English Language and Linguistics

BA (Hons) English Language and Linguistics at Manchester Met is the perfect choice if you’re fascinated by the way in which we communicate and how it can influence people. S, studying linguistics will help you unravel how language is inextricably linked to who we are.

Linguistics is devoted to the scientific study of natural language and concerned with how languages evolve, are structured and what they have in common. It also examines how languages are acquired and used.

Our programme enables you to develop a sound knowledge of both theoretical and applied perspectives and places emphasis on English, with examples from other languages where appropriate. The core elements of the course teach you about sentence structure (syntax), meaning (semantics and pragmatics), and phonetics and phonology. You will also learn about language use and variation in different social contexts, the media, and intercultural settings. Communicating effectively, critical thinking and developing rigorous analytical skills are all honed throughout this degree and will be valuable for when you enter the world of work.

You’ll be taught by experts whose fascinating research is making an impact on real‑world issues from forensic linguistics and accent mapping, to the implications of how language is used in policy documents. This ensures your learning is always relevant and up‑to‑date.

As you progress, you’ll shape your studies through option module choices and, after your second year, you can choose to take a placement or study abroad, gaining valuable experience and expanding your horizons.

With strong local and global links, this degree helps you build the skills, confidence and networks you’ll need for your future.

This course has a foundation year available.

Features and Benefits

• Broaden your horizons - You'll have the opportunity to experience the world by spending your third year studying abroad overseas or on placement.

• Enhance your employability - Internships, volunteering and Rise at Manchester Met allow you to learn career-ready skills beyond the focus of your course.

• Prepare for your career - We coach practical skills for work including communication skills, presentation skills, essay and report writing, summary skills, interview and questionnaire techniques, and digital literacy skills.

• Linguistics expertise - You'll be taught by leading researchers in the field, with real-world linguistic experience, including the identification of notorious criminals in forensic linguistics and research on Greater Manchester’s regional accents.

• Linguistics learning facilities - You'll have access to study spaces to practise and interact with languages students from across the programme.

• Events calendar - You'll have access to the many conferences, readings, research programmes, festivals and competitions run by the School of English.