COURSE CURRICULUM

The English and Philosophy BA at Sheffield combines the study of literature or linguistics with philosophy, offering students a rich interdisciplinary education. In the first year, students choose between an English Literature or Linguistics pathway, engaging with core modules such as Renaissance to Revolution, Writing Revolutions, Sounds and Structures of English, and Linguistic Theory, alongside philosophy modules including Writing Philosophy and Reason and Argument. Optional modules allow students to explore topics such as contemporary literature, creative writing, history of English, and the philosophy of mind, ethics, and society. This flexible first year also permits students to take modules outside of their main subjects to broaden their academic experience. In the second year, students deepen their knowledge in both disciplines, with core modules covering Ethics: From Theory to Practice, Philosophy of the Arts, Romanticism to Modernism, Phonetics, and Language Acquisition. Optional modules may include Shakespeare, Philosophy of AI and Robotics, and Historical Linguistics. In the third year, students consolidate their expertise, completing a research project and developing skills in communicating philosophy, while optional modules allow further specialisation in areas such as Renaissance literature, modern crisis, psychology of language, and pain, pleasure, and emotions. The degree fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and independent research, preparing graduates for careers in education, writing, cultural sectors, or further study.