English Language and Literature Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)
Course Overview - English Language and Literature Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)
Summary
Language and literature shape how we understand the world and express who we are. This course brings them together.
On this degree, you will gain in-depth knowledge of the English language and its cultural impact. You will discover how English emerged, how it continues to change, and how it varies across its millions of speakers. You will also explore writing in varieties of English from the early medieval period to the present day, as well as from around the world.
By combining linguistic and literary approaches, you will gain a ...
Summary
Language and literature shape how we understand the world and express who we are. This course brings them together.
On this degree, you will gain in-depth knowledge of the English language and its cultural impact. You will discover how English emerged, how it continues to change, and how it varies across its millions of speakers. You will also explore writing in varieties of English from the early medieval period to the present day, as well as from around the world.
By combining linguistic and literary approaches, you will gain a deeper understanding of both how language works and how it creates meaning. You will analyse texts, explore ideas and develop your own perspective on the role of language in shaping culture. You will also acquire a blend of technical, analytical and critical research skills.
You will gain academic expertise and develop lifelong skills applicable to a variety of settings and career destinations. A degree in Languages and Literature equips graduates with a deep understanding of the intricacies of spoken and written language, communication, and cultural contexts. This expertise is invaluable in our increasingly globalised world, where clear cross-cultural communication is paramount.
Key features of the course
\- Join a department that is 7th for Linguistics, Times UK University Rankings 2026.
\- Our department was ranked 1st for graduate prospects in Linguistics, Times UK University Rankings 2026.
\- 96% of students were highly rate our teaching in English Language, National Student Survey 2025
\- Combine both literary and linguistic approaches to the subject on this Joint Honours course.
\- Opportunity to study a foreign language, including as a complete beginner.
\- Options to take related modules in other disciplines such as Philosophy and Film, allowing you to tailor your module choices to your own interests and career choices.
\- Access to our Digital Humanities Hub and support from our team of expert academics and technicians.
Student support
You will be taught by experts who take the time to know you as an individual. Through small group seminars and support from your personal tutor, you will build confidence in your ideas and your voice.
You will also have access to wellbeing services, peer mentoring and dedicated careers support, all within a welcoming and supportive community.
Further information
BA English Language and Literature is a three year full time course based at Avenue Campus. You can choose to extend your degree with a year abroad or a placement year.
Find out more on our course page.
Course Information
1 option available
Some courses vary and have tailored teaching options, select a course option below.
Course Details
Information
Study Mode
Full-time
Duration
3 Years
Start Date
2027-09-20
Campus
Main Site - Highfield Campus
Application Details
Provider Details
Codes/info
Course Code
A56-E81
Institution Code
S27
Points of Entry
Year 1
Entry Requirements
A level
Typical Offer: ABB If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: BBB and grade A in the EPQ. We are committed to ensuring that all students with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a student’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Students who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
UCAS Tariff
Not accepted
Scottish Higher
We normally consider applicants who offer at least 1 Advanced Higher. Applicants presenting with only Highers will be considered on a case by case basis. Where Highers are taken over two years it might be expected that higher grades are achieved, particularly in any specific subjects required. For example, S5 – S6 (2 years): AABBB (A in specific subject) or S6 (1 year): ABBBB (A in specific subject). Unless a more advanced level (Higher or Advanced Higher) is specified in the stated entry requirements, all applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at Standard Grade, Grade 3 or National 5, Grade C, the equivalent of GCSE Grade C/ Grade 4" We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
GCSE/National 4/National 5
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Scottish Advanced Higher
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education. Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact Admissions for more information.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC National Diploma plus grade B at A level. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
Pass, with 32 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme. International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP): Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
WJEC Level 3 Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales
ABB from 3 A levels or AB from two A levels and B from the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC National Extended Diploma plus grade B at A level. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017)
H2 H3 H3 H3 H3 H3 We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (first teaching from September 2016)
Distinction in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus AB from A level subjects. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Cambridge International Pre-U Certificate - Principal
D3 M2 M2 in three principal subjects. We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
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Fees and funding
| Region | Costs | Academic Year | Year | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EU, International | £0 | 2026/27 | Year 1 | |
| Channel Islands, England, Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Republic of Ireland | £10,050 | 2026/27 | Year 1 |
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