BA (Hons) English Language and Literature at University of Essex

Programme overview

The BA English Language and Literature combines the study of language and literature, covering how English has developed over time and varies across societies and regions, alongside literary traditions from the 15th to 17th centuries, the United States, the Caribbean and contemporary global writing.

Department: School of Language, Literature, and Media | Duration: 3 years (optional fourth year for placement or study abroad) | Intake: October 2027 | Study mode: full-time; year abroad option, placement year option | Location: Colchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 includes Fundamentals of the Human Speech System, Introduction to the Study of Language, Words and Sentences, Foundations of Sociolinguistics and Origins and Transformations in Literature and Drama. Later modules include Syntax: The Structure of Sentences, Research Methods for Language and Linguistics, a linguistics project, and literature and English language options.

Career pathways

Graduates can work in publishing and media, education, communications and marketing, the creative industries, and the public sector and research.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

UK applicants: 112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 full A-levels. IB: 29 points in the IB Diploma or 112 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of 2 Higher Level subjects. Essex accepts A-levels, AAQs, BTECs, Access to HE Diploma, T-levels and most other qualifications that hold UCAS tariff points; acceptability of some non-A-level qualifications such as BTECs may depend on the subject studied and units taken. Contextual offer (UK-resident applicants from underrepresented groups): 96 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 full A-levels. International applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component, or a specified score in an equivalent accepted test; a pre-sessional English pathway is available for those who do not meet the IELTS requirement. Applications are made through UCAS (Essex institution code E70).

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year. Home/UK tuition fee per year; fees increase for each academic year of study. Placement year: 20% of the standard tuition fee for that year; full year abroad: 15%. Source

International applicants: GBP 22,575 a year. International tuition fee per year; fees increase for each academic year of study. Placement year: 20% of the standard tuition fee for that year; full year abroad: 15%. Source

Intake: October 2027

Duration: 3 years (optional fourth year for placement or study abroad)

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