English Language and Linguistics (BA)

Program Overview

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It delves into language acquisition, production, comprehension, and evolution, equipping students with a deep understanding of language and its variations. Graduates develop strong analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills, making them highly sought-after in fields such as teaching, journalism, and business.

Program Outline

This program unveils the systematic nature of language acquisition, production, and comprehension in diverse contexts. You will delve into the shared aspects of all languages, what differentiates them, and how they evolve over time.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with a thorough understanding of the human capacity for language.
• Analyze the shared traits and distinct features of diverse languages.
• Investigate the historical evolution and variations of language.
• Develop advanced skills in analyzing and critiquing language.
• Cultivate strong communication and critical thinking abilities.

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Outline:

The program spans three years, with each year comprising 120 credits for a total of 360 credits. You will progress through the program by successfully completing each year. Your final degree classification is based on your performance in the second and third years.

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Year 1:

• Two core modules establish a solid foundation in language description, analysis, and interpretation.
• Language and the Mind
• Reading and Writing in the Digital Age
• Developing English: History and Society
• Understanding Communication
• Drama: Stage and Page
• Star-cross'd Lovers: the Politics of Desire
• Transforming Visions: Text and Image
• Creative Reading
• Creative Writing
• Critical Reading and Critical Writing
• Transgressive Bodies in Medieval Literature
• Ways of Reading

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Year 2:

• Two core modules cover the essential elements of phonetics and phonology, grammar, and lexical semantics (word meaning), providing a comprehensive foundation in English language and linguistics.
• Optional modules delve deeper into key areas of study, including:
• Discourse
• Sociolinguistics
• History of English
• Child Language Development
• Digital Literacy
• Research Methods
• Stylistics
• First and Second Language Acquisition
• International Study Abroad (60 credits) Spring

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Year 3:

• Further flexibility is offered in year 3, with optional modules covering areas such as:
• Communication Disorders
• Forensic Linguistics
• Language Learning and Teaching
• Language and Ideology
• Corpus Linguistics
• Media Discourse
• Professional and Intercultural Communication
• Communicating in Relationships

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Assessment:

• A range of formative and summative assessment methods are employed, including essays, examinations, presentations, portfolios, and creative assignments.
• Essays and examinations assess your ability to gather, organize, evaluate, and deploy relevant information and ideas in well-structured arguments.
• Dedicated essay workshops and personalized feedback enhance your writing skills, while feedback on essays guides your future work.
• The optional final-year dissertation allows you to conduct in-depth research on a chosen topic, demonstrating your initiative in collecting and presenting material, and formulating a clear, cogent argument.

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Teaching:

• Diverse teaching and learning styles are employed, including lectures, seminars, and independent research.
• Modules typically last one semester and consist of two lectures and one seminar per week, alongside independent study.
• Learning activities vary depending on the module but may include interactive lectures, seminar discussions, student presentations, and small-group work.
• The University's Virtual Learning Environment, Learning Central, provides access to discussion forums, course materials, online tests, past exam papers, and examples of previous student work.
• Each student is assigned a personal tutor who offers guidance on academic performance, study techniques, module selection, and career planning.
• Regular "Academic Progress and Personal Development Meetings" are held with your personal tutor to discuss your progress.

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Careers:

• Graduates are equipped with a valuable skillset, encompassing both humanities and social science abilities, making them highly sought-after in various fields, including:
• Primary and secondary school teaching
• Teaching English as a foreign language
• Speech and language therapy
• (Digital) journalism
• Civil service and public administration
• Business and public service professions
• The program prepares you for success in these areas by providing opportunities to:
• Analyze and critique complex texts
• Develop imaginative approaches to diverse viewpoints
• Identify and apply relevant data
• Propose innovative solutions
• Communicate clearly and persuasively
• Manage deadlines and multiple tasks
• Learn from constructive criticism
• Collaborate effectively
• Adapt to new technologies and acquire new skills
• Take ownership of your learning and professional development

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Other:

• The program is designed to foster a welcoming and international community, with a rich learning environment.
• The globally respected Centre for Language and Communication Research provides access to cutting-edge research and expertise.
• The program emphasizes personalized support and guidance, ensuring a positive and successful learning experience.
• Graduates are known for their strong analytical and communication skills, making them valuable assets in various industries.

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Fees for home status

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees in the second and subsequent years of a course as permitted by law or Welsh Government policy. Where applicable we will notify you of any change in tuition fee by the end of June in the academic year before the one in which the fee will increase.

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Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland

We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Learn more about the undergraduate fees for students from the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

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Additional costs

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Accommodation

We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget.

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Living costs

We're based in one of the UK's most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.