The Diploma for Graduates (DipGrad) can be used for many purposes, and in some cases, effectively provides an additional major. It requires you to do at least seven papers, of which at least four are at 300-level or above. The programme is designed for graduates and may be completed by full-time candidates in one year or by part-time candidates over more than one year. A DipGrad is a great way to retrain or to update existing qualifications. Many students also find it a convenient way to continue learning and that it is a useful bridge to postgraduate study. Language is power. We use language for the whole range of activities that make us human, from passion to politics; we negotiate through language in every waking moment of our lives. Literature is language at its most effective. English at Otago is designed to fulfil three main aims: opening up the vast and delightful range of literatures written in English; providing a grasp of the concepts and techniques for analysing texts; and improving communication skills of every kind. By taking English you will find your perceptions sharpened, your understanding deepened and your enjoyment enhanced - for life. Above all, you will equip yourself for a career in almost any sector of society. Linguistics comprises different areas of specialisation: phonetics (the study of speech sounds) phonology (the study of sound systems) morphology (the study of the internal structure of words) syntax (the study of how words are combined into sentences) semantics (the study of meaning) pragmatics (the study of meaning in relation to the way language is used) socio-linguistics (the study of language in its social context) historical linguistics (the study of language change) universal typology (the study of language universals and differences) acquisition (the study of how first and second languages are learned) applied linguistics (the application of linguistics to language teaching and other professional activities) Structure of the Programme Every programme of study for the diploma shall consist of papers worth at least 120 points; include at least 72 points for papers at or above 300-level; include such other work as may be prescribed in particular cases. Students who have been granted credit for study elsewhere that has not been counted towards any other qualification may include up to 60 points for such credit in a programme. The credit may be at 100- or 200-level only, except in the case of students participating in the Student Exchange Programme, who may be credited with papers at 300-level or above. Papers Required Approved papers from those prescribed at 300-level for the major subject or endorsement requirements for the subject concerned and/or from those available at a higher level in the subject concerned. Of the 72 points required above 200-level for the programme, a minimum of 54 points shall be from papers for the subject concerned, but papers worth up to 72 points may be required for certain subjects. Other papers at 100- and/or 200-level in the subject concerned may also be required in some cases as a condition of endorsement.