According to the Department of Linguistics and English Language at Lancaster University the English language has over 3 million native speakers and approximately 3 million more who speak English regularly as a second language.Considering its pervasiveness, it is no wonder that the English Language is studied at universities across the world.
What is an English Language Degree?
The study of the English language is far more involved than simply learning the language (for example, an ESL, or English as a Second Language program).An English Language Degree program studies the mechanics of the English language.English Language courses cover the development of the English language, its origins in medieval English, and traces its progress to modern day English speakers.The phonetics, linguistic, rhetoric and discourse courses taken by English Language majors focus on every faucet of language from grammatical structure and word choice to letter sounds and dialects.
English language courses may study language in the context of literature, but these are not literature courses.Often English Language departments may be combined with English Literature departments, and students may take both literature and language courses, but the field of Linguistics is, though related, separate from that of Literature.
Who should pursue an English Language Degree?
Students interested in the history of language and its development should pursue an English Language degree.However, the theoretical basis involved in linguistics and rhetoric can be dense, and students should expect heavy reading loads.English Language degrees can be heavy in terminology and can include psychology terminology as well as philosophical terminology.
Students with a background in literature or history will be well suited to an English Language degree.Also, an English Language degree fits students with strong research skills and students who balance an interest in language with an interest in science.
English Language Degree – Careers Graduates of an English Language program may enter careers in journalism, speech-writing, education, publishing, and research.The writing and research skills learned through an English Language program prepare students for any career with an emphasis on communication and attention to detail.
English Language Degree Colleges
English Language Degree programs are offered at a variety of colleges.Both campus programs and programs at online colleges are available.English Language degrees can be earned online at Ashford University and the University of Maryland University College.
