Languages courses

About BA English Language And Classical Literature & Civilisation in University of Birmingham

This innovative undergraduate degree course is for those fascinated by ancient cultures, as well as the written and spoken word.

Finding out how a language works and how societies communicate, combines a unique intellectual challenge with significant practical potential. You will also have the chance to use new resources, such as computer-held databases of linguistic data and you will be encouraged to embrace theoretical and technological advances in the study of language. 

In your Classical studies, explore the classical civilisations of Greece and Rome as well as the cultures of Ancient Egypt, Western Asia and the Byzantine Empire.  Work with the plays, poems and speeches that have come down to us from antiquity, and study the monument, religion and mythology that make up classical civilisation.

You will acquire practical skills during your degree that you will find just as useful in your future career including oral presentation, professional documentation, group work and the uses of information technology. These skills last a lifetime and qualify you for many possible careers.

Our graduates have started careers with employers including the BBC, Headline Publishing Group, Mirror Group Newspapers, The National Trust and Oxford University Press, as well as media companies, educational institutions, local councils, charities, museums, and cultural and heritage organisations. Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study to specialise in an academic area, or prepare for careers such as law and teaching.

Entry requirements

• In order to undertake a programme of study here at the University, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English. You can demonstrate your level of English with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications. English Language test certificates should be no more than two years old on the start date of your chosen programme. The sections below will tell you what grades you need in these qualifications for the subject area you want to study.

  Some degree programmes have slightly higher requirements than those stated here. When this is so, we will ensure that you are informed using the contact details you have provided on your application. If you have been instructed and assessed in English language at a recognised institution, you may be exempt from these requirements.

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