Subject

English language

Three students sat in the squares chatting expressively

Discover English language undergraduate degrees

You're intrigued by the role of language in society. You appreciate the uniqueness of language, and how it underpins all that we do. You want to learn how language is acquired and understand its role in each and every one of our daily lives. When studying English Language you'll learn how language is learnt and used in varying contexts.

You can choose form a variety of subjects to study in combination with English language such as linguistics, English literature and teaching English as a foreign language. From the media to the marketplace, courtrooms and conversation – everything starts with language. 

Why study English Language? 

You'll enhance your communication skills, both written and oral, which are invaluable in professional settings and daily interactions. Additionally, delving into English language fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to interpret and evaluate complex texts. Moreover, you'll gain a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and historical contexts through literary exploration, enhancing your empathy and global awareness. Furthermore, an English degree opens doors to various career paths, including education, publishing, media, and international business, due to the universal importance of English proficiency. Lastly, studying English language at university nurtures creativity, fosters lifelong learning habits, and equips you with adaptable skills essential for success in today's dynamic world.

Course

BA (Hons) English Language and Literature

Unite a passion for literature with a fascination for language and answer questions such as; how has social and geographical mobility created new accents?

Course

BA (Hons) English Language and Linguistics

Top 25 in the UK for linguistics in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024

Course

BA (Hons) English Language and Linguistics (Including Foundation Year)

Top 25 in the UK for linguistics in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024

Course

BA (Hons) Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

Are you interested in starting a career in TEFL and in English Language Teaching in the UK as well as in international contexts? Welcome home.

Why choose Essex?
  • You're taught by lecturers who are internationally recognised for their language research
  • Join our diverse community of students from all corners of the globe
  • We give you the option to work abroad, or study overseas at a partner university of your choice
A student giving another student a piggy back on campus. Picture edited with a red and purple gradient colour tone.
Clearing 2026

Get ahead of results day. Explore your Clearing options now and be ready to secure your place with us when the time comes.

Flags hanging in the street from different nationalities, representing all the languages you can learn at the University of Essex.
Learn more about English language study at Essex

Discover what it's like to study English language in the Department of Language and Linguistics. Meet the experts and discover more about life as an undergraduate in this welcoming Department.

Visit the Department of Language and Linguistics

Explore postgraduate English language degrees

In an era of global communication, more people speak English than ever before. English is the language of the internet, science and medicine, international business and politics. When you study language, you open the door to a whole new world. Our English language courses provide you with a deep understanding of the structure and uses of this century's global language. Ambitious students who are curious about language and its relationship to the world find their home at Essex.

Why choose Essex?
  • We are 1st in UK for research impact in modern languages and linguistics (Grade Point Average, Research Excellence Framework 2021)
  • Gain real-world, practical experience in the analysis and description of English
  • Pursue your academic interests – specialise in a range of areas in the study of English language or teaching
Course

MA English Language and Linguistics

Focus on the linguistics of the English language, conducting in-depth study of its grammar and dialectal and social variations amongst wider linguistic topics.

Course

MA Teaching English and Additional Languages

The MA Teaching English and Additional Languages course helps language teachers develop advanced expertise in multilingual language education.

Course

MA Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Gain employment anywhere in the world with our MA Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages degree

Course

MA Intercultural Communication and Translation

MA Intercultural Communication and Translation prepares you to work in global environments where communication is essential.

University of Essex Graduate Alumni
Learn more about postgraduate fees, funding and scholarships

Find a scholarship, discover postgraduate funding opportunities and learn more about the fee structure for postgraduate students at Essex.

Learn more about postgraduate fees and funding
A student walking on campus at the University of Essex.
Want to study here?

Sign up for updates about our courses, accommodation, funding and student life.

login