English Language BA (Hons) is a new and innovative course which caters for those students primarily interested in English Language as opposed to English Literature or a combination of the two.The course looks at language, and specifically English, from multiple perspectives including its structure, nature, how it reflects – and is reflected by – society, and how it is processed in the brain.In addition to offering students the opportunity to progress in their knowledge and understanding of the traditional linguistics sub-disciplines of Sociolinguistics, Psycholinguistics and Discourse Analysis, this course includes a forward-thinking Digital Linguistics strand to provide our students with a more versatile and balanced trans-disciplinary experience appropriate to engage with the new media age.The course looks at language, and specifically English, from multiple perspectives including its structure, nature, how it reflects – and is reflected by – society, and how it is processed in the brain.**Year One**The first year aims to give you the tools necessary for the understanding and study of language and linguistics. You are introduced to key developments in the field of linguistics, as well as to the history and nature of the English language. This course aims to sharpen your understanding of spoken, written and digital discourse.In addition, in keeping with our commitment to promote digital fluency as well as develop much sought-after employment and research skills, each student will have the opportunity to create their own website which they will add to and curate over the course of their time with us, and take with them when they leave. The aim is to produce a professional-looking outward-facing website showcasing student’s talents and work which can be shared with potential employers.**Year Two**In year two, you will study some topics associated with the key branches of applied linguistics: socio-linguistics, psycholinguistics and discourse analysis. In other words, you will have the opportunity to learn how social factors such as age, gender or region affect language use; how children develop language or adults go on to learn a second language; and how social media and multimodality have affected not only our use of language but also our perception of meaning.In addition, you will have the opportunity to delve more deeply into the possibilities afforded by using computer software to study language patterns. An international study trip module can be taken as an option (subject to additional fees, application and availability).**Optional Placement Year**After your second year, you have an opportunity to take a sandwich year, studying abroad or on professional placement.For example, in the UK, past students have enjoyed working as a recruitment intern at Hays Recruitment, a marketing assistant at Knor Bremse, an editorial assistant at Songlines Magazine, an academic coach at St Michaels High School, as well as a marketing and communications assistant at Visit Britain. Abroad, past students have studied or worked in places as diverse as Sweden, China or Spain.**Final Year**The final year builds on concepts studied in the first two years and allows you delve into your own areas of interest. Your studies can culminate in a dissertation through which you pursue and research an idea or phenomenon that fires up your own interests. If you prefer not to do a dissertation, there are a range of other options to choose from.