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English Language (W85) at Open University - UCAS

Open University

Degree level: Undergraduate
Awarded by: The Open University

English Language (W85)

Course summary

Explore human communication by focusing on the history, diversity and flexibility of the English language. You’ll learn what distinguishes machine language from human language and how people adapt communication in multilingual and multicultural contexts. You’ll investigate how language works, from written texts and conversations down to the smallest units of sound, and explore English as a creative medium for expressing humour, thoughts and emotions. While not designed to teach English to speakers of other languages, this diploma gives you the tools to think critically about language and prepares you for further study or a career where strong communication skills matter. Key features of the course

  • Explores the history of English, its contemporary diversity, its role as a global language and its use in various parts of the world
  • Engages in debates surrounding the historical and contemporary position of English in relation to other languages
  • Teaches strategies that promote critical analysis and evaluation of texts and an ability to reflect on your own language use
  • Develops you as a competent communicator, enhancing your employability
  • Reveals how the English language works and how the choice of words and grammar affects the message

Modules

This diploma has two stages. The first stage will introduce you to the study of language and communication in English. You’ll also choose two further complementary modules from a selection of English language and modern language modules. In the second stage, you’ll examine the history of the English language and its position in the world today. You’ll also choose one further complementary module from English literature, creative writing and modern languages.


How to apply

To apply for this course you will be taken to the provider's website, where you can find out more information and make an application.

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Year 1

Entry requirements

Qualification requirements

There are no qualification requirements for this course.


Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students

There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

2026/2027 academic year fees are not yet available.
English Language (W85) at Open University - UCAS