At the C-level, students develop expertise in the field of English studies via courses focusing on linguistic and literary theory. In Theoretical Approaches to Linguistics, students are introduced to both seminal and contemporary linguistic theories in such disciplines as sociolinguistics, pragmatics, or corpus linguistics, with the aim of deepening their understanding of and skills in linguistic investigation. In Theoretical Approaches to Literature, students deepen their understanding of modern literary analysis by studying important conceptual apparatuses and theories, such as structuralism, poststructuralism, critical and cultural theory, and gender studies. The C-level culminates in an Independent Project (15 credits) in the form of a research essay written under the guidance of a supervisor which reflects a specialisation in English-language linguistics, literature, or cultural studies.

Course design

The essay module is worth 15 credits. Your essay will focus on a topic of your choosing in English-language linguistics, literature or culture. Through focused seminars and with individual supervision, you will develop your knowledge of how to research and write an academic essay, exercising the ability to formulate a problem, build an argument and relate this problem to other research in the area. Your essay will be peer reviewed at a final seminar, and you will also review another student’s essay.