Course summary

English at Birmingham City University is a subject that encompasses the study of literature, language, drama and creative writing. Ours is a community where each individual is empowered to shape their learning, research and practice in creative, innovative and thought-provoking ways. We are ambitious in our creative and critical practice, in challenging convention and in developing an inclusive curriculum that reflects the distinctiveness of every student. If you enjoy all aspects of English study and want maximum flexibility to shape your degree and develop your own areas of interest and expertise, this course is ideal for you. In your first year you’ll gain a strong grounding in all areas of English study and then start to use this knowledge to build a degree which most suits your emerging talents. Along the way you’ll benefit from being a part of a vibrant community of staff and students who understand the impact that English has made and continues to have on regional, national and global cultures. Our teaching is student-focused and research-led, and learning takes place in a friendly and supportive environment. You will be taught by expert researchers and practitioners who foster a community of experimentation, innovation and inclusion which will allow you to flourish and grow. Not only will this degree equip you with a strong subject knowledge, but it will also allow you to develop key transferable skills which are highly prized by a range of employers. English and Journalism pathway This course is ideal if you wish to follow a career in the dynamic and competitive world of journalism. You will focus on the development of your core knowledge and skills for English as well as gaining valuable experience working on live stories in media environments, which will teach you how to craft a story in a way that engages the audience. It combines the study of literature, language, drama and creative writing from the School of English with skills essential to an intelligent media professional from the School of Media. You will have access to our industry-standard media facilities throughout your studies, alongside guest lectures from industry professionals. By the time you graduate, you will be a thinking journalist with a specialism in news, broadcasting, features or design. Foundation Year The foundation year is designed to give you the opportunity to develop your academic and interpersonal skills while developing your subject knowledge further to support you to success on your academic path. By studying a foundation year, your first year will be spent learning a wide range of broad subject areas which then open up opportunities for you to specialise further in your next year – which would be the first year of a full degree programme.