Programme description for Bachelor's Programme in English (2026–2029)

Knowledge

On completion of the programme, the candidate

• has broad knowledge of the structure of English and its various forms of expression

• has broad knowledge of literary and linguistic methods of analysis

• has knowledge of English grammar and phonology

• has knowledge of the literary syllabus and an overview of literary epochs

• has knowledge of American and British culture

• is familiar with research and development in at least one special field in literature and one in linguistics

Skills

On completion of the programme, the candidate

• can apply analytical methods and concepts to British and American literature and culture and English linguistics

• can reflect upon his/her own academic practice and adjust it under supervision

• can reflect on specific topics in British and American literature and culture and English linguistics and adjust this reflection under supervision

• can retrieve and assess relevant information and acquire further knowledge independently

• masters relevant scholarly tools, techniques and forms of communication

General competence

On completion of the programme, the candidate

• has insight into relevant academic and professional ethical issues

• can plan and carry out varied assignments and projects over time, alone or as part of a group, and in accordance with ethical requirements and principles

• can communicate important academic subject matters such as theories, problems and solutions accurately and fluently in spoken and written English

• can apply knowledge and skills in education and dissemination of information

• can use knowledge and skills in further studies in English

• can exchange opinions and experiences with others with a background in the field, thereby contributing to the development of good practice

• is familiar with new thinking and innovation processes The student is also expected to have knowledge, skills and general competence in accordance with the chosen minor subject.

Higher Education Entrance Qualification

Prerequisites for direct admission to the second year: A one-year programme in English must be successfully completed and comprising at least 20 ECTS credits in language courses, 20 ECTS credits in literature, and 20 ECTS credits in either language, literature or culture/social studies.

The programme aims to provide broad knowledge of English language, literature and culture in the first year, with a survey of American and British literature both before and after 1900 and courses on Anglo-American culture, English grammar, phonetics and phonology, and academic writing in English. The third year offers more specialized courses in literature and language. The major consists of 90 ECTS credits in English, that is English language (30 credits on level 100 and a 10-credit specialization course on level 200) and British and American culture/literature (30 credits on level 100 and a 10-credit specialization course on level 200). The bachelor’s thesis constitutes the final 10 credits in the English major.

The programme is multi-disciplinary. In addition to the compulsory major in English, there is a 60 ECTS credits elective minor component (see the programme structure diagram). To enhance language proficiency and ensure cultural competence, students are encouraged to spend one or two semesters abroad, or study courses at the university (UiA) given in English. Students who plan to continue to the English Master’s Programme and who aim to be teachers, are recommended to choose a national curriculum subject of 60 ECTS credits as the minor. The study programme includes focus on at least the following of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals:

Goal 4: Quality Education

Goal 5: Gender Equality

Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities

Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

* Elective course. 10 credits. Choose TFL111-2 or any other course. Contact the department for information. ** EX-111 Humaniora is recommended, but all variants of Ex.fac. are accepted.

The programme qualifies for admission to the Master's Programme in English at the University of Agder. To be accepted into the Master's Programme in English, students must have obtained the grade C or better from the major. The programme also qualifies for admission to the Master’s Programme in Social Communication, the Master’s Programme in Translation and Professional Communication and the Master’s programme in Technology, Humans and Society.

The bachelor's programme in English can be part of a study course leading to teaching certification and employment opportunities in the Norwegian school system. Please note course and programme requirements for acceptance to PPU-A teacher training in general subjects at the University of Agder. Graduates may also find employment in mass and digital media, in the culture sector, in public relations, in tourism, in executive positions in the public and private sectors, in publishing, or in the international and intercultural sector.