Course summary

This degree explores our dependence on language from different perspectives. In linguistics, you'll learn about the nature and development of different languages. In philosophy, you'll develop your understanding of the philosophy of language, as well as other key philosophical areas such as ethics, metaphysics and logic. You'll also tackle real-world issues, examining topics like global justice, climate change and feminism through a philosophical lens. As a dual honours student, you'll divide your studies between the School of English and the Department of Philosophy. Choice and flexibility are at the heart of our teaching, which means you can pursue and develop your own interests. At every level, there is a wide variety of modules to choose from. You will be taught by world-leading experts from both departments. You'll be required to take a minimum number of credits within both departments each year, but how you choose to divide your modules after this is up to you: split your modules evenly between English and philosophy, or choose to weight your degree in favour of one subject or the other. In your first year, you'll receive a solid foundation across both disciplines. Your core linguistics modules will teach you the analytical techniques and concepts you need to become a successful linguist (linguistic theory, historical linguistics, sociolinguistics, and research methodology), while your philosophy modules will introduce you to some of the central areas of philosophy (ethics, political philosophy, theory of knowledge, philosophy of mind, history of philosophy and ancient philosophy). In your second and third year, you can build on this foundation however you choose - both departments offer an extensive range of optional modules, which means you can focus on the areas that interest and inspire you the most. Research is central to the student experience here in Sheffield. All our teaching is informed by the latest findings, and all our students have the opportunity to carry out their own research project as part of their degree. Outside of your degree, there are many ways to develop your interests, insights and critical faculties. For example, our award-winning student-led volunteering project Philosophy in the City introduces school children to philosophical ideas they can apply to everyday life.