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Three English students engaged in a classroom setting whilst reading "To Kill a Mockingbird".

English Studies - Certificate of Higher Education

Summary

Our newly developed Certificate in Higher Education and Foundation Degree in English Studies is designed to allow you to explore English Language, Literature and Professional Writing and its application in a world where language is increasingly fluid, changing, and crucial in the workplace. 

Our modules include exciting and contemporary approaches to English suitable for all tastes covering fiction, non-fiction, and creative practice. You will work with industry experts and professional tutors to develop your language skills in a range of applications and environments.

You will study a wide range of international literary works from the 19th Century and post-war period to the present day and will develop a deep understanding of the history of English, how language works within a variety of texts and contexts and how it can be utilised to solve real-world issues in contemporary society. You will have the freedom to explore your own interests while developing your critical thinking and analytical skills. You will also develop advanced skill in professional and technical writing, allowing you to express your opinion and creative ideas for a range of purposes.                                                                                                                                                                                                 
This programme is ideal for students wishing to embark on careers such as teaching in primary, secondary, further and higher education, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), communication support worker, communications officer, librarians, learning resource advisors and library, arts and culture administration assistants, software engineer, journalism, advertising, careers in media including digital/social media, marketing and website design, digital copyrighting, writing/creative writing, writing for television, theatre and stage, publishing, editing, proofreading, writing for business, management and leadership roles, public relations and communications, speech therapy, applied linguistics or research and academic writing, related careers.                                                                                                                                                                                                           
You will be joining a dynamic, accessible, and practical environment that provides cutting edge subject knowledge alongside professional skills for a range of careers.  

  • Course code SM1HE136
  • UCAS code Q303
  • Duration 1 Year
  • Day/s of week Wednesday
  • Time 09:15 - 16:45

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
08 Sep 2025
University Centre
1 Year
  • £24,568 average annual salary in this sector
  • Get into journalism, copywriting, communications and more
  • Attendance from 2 days a week

What Uni Reviews

Wonderful I'm very happy and feel secure, the course content flows well and is well structured. The tutors are excellent and informative, I would recommend this course and this college to anyone. *****
Anonymous
So supportive and tutors ensure you are motivated and supported to complete work set. *****
Stacey Robinson
Brilliant the tutors are great and extremely supportive. Very helpful and nothing is ever too much trouble. I am currently enjoying every aspect of student life. *****
Anonymous

Student case study - Susan

What have been the benefits of studying here?
A supportive environment with interesting, topical content. HELMs (Higher Education Learning Mentors), financial support and the option of emotional support if I ever need it.

What are you hoping to do in the future?
I am hoping to find an outlet for my creative writing using the skills I've learnt in the classroom.

Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

This programme is ideal for students wishing to embark on careers such as teaching in primary, secondary, further and higher education, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), communication support worker, communications officer, librarians, learning resource advisors and library, arts and culture administration assistants, software engineer, journalism, advertising, careers in media including digital/social media, marketing and website design, digital copyrighting, writing/creative writing, writing for television, theatre and stage, publishing, editing, proofreading, writing for business, management and leadership roles, public relations and communications, speech therapy, applied linguistics or research and academic writing related careers.

Key information

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements are as follows:

English GCSE at Grade C/4 or above.

Evidence of the completion of a relevant Level 3 qualification or Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject.

If embarking on a teaching career, Maths GCSE Grade C/4 or above and Science Grade (Primary sector only) C/4 may also be required – if you have not yet achieved these, you can study these alongside your main programme.

Students are eligible to progress from internal programmes such as Access to HE English Language, Literature and Creative Writing, NCFE L3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning, NCFE L2 Award in Supporting Work in Schools and Colleges (with relevant experience), NCFE L3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce and T-Level Education.

Qualification obtained

CertHE English Studies

Terms and conditions

Read our full terms and conditions for more information.

What will I learn?

  • Modules at level 4

    Module title Code Credits Optional
    Professional and Academic Skills in Humanities SM4MD185 20 No
    How Language Works Introducing Linguistics SM4MD186 20 No
    Introduction to English Language and Literature SM4MD187 20 No
    Exploring Genre Plot and Theme in Literature SM4MD188 20 No
    Literacies for Life SM4MD189 20 No
    Phonology Phonics and Phonetics SM4MD190 20 No

Study Support - at a glance

  • Higher Education Learning Mentors (HELMs)
  • One-to-one and group study support sessions
  • Pre-degree preparation workshops
  • IT Support

Programme Specification

Download our Programme Specification for this course.

Tutor Profile - Rachael Leitch

Area of Expertise:
English Language and Applied Linguistics, Contextual and Textual Analysis, Stylistics, Sociolinguistics, Language and Identity, Critical Discourse Analysis.

Enjoys teaching at B&FC because:
I am passionate about our community and providing equal opportunities for all those entering and engaging with education.

How will I be assessed?

How will I be assessed?

Our modules include exciting and contemporary approaches to English suited for all tastes covering fiction, non-fiction and creative practice. You will work with experts and professional tutors to develop your language skills in a range of applications and environments.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment Method Level 4 Level 5 Level 6
Coursework 94% 0% 0%
Exam 0% 0% 0%
Practical 0% 0% 0%