Course summary

How do words work to shape and express human experience? This course explores the English language, its linguistic and literary heritage, significance and future. Learn about how language varies according to geographic, historical, social, and stylistic influences, as you encounter richly diverse texts across different literary and non-literary genres. Explore fiction, poetry, drama, speeches, advertising, news, and more from literary and linguistic perspectives. Working across a variety of historical periods, places, and cultures, you’ll consider how and why texts are produced, read, and understood, understanding the impact of creativity and power, engaging with theories that shape and underpin literary and language study, and discovering how critical approaches can change the way we see literature, language, and the world around us. You’ll choose optional modules covering language and literary topics in English from the Middle Ages to today and work with expert tutors with a wide range of research interests, developing your digital and communication skills. Effective communication drives the world. This course prepares you for a rewarding and fulfilling professional future. Graduates pursue careers in media, publishing, journalism, education, the cultural industries and creative arts, or enter fields including management, marketing, and business, where strong analytical skills are prized.