English Language (A-level)
Studying English Language at A-level is very different from studying the subject at GCSE. It involves the linguistic analysis of a range of different types of spoken and written texts.
Course Summary

Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
English Language A-level is very different from what you may be used to in your GCSE studies. It involves the linguistic analysis of a range of different types of spoken and written texts. This A-level complements many other subjects and can help in a range of careers such as teaching and journalism.
Entry Requirements
You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language at grade 5 and Maths at grade 4.
A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.
It is assumed that students will enrol on a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and make positive progress in their first year of study.
What will you learn?
First year:
- Close linguistic analysis of a wide range of authentic texts
- Social varieties of English
Second year:
- Original writing for a ‘real world’ purpose (coursework)
- Research into a language area of individual interest (coursework)
- Analysis of how children acquire language
- How English changes over time
How will you learn?
This course will be delivered on-site at the Joseph Wright Centre.
What will you need to bring with you?
N/A
How will you be assessed?
The course will be assessed via two 2.5 hour written examinations at the end of the second year. Each paper is worth 40% of the mark (i.e. 80% in total).
A coursework project in the second year – worth 20% of the mark – will involve independent research into a chosen area of language and will include a piece of original writing.
Where next?
This qualification is a useful foundation for a course in higher education or for employment. Career prospects include roles in teaching, advertising, media, recruitment consultancy, publishing, human resources, journalism and secretarial work.
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
This course could lead to one of these careers...
£0
Teaching Professionals
£18085
Higher Education Teaching Professionals
£46939
Further Education Teaching Professionals
£33259
Primary Education Teaching Professionals
£31465
Librarians
£23215
Authors, Writers and Translators
£30805
DCG Success Stories

Tyler Jackson
Former A level student Tyler returns to Joseph Wright as English lecturer
My former A level lecturer, Suzanne Starr, was my PGCE mentor. She and my English lecturer Anna Bowskill were just amazing and it's great to now be working alongside the lecturers who taught me so well at A level. I tell my current intake of A level English students that they are me four years ago. I can relate to them, having been in the same situation so recently.
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Your next opportunity will be during our Clearing Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 27th August at 12pm. Please note that places will be limited and subject to course availability, entry requirements, and interviews. Find out more about Enrolment and Clearing Enrolment: Enrolment and Clearing Information 2025
Course Information Last Updated On: September 19, 2024 12:13 pm