Is English Language a Good A Level?

Thinking about your A Level options? You know you want to study English, but you’re wondering if English Language A Level is a good choice. In a nutshell, A Level Language would be ideal if you preferred GCSE English Language to Literature. It’s also a good choice if you love sociology and history.

Let's break down everything you need to know.

Key Takeaways

• Perfect for students who enjoy analysing written and spoken communication

• Leads to university courses in linguistics, journalism, law, or psychology

• Good for students who don’t want to focus on novels, plays, or poems

• You’ll learn critical thinking, creative writing, research skills, and language analysis

What Does A Level English Language Involve?

A Level English Language is all about exploring how we use language in the real world. You'll explore topics like:

• Language Analysis: 

  • How people speak and write differently based on their audience

  • For instance, think about how you speak with friends compared with teachers

• Language Development: 

  • Discover how children learn to talk and write

• Social Contexts:

  • Examine how age, background, and identity shapes your speech.

• Language Change: 

  • Learn how English has evolved over time

• Digital Communication: 

  • Explore digital English: social media, texting, and online platforms .

You’ll engage with real conversations, interviews, letters, and articles. If you wanted to be a mind-reader or a detective when you were younger, this may be the course for you!

Ask your school or college which exam board they do. Then you can browse specific A Level English Language topics by exam board.

Who Should Consider Taking A Level English Language?

As an A Level English Language teacher, my students have told me they very much enjoy learning how language represents who we are. They’ve also said they love being able to ‘see through’ the ‘spin’ of political speeches or tabloid articles. 

It’s a great subject if you enjoy reading about people’s motivations and concerns across time. For example, you’ll learn about the way mental health has been written about from the 19th century through to today. If this sounds like you, then it may be right for you. 

A Level English Language is a good choice if you:  

• Love analysing why people say what they do

• Are curious how we use language to express our identity

• Enjoy investigative writing

• Get excited about debating different viewpoints

• Prefer studying real-world examples over fictional texts

What Can A Level English Language Lead To?

The skills you'll develop are broad and transferable. The course opens door to degrees, like:

• Linguistics and language studies 

• Journalism and media 

• Creative writing 

• Law 

• Psychology  

• Teaching

• Marketing and communications

Perhaps you’re interested in a career in:

• Journalism and broadcasting

• Publishing and editing

• Education

• Marketing and advertising

• Speech and language therapy

• Civil Service and government roles

• Social media management

Universities value English Language A Level because its students demonstrate analytical thinking, excellent written communication, and research skills. Russell Group universities particularly appreciate it for humanities and social science courses.

Pros and Cons of Studying English Language

You may not be certain what further study you’ll do after A Levels. It’s understandable, not to be sure of what career you’ll go into, either. You can, however, make an informed choice about your next step. To do this, think about your interests and strengths. 

Pros

Do you enjoy analysis? A Level Language will help you become a skilled analyst in a range of contexts. 

Do you like learning about society? Everything you learn links to real-world communication. You’ll explore how babies learn to talk, and how English is taught at school and at home. It explores bilingualism, accents, and global English.

How do journalists spin stories for specific audiences? How do politicians use language to persuade? This course helps you become propaganda-proof!

Are you a good writer? If you want to study an essay-based subject at university, A Level Language provides a solid foundation.

Cons

Do you like theory? Because of its sociological and psychological nature, there will be lots of technical terms and studies. There’s a module on how we make sounds in English. You’ll study linguistic theory, too.

Are you good at independent investigations? Case studies and research is a key course element. 

Do you enjoy history? You’ll read primary sources, like letters, diaries, and news articles from the past and present. 

Is there a chance you’ll do a Literature degree? Some universities prefer A Level Literature for certain English degrees. Always check specific course requirements.

Student Experiences and Testimonials

Over my years teaching A Level English Language, I’ve found that my students take a while to get used to the course. Think of it as a puzzle, I always say. At first, there are lots of blank spaces, but as the course progresses, pieces fit into place to form a clear picture. 

Here's what students have shared with me:

"Everything I learn is relevant to daily life. Now I know why young people use slang and create new words (so that adults don’t understand us!)” - Emily, Year 12

"The topics are interesting. For my coursework, I compared sports reports from the 19th and 21st centuries." - Jack, Year 13

"I liked learning where English came from. I was amazed at how different modern English is to Old English." - Shaheen, Year 13

Many students enjoy the creativity of the writing tasks. See what it's like to be a real journalist, or mimic the style of your favourite writer. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is English Language A Level respected by universities?

Yes, universities see A Level English Language as a tough academic subject. It builds strong analytical and communication skills. It's particularly valued for courses in humanities, social sciences, and communications.

Should I take English Language or English Literature?

Think about what you most enjoyed in GCSE English. A Level English Language is probably best if you enjoy reading articles and studying speeches. Pick English Literature if you prefer novels, plays, and poetry. 

What GCSEs do I need to take A Level English Language?

Typically, sixth forms and colleges require a Grade 6 in GCSE English Language. Some ask for Grade 6 in English Literature, too. Still, it’s best to check with your specific school or college as requirements vary. 

Final Thoughts

A Level English Language is a great choice if you’re curious about communication and enjoy analysis. It builds skills that universities and employers value. This subject is perfect for students who prefer a practical, modern approach over traditional literature. It covers topics that relate to your daily life.

If you like learning about history, social issues, and personal identity, then English Language A Level could be the right course for you.

Still not sure? Check out our guide on Is A Level Language hard? (opens in a new tab)