Program Overview

How do humans learn language? We’re all experts in our native tongue, so why can it be so hard to become fluent in a language we learn later in life?

Through this BA English Language with a Language you’ll learn about the English Language but you’ll also have the opportunity to learn one of five languages – French, Spanish, German, Japanese or Mandarin. All are for beginners or GCSE level only, with the exception of Spanish, which can be taken by those who already have A-level Spanish.

This combined programme of English Language and a Language will give you an excellent grounding if you plan to teach children in primary or secondary schools following postgraduate teacher training.

In your first year, alongside core English Language modules, you’ll study language and mind, where you’ll analyse child speech transcripts and consider language acquisition. You’ll also explore the diversity of use of the English language including regional variants, pidgin and creole English, language and ethnicity, and slang and street English. In addition, you’ll take two modules in your chosen language each year.
Core modules in your second year focus on English grammar and the sounds of English. You can explore theories of how and why language developed and also have the option to take a language competencies module leading to a work placement. This could involve field work or observing teaching and learning methods in a college setting.

In your final year you can follow modules in different topics, including child language and communication, clinical linguistics, gender and language, and formulaic language, informed by our academics’ own research specialisms. In addition, you’ll study Global Englishes and take a compulsory project looking at a particular aspect of English Language teaching.

Why choose this course?

• An understanding of applied language, to underpin a career in teaching a language to non-native speakers
• A supportive, research-active academic team
• A flexible programme of study, allowing you to concentrate on areas you find especially interesting
• Access to huge online databases to underpin your original research projects
• CV-building potential through work placements and extra-curricular activities
• A guaranteed post-graduation interview with the School of Education