English Language and Linguistics

*This course was previously called English Language.

Explore the nature and functions of language, particularly English, to gain a deeper understanding of human communication.

You will develop skills and knowledge that enhance your ability to understand how communication operates and how to use language effectively. You will be exposed to various theoretical approaches and learn to apply them to your own communication.

What you learn in this degree is rooted in real-world contexts. English, with its cultural, political, and economic influence, is a valuable tool, and mastering its use is essential for employability. Our graduates have pursued further research in areas like forensic linguistics and the language of coercive control, and have built careers in media, publishing, teaching, the Civil Service, and marketing.

Key features

• Study the richness of human language and communication, with a focus on English as the first truly global language in its many forms.

• Explore English as a spoken, written, and digital language, while developing your ability to analyse and produce digital communication.

• Work with and learn from active researchers whose work in areas such as pidgin and creoles, gender and sexuality, pragmatics, and information warfare directly informs your course.

• Experience a wide variety of teaching and assessment methods – not just ‘chalk and talk’ and ‘death by PowerPoint’. This will include writing reports, analyses, group and individual presentations, blogs, and simulation or roleplay exercises—moving beyond traditional lectures and essays.

• Select from complementary routes in Creative Writing, Drama, Film, History, Journalism, or Media. These carefully chosen pathways enrich your understanding of your main subject and broaden your skillset, giving you more career options as a graduate.

• Develop transferable skills in critical and creative thinking, independent and collaborative work, project planning, time management, and effective communication. Skills acquired on this course make our graduates highly employable and sought after in the workplace.

• Enhance your employability with opportunities to study, work, and travel abroad through the Turing Program, international partner institutions, and DMU Global.

• Benefit from block teaching, where most students study one subject at a time. A simple timetable will allow you to really engage with your learning, receive regular feedback and assessments, get to know your course mates and enjoy a better study-life balance.