English Language and Literature

English language and literature brings together two related but distinct disciplinary approaches to the study of texts. English language study examines how language works, how it is structured at the levels of sound, word, sentence, and discourse, how it varies across social groups and historical periods, and how it is used to achieve effects in spoken and written communication. English literature asks what literary texts mean and how they achieve their meanings, developing your ability to read with care and interpretive intelligence across the range of genres and periods.

Studying both gives you an unusually complete picture of the medium through which literature operates, and each discipline sharpens the tools you use in the other.

At Birmingham City University, this part-time BA (Hons) is a balanced programme that reflects the multidisciplinarity of contemporary English studies, developing you as a reader of texts and critical concepts with an emphasis on the precise analysis of language, its structures, and effects. The programme includes a sandwich year and work placement opportunities, giving you the chance to apply your analytical and communication skills in professional contexts before you graduate and to build the practical experience that employers value. You will develop skills in linguistic analysis, literary criticism, research, and clear and accurate writing, engaging with texts across a range of periods, genres, and media.

The combination of language and literature study develops skills that are valued across an exceptionally wide range of careers. Many graduates pursue roles in publishing, journalism, copywriting, content writing, communications, public relations, and broadcasting. The precision in language use that the course develops is particularly valued in editing, teaching, and any role where clear and effective writing is central.

Many graduates move into English teaching in schools, and some go on to work in speech and language therapy following further professional training. Postgraduate study in English literature, linguistics, applied linguistics, or creative writing is open to graduates who wish to specialise further or pursue academic research.