Course Overview
On the surface, the study of English provides an exploration of literary expression in a variety of historical, cultural and critical contexts. Dig deeper, however, and you’ll find this course offers so much more. You’ll examine the expression of human thought and its relevance to society through the study of a wide range of texts, from novels and poems to plays and films. You’ll develop skills in clear and critical thinking, as well as the ability to evaluate and apply theories and methodologies – vital skills that can open new career direction or lead to further study options.
Entry requirements
To enter the degree programme directly, you should have 200-240 UCAS points from two subjects at GCE / VCE A’ Level, one of which should be a Grade B in English, or a related discipline, or an equivalent qualification.
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS score of 7.
Students over 21 years of age (‘mature students’) may be admitted with fewer formal qualifications, particularly if they have completed an appropriate Access or Foundation course.
In addition, students without the traditional entry qualifications who choose to study via distance learning with ICS, may be offered an introductory course that consists of modules equating to 30 credits of the degree and a specially prepared module providing the skills required to study in Higher Education. Students seeking entry through this route will be registered at the University as Associate Students. On successful completion of these modules, students will have the opportunity to progress on to the full degree, at which stage they will be registered as full degree students.
Support and Benefits
- Tailor made ‘Higher Education Study Skills’ module for all students
- Step-by-step modules to guide your learning
- All course materials designed by experts in English
- Develops the interpersonal and self-management skills valued by employers
- Successful completion of this course demonstrates your motivation and commitment to learning
- Gain additional transferable skills in data collection, analysis, IT, communication and report writing
- Full support from dedicated ICS tutors and mentors.
- Support with Personal Development Planning, which is embedded in modules throughout the programme.
Higher Education Study Skills Module
Studying for a degree by distance learning will be a new experience for the majority of students. Furthermore, how well you cope with this study and how you perform will be largely dependent on how well prepared you are. With this in mind ICS have developed a tailor made ‘Higher Education Study Skills’ module to provide you with the best possible start. All students will be required to study this alongside the first (double) module they undertake. Some students, perhaps those who have recently studied, may find this module serves, in the main, to refresh areas they have previously covered, whilst others may find all the content new and challenging. However, we are confident all students will benefit for studying this module and will enjoy better success in their studies as a result.
What is Personal Development Planning?
Personal Development Planning (PDP) is a new initiative, which aims to ensure that our undergraduate students are given the opportunity to engage in planning to support effective personal, educational and career progression.
Why is PDP Important?
Studies indicate that too many undergraduate students currently complete their university studies not really knowing what they want to do next, or even what they have really gained from their degree to ‘transfer’ into the job-market. Many students also fail to take advantage of the full range of opportunities, initiatives and support on offer through their studies, to help them maximise their learning – and earning – potential.
What will I have to do?
As part of your academic programme you will be encouraged to engage in personal development planning to help you get the most out of your course, and also to plan ahead for what you want to do after your degree. Your mentor and the academic team will explain the precise form that PDP will take for your particular programme, but it is likely to include aspects such as: creating and updating a personal development plan; monitoring your progress against a range of subjects and generic/transferable skills; and developing/updating a CV.
Engagement in this process should help you feel more in control of your development over the course of your study programme, and also help you to become more focused about your future plans.
Distance Learning
You will have access to specially written study guides for each module and eCampus, a virtual learning environment (VLE) that will support you throughout your studies. This will include access to your course materials, discussion forums, study timetables and a resource section. You will also be able to contact your tutors through eCampus, and upload assessments, send tutor queries, request a tutor phone call and see your results.
Career opportunities
Many of our graduates of this degree choose to teach, but you’ll find this is just one of the variety of career paths open to you as an English graduate. Work in the electronic and print media, for instance, is an option, as is arts administration. You may find work in the visual arts, fundraising, personnel, publishing, librarianship, marketing, publicity, social work, tourism or IT industries. Alternatively, further study may be your aim, with an MA in English, Creative Writing, Film Studies or Publishing open to you as a graduate.
Assessment
Assessment will involve a mix of exams and coursework, which includes essays, presentations and projects.