The Sociolinguistics of English

Education facts

Code: 4EN021

This course provides social and linguistic perspectives on the English language by introducing students to the field of sociolinguistics and language policy and planning. In the first course, we learn about concepts that are key to understanding the use and status of English and other languages alongside English in different parts of the world. We then pay specific attention to linguistic and social variation in English as well as to power and linguistic imperialism that is associated with the English language. Finally, we learn about how sociolinguistic research is conducted, and students conduct a small project which they present to the group. The second course is specifically devoted to language policy and planning and the English language. Again, we learn key concepts that enable us to understand, talk and write about this field. Language policy and planning involves, for instance, the planning of language use, language form and language acquisition in a specific geopolitical area, for example a nation. It also involves language use in more restricted social spaces such as institutions, schools and libraries, and organisations such as the EU. Towards the end of the course, students conduct a small research project on a topic they develop in collaboration with fellow students and the teacher.

Entry requirements

90 credits in English or literary studies, including an independent project worth at least 15 credits or equivalent, or 90 credits in another humanities or social science subject or equivalent including an independent project worth at least 15 credits or equivalent, as well as English 6 or equivalent.

Education offerings

Each offering has its own dates and conditions. Closed offerings are retained as history and do not mean that a new application is open.

• The Sociolinguistics of English

  Linnaeus University (Kalmar Växjö)

  VÄXJÖ

  Start date: 31 August 2026

  End date: 17 January 2027

  Pace of study: 50 %