MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) English Language and Literature
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) English Language and Literature at the University of Sussex is a dynamic program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of both the English language and literary traditions. This interdisciplinary course combines rigorous linguistic analysis with the exploration of literature from different periods, genres, and cultural contexts. The program is ideal for those passionate about language, literature, and culture, offering an intellectual environment where students can develop critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue careers in a variety of fields, including publishing, education, media, and communications.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) English Language and Literature is structured to provide a comprehensive exploration of both the technical aspects of language and the cultural richness of literature. In the first year, students build a strong foundation in linguistics, learning about language structure, phonetics, semantics, and syntax, alongside key literary texts. As the program progresses, students can delve deeper into specialized topics in both language and literature, including sociolinguistics, historical linguistics, poetry, drama, and prose. Advanced modules may focus on critical theory, gender studies, postcolonial literature, or modernism. Throughout the course, students will engage in independent research, creative writing, and interdisciplinary projects that encourage them to apply their knowledge of language and literature in practical settings.
Research Focus: The BA (Hons) English Language and Literature program at Sussex is grounded in cutting-edge research that spans both the linguistic and literary disciplines. The university's English department is known for its strengths in areas such as applied linguistics, literary theory, stylistics, and comparative literature. Faculty members actively engage in research that examines how language interacts with culture, identity, power, and society. Research strengths include sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, discourse analysis, and modern literature, with a particular focus on British, American, and postcolonial texts. This research-driven environment provides students with access to the latest developments in both language and literature, fostering an intellectually stimulating atmosphere that enhances their academic experience.
Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex emphasizes the importance of industry engagement in preparing students for the professional world. The BA (Hons) English Language and Literature program offers students opportunities for internships, placements, and collaborative projects with various organizations, including publishing houses, media outlets, cultural institutions, and educational settings. Sussex also has strong links with the creative industries, offering students networking opportunities with professionals and alumni. These connections provide students with practical experience and insights into careers in publishing, journalism, media, public relations, education, and content creation. The program also features career-focused modules that develop transferable skills such as writing, communication, and project management, all of which are highly valued in the job market.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) English Language and Literature program at Sussex offers a truly global perspective, as students explore the ways in which language and literature shape and reflect diverse cultural contexts. The curriculum includes the study of literature from different geographical regions, including the UK, the US, Africa, and South Asia, with an emphasis on postcolonial and world literature. Students are encouraged to consider global issues such as identity, migration, and power dynamics through the lens of both language and literature. Additionally, the university’s diverse student body and international faculty provide a rich, multicultural environment that fosters cross-cultural understanding. Sussex’s focus on global perspectives ensures that graduates are prepared to work in international and culturally diverse settings, making them adaptable to a wide range of global career opportunities.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19050
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) English Language and Literature program at the University of Sussex are well-equipped for a diverse range of career paths in both creative and professional fields. The combination of linguistic analysis, critical reading, and in-depth understanding of cultural contexts enables graduates to pursue careers that require strong communication, research, and analytical skills.
Publishing and Editorial Roles: One of the most common career paths for graduates is in publishing and editing. The BA (Hons) English Language and Literature program provides graduates with the necessary skills for roles such as editors, copywriters, proofreaders, and literary agents. Students gain a strong foundation in language structure, literary analysis, and creative writing, which are essential for the publishing industry. Graduates can work in both print and digital publishing, as well as academic publishing, editing textbooks, journals, and research papers.
Education and Teaching: Many graduates choose to pursue a career in education, where they can use their expertise in language and literature to teach at various educational levels. The program offers a strong grounding in both English language and literature, preparing graduates to teach English in schools, colleges, or universities. With additional qualifications, such as a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), graduates can become English teachers at secondary schools. Alternatively, those interested in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) can use the program as a stepping stone toward teaching English internationally.
Journalism and Media: Graduates with a flair for writing and communication often find rewarding careers in journalism, media, and content creation. The BA (Hons) English Language and Literature program provides essential writing, research, and critical thinking skills, all of which are highly valued in the media industry. Graduates can work as journalists, content writers, reporters, or editors for newspapers, magazines, online publications, and television networks. The program also equips students with an understanding of literary theory, which is beneficial for analyzing and creating media content, making them ideal candidates for roles in broadcasting or digital media.
Public Relations and Communications: The communication and writing skills acquired through the program are highly sought after in public relations (PR) and communications roles. Graduates can work as PR officers, media relations specialists, or communication managers in a variety of sectors, including business, government, and non-profit organizations. The ability to create compelling narratives, craft press releases, and manage brand communications makes graduates well-suited to roles in both corporate and public sector PR. Their understanding of language and its cultural implications is invaluable for crafting effective communication strategies in a globalized world.
Advertising and Marketing: With a focus on language and its power to influence, graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in advertising and marketing. Their understanding of persuasive language, narrative techniques, and audience engagement makes them ideal candidates for roles in advertising agencies, marketing firms, and social media management. Graduates can work as copywriters, content strategists, social media managers, or brand managers, helping companies connect with their target audience through impactful messaging and campaigns.
Translation and Interpretation: For graduates who are multilingual, the BA (Hons) English Language and Literature program provides an excellent foundation for careers in translation and interpretation. Graduates can work as freelance translators, language specialists, or interpreters in industries such as legal, medical, technical, and literary translation. Their deep understanding of language structure, meaning, and context, combined with their cultural awareness, makes them highly valuable in facilitating cross-cultural communication.
Research and Academia: For those interested in further study and research, the BA (Hons) English Language and Literature program provides an excellent foundation for postgraduate study in fields such as linguistics, literary criticism, and cultural studies. Graduates may pursue master's degrees or PhDs, eventually entering academia as researchers or university lecturers. They can contribute to academic research on topics such as sociolinguistics, literary history, modernist literature, and language acquisition.
Creative Industries and Arts Management: Graduates with an interest in the arts and culture may find opportunities in arts management, event organization, and creative industries. The program’s emphasis on literature, culture, and communication prepares graduates to manage cultural projects, organize literary festivals, or work in galleries, museums, and theatres. Roles in arts administration, curating, and event planning are ideal for graduates passionate about literature and the arts.
Law and Legal Professions: A background in English language and literature provides a solid foundation for a career in law. The ability to analyze complex texts, construct logical arguments, and communicate persuasively are essential skills for legal professionals. Graduates can pursue a career as solicitors, paralegals, or legal advisors, often going on to study law at the postgraduate level (such as the Graduate Diploma in Law). The program’s focus on critical thinking and language use is particularly beneficial for those who wish to work in legal research or advocacy.
Freelance Writing and Consultancy: For graduates who prefer a more flexible work schedule, freelance writing and consultancy offer opportunities to work on a variety of projects. Graduates can work as freelance writers, offering services in areas such as content writing, copywriting, and blogging. They may also provide language consulting services for businesses, helping them refine their communication strategies, improve website content, or assist with cross-cultural communication. Freelance work offers the flexibility to engage in a variety of projects, from writing books and articles to consulting for businesses and organizations.
International Organizations and NGOs: Graduates of the BA (Hons) English Language and Literature program are also well-suited for roles in international organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Their strong communication skills and global awareness, developed through the study of literature from diverse cultural perspectives, prepare them for roles in international development, diplomacy, and humanitarian work. Graduates may work as communication officers, project coordinators, or policy advisors, helping to bridge cultural gaps and communicate effectively across borders.
