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    English and Linguistics together unlock the power of expression through the art of storytelling and the mechanics of language.

    Why study English and Linguistics?

    Language shapes how we think, communicate, and imagine. At Otago, studying English and Linguistics lets you explore both the artistry and the science of language. You’ll dive into literature that has changed the world, learn how languages evolve, and uncover how meaning is made.

    In English, you can study everything from poetry and novels to film and creative writing. In Linguistics, you’ll explore how language is structured, how it’s learned, and how it reflects who we are.

    You’ll develop skills that employers everywhere value: clear communication, deep analysis, creative thinking, and cultural insight. Whether you dream of writing, teaching, researching, or simply understanding people better, English and Linguistics will help you get there – and you’ll never look at language the same way again.

    Career opportunities

    An English and Linguistics degree gives you flexible, in-demand skills that lead to a wide range of careers. Graduates often work in roles that blend creativity, analysis, and communication, such as:

    • Publishing, editing, and content creation
    • Communications, media, and public relations
    • Teaching or language education
    • Policy, research, and cultural consultancy
    • Technology fields such as speech processing or data analysis

    Write your story

    Study English at Otago and develop your powers of analysis, creativity and imagination.

    How you will learn

    In the English and Linguistics programme at Otago you will engage with textual analysis, language structure, meaning and use. You may explore topics from literary studies to sociolinguistics and language change. Through both coursework and supervised research you’ll build analytical rigour, cultural insight and the capacity to engage thoughtfully with language in society.

    Recommended high school subjects for undergraduate study

    If you enjoy reading, writing, and exploring how people communicate, you’ll feel right at home. Curiosity, creativity, and a love of language are the best preparation for success in this subject.

    Choose a study option

    Whether you're embarking on your academic journey with our comprehensive undergraduate programmes or aiming to reach new heights through our advanced postgraduate offerings, Otago is here to support your aspirations.

    Undergraduate qualifications

    For new and current students studying towards a Bachelor's or other first degree. Explore undergraduate qualifications at Otago, designed to build a strong foundation in your chosen field, preparing you for a successful career or further study.

    Ready to apply?

    Take the first step towards your future in this subject.

    Further study opportunities

    Whether you are looking to bridge your undergraduate studies to advanced knowledge or aiming to specialise in a specific field, Otago offers a range of graduate and postgraduate options to suit your aspirations.

    Explore language, literature, and the power of expression

    English and Linguistics bring together creativity, analysis, and discovery. You’ll learn from passionate teachers who are also researchers, writers, and linguists – people who study how language shapes culture, thought, and identity. Our courses invite you to explore literature and communication from fresh perspectives, blending the art of expression with the science of language.

    You can also design your degree to match your interests by combining English or Linguistics with other subjects such as Media Studies, Psychology, History, or Education. This flexibility helps you build a degree that’s as unique as your goals – one that deepens your understanding of people and the world while giving you skills that work anywhere.

    Programme details

    Compare programmes for this subject.

    LevelPapersPoints
    100-level LING 111 A World of Languages 18
    One 100-level ENGL paper (excluding ENGL 126 English for University Purposes) 18
    200-level LING 217 What's Behind Language: Sound and Structure 18
    Two 200-level ENGL papers 36
    One further 200-level LING paper (excluding LING 231 TESOL: Guide to Language Teaching) 18
    DHUM 201 Digital Humanities: Method and Critique may be substituted for one 200-level paper  
    300-level Two 300-level ENGL papers 36
    Two 300-level LING papers 36
    Plus 180 further points; must include 36 points at 200-level or above. 180
    Up to 90 points may be taken from outside Arts  
    Total 360

    More information

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    Regulations on this page are taken from the 2026 Calendar and supplementary material.

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