This module takes you on a journey through the history and development of literature and language, exploring crucial turning points that have shaped and reflected its development. Blending English language, literature, and creative writing, the module examines key milestones in the history of English, from Old English poetry to contemporary writing, highlighting how language, culture, and society influence one another, and how the language and texts of the present day have emerged.

You will analyse the grammar, vocabulary, and stylistic changes in English over time, applying knowledge and skills developed on the "Studying English" module at level 4 to investigate texts ranging from medieval manuscripts and Shakespearean drama to Victorian novels and modern digital storytelling. Sessions will encourage students to experiment with historical and present-day linguistic features and literary styles, analysing and/or crafting pieces that echo or challenge traditions from different eras.

The module fosters a nuanced understanding of how English has adapted to historical, social, and cultural contexts. It also develops skills in linguistic analysis, close reading, and creative expression. By engaging with English across centuries, you will gain a deeper appreciation of the language’s richness and versatility while cultivating critical and creative abilities relevant to academic and professional pathways. This will prepare you for the level 6 module "Beyond the Page", in which you will investigate how this kind of knowledge is relevant to life beyond university.

A number of methodological approaches to the study of English will also be introduced in this module, helping to develop your knowledge of a range of ways in which language and texts can be analysed and understood. Students will explore how data from different periods can be analysed through established approaches, as well as approaches which are new and emerging, possibly including the application of AI tools. Through applying and reflecting on the application of these methods, you will be provided with a valuable skillset that is likely to appeal to a range of future employers.

The module provides students with an opportunity to undertake a 140-hour work placement*. This placement is complemented by a number of school-delivered sessions designed to develop their employability, professional practice, and students' understanding of their career options. Students learn to reflect on the nature of creativity within their studies, and gain awareness of how this is valued and relevant in modern workplaces. 

*in some cases, evidence of considerable relevant graduate-level work experience may be accepted as an alternative to completion of the stipulated placement.

This module enables you to understand the significance of historical context and place in literature from the Renaissance through to the contemporary period. You will examine how different places (ranging from rooms to whole worlds) are represented across a range of genres, including poetry, novels, plays and creative non-fiction. You will identify and evaluate the spatial and historical contexts of a variety of works. The module focuses on a range of approaches, such as Romantic conceptualizations of landscape, evolving representations of the country and the city, perspectives on climate and ecology, colonialism and postcolonialism, and psychogeography. You will explore key historical shifts in the experience and understanding of time and place and how these factors have contributed more broadly to various cultures and communities.

Embedding the Chester ‘Citizen Student’ principle at the heart of teaching, this module examines representations of community, activism, and protest in English literature.

Set texts are likely to include not only fiction, drama, and poetry, but also songs, films, political tracts, biographies, and material culture, enabling students to discuss literature in relation to other forms of storytelling in communicating traditions of citizenship, activism, human rights, and protest.

This module is informed by principles of ‘inclusive curriculum’, and materials centring marginalised experiences / voices. Experiences discussed in these texts may include disability, gender, sexuality, race and ethnicity, class, and the ways in which marginalised people have found community and made their voices heard.

Assessments offer opportunities to enhance critical reflection and research skills with creativity across different media.

The Level 5, 40-credit modules require a basic foundation of knowledge of your chosen language e.g. GCSE or equivalent, a Level 4 module in the same language or equivalent previous learning. This module includes an optional placement abroad, such as an intensive course at a partner university. You can choose:

• Advanced Language Development and Global Sustainability (choice of German, French or Spanish)
• Upper Intermediate Language Development and Global Employability (choice of Chinese, French or Spanish)
• Post Beginner Language Development and Global Cultures (choice of German, Italian or Spanish)

This module will provide you with the practical and theoretical underpinning of professional practice in your specific subject, enabling you to identify and develop key employability attributes and skills in preparation for your future career.  

You will spend several weeks working collaboratively with other students across the School for the Creative Industries on one major project or several smaller projects in a professional ‘simulated real world’ working environment.  Projects will be contemporary, topical, externally focused and often involve partnership with outside agencies. The module will provide you with opportunities for immersive learning and the chance to apply your knowledge in real-world contexts.