English Language and History (including Year Abroad)

The BA in English Language and History (including Year Abroad) at the University of Essex is an innovative and comprehensive programme designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the development and structure of the English language alongside a broad exploration of historical periods, events, and contexts. This interdisciplinary course combines rigorous linguistic analysis with historical inquiry, enabling students to appreciate how language and history influence and inform each other across different eras.

Throughout the programme, students will engage with key concepts and theories in linguistics, such as phonetics, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, alongside studies of English language change, dialects, and sociolinguistics. Simultaneously, they will explore major historical topics, including medieval, early modern, and modern history, with particular emphasis on Britain and the wider Anglophone world. The curriculum is designed to develop critical analytical skills, encouraging students to examine primary sources, historical narratives, and linguistic data to understand the social, political, and cultural forces shaping language and historical development.

One of the unique features of this course is the Year Abroad component, which offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in a different country, improving language proficiency and gaining invaluable international experience. Students typically spend their year abroad studying at partner universities in countries such as France, Spain, or other Francophone or Anglophone nations, depending on the destination. This experience enhances linguistic capabilities, broadens cultural awareness, and provides insights into global perspectives on language and history.

The programme's structure combines lectures, seminars, independent research, and practical language work, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment. Throughout their studies, students will develop a range of transferable skills, including critical thinking, research expertise, effective communication, and intercultural competence. Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped for careers in areas such as education, publishing, media, public relations, diplomatic service, or further postgraduate research.

The University of Essex's distinguished faculty incorporates expertise from linguistics and history disciplines, ensuring students benefit from high-quality teaching and research-led learning. With modern facilities, an inclusive campus community, and a supportive academic environment, students are encouraged to pursue their academic interests and prepare for a variety of professional pathways. No matter whether your interest lies more in the evolution of the English language or in understanding historical processes, this programme offers an enriching academic experience that bridges language and history, preparing graduates for the diverse demands of the modern workforce.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our courses are flexibility and choice. In your first year, you usually take four or five modules that include pre-requisite(s) for your course but, in many cases, mean you can try subjects you have not come across before. If you are taking a humanities or social science, then you have the greatest choice, as most of our first-year modules do not assume any specialist knowledge.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BA, then you are qualified to enter the second year of that course and a range of other courses: for example, if you take economics, politics, philosophy and sociology, then you have a choice of at least nine possible single or joint honours courses at the end of your first year. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available. We offer a range of optional modules in your second- and final-years and most courses allow you to undertake a final-year project, an individual piece of research on a topic that interests you.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

Foundations of Linguistics;
Foundations of Sociolinguistics;
The Making of the Modern World 1789-1989 or Society, Culture and Politics in Europe 1500-1750; and
one history option or The Enlightenment

Year 2

One English language option;
one linguistics option;
Making History: Concepts, Themes and Sources (half module);
one history half-option; and
one history option

Year 3

Year abroad

Year 4

One English language option;
one linguistics option; and
two history options

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A-levels: ABB-BBB
• GCSE English: C
• IB: 32-30 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
• Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above) or achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at merit (or above).

English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

The BA (Hons) English Language and History with Year Abroad at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive and dynamic exploration of two critical disciplines that shape understanding of human society and communication. This integrated programme is designed to enhance students’ analytical, research, and linguistic skills, alongside a deep historical knowledge of significant periods and developments. The inclusion of a Year Abroad provides an invaluable opportunity for immersive learning, cultural exchange, and gaining practical language skills which are highly valued in the global job market.

Throughout the course, students will examine the evolution of the English language, from its Old English roots to contemporary dialects and uses, emphasizing phonetics, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. This focus enables students to understand how language functions in society, how it varies across regions and social groups, and how it influences and reflects cultural identities. The History component covers a broad range of topics, including European, British, and world history, with modules on political movements, social change, revolutions, and historical theories. This diverse curriculum fosters critical thinking and contextual analysis, enabling students to connect historical events and their impacts across different eras.

The Year Abroad typically involves studying at a partner university in a country where the target language is spoken. This experience aims to improve language proficiency, intercultural competence, and adaptability. Students may undertake language courses, participate in cultural activities, and undertake research projects or internships depending on their host institution’s offerings. Returning students benefit from a broader global perspective and enhanced communication skills, which are beneficial for careers in international relations, education, translation, media, or further academic research.

The programme emphasizes employability by combining academic rigor with practical skills. It offers opportunities for independent research, collaboration, and presentation, preparing graduates for diverse career paths. Students gain proficiency in critical reading, writing, and verbal communication, alongside a nuanced understanding of historical processes and contexts. The course is supported by dedicated academic staff with expertise in linguistics, history, and intercultural studies, ensuring a rich and engaging learning environment. Overall, the BA English Language and History with Year Abroad at Essex is an excellent choice for students seeking a comprehensive, international, and interdisciplinary degree that combines research, language training, and cultural exchange.