group presentations, essays and exams.
Subjects of study
The following subjects are indicative of what you will study on this course. For more details on course structure and modules, and how you will be taught and assessed, see the full course document.
Year 1 (Credit Level 4)
Subjects of study include:
Exploring Language
Introduction to Language and Literature
English Language and Linguistics Tutorial
Language Myths
Words, Meaning and Text
Year 2 (Credit Level 5)
Subjects of study include:
Child Language Acquisition
History and Discourse
English Language and Linguistics Tutorial
Language Structure and Meaning
Literary Linguistics
Year 3 (Credit Level 6)
Subjects of study include:
Applied Language Studies
English Language and Linguistics Dissertation
Language and Power
Language Contact and Change
Language Form
Professional Experience and Development
Studies in Literary Language
Westminster electives
As part of your course you can take elective modules. Electives are an exciting opportunity to widen your experience at university and to gain skills and knowledge that will help make you more employable.