English Language and Literature (Hons)

Overview

The English Language and Literature (Hons) programme at University of Birmingham introduces you to a broad range of types and periods of literature, with a huge variety of different areas to pursue, from medieval literature to twenty-first-century digital literary culture. These include unparalleled resources for the study of Shakespeare, through our world-leading Shakespeare Institute.

On the Language side, you will have the opportunity to study the ways in which the English language has developed over time, variation in language use, ways in which language is acquired by both native and non-native speakers and the study of language use in different social contexts.

Careers

Studying for a Single Honours English Language and Literature degree at Birmingham is an unparalleled opportunity, not only to engage with both the literary and the linguistic dimensions of the discipline of English, but also to develop skills in intellectual analysis, critical thinking and articulate expression – skills that last a lifetime and qualify you for many possible careers.

You will also be encouraged to acquire practical skills that you will find useful in your future career, including oral presentation, professional documentation, time management, teamwork and the uses of information technology.

Our graduates have started careers with employers including media companies, educational institutions, local councils, publishers, charities and a wide range of large commercial organisations. They take up roles such as marketing coordinator, editorial assistant, creative advertising account executive, recruitment consultant and parliamentary caseworker. Many of our graduates pursue postgraduate study to specialise in an academic area, or prepare for careers such as law and teaching.