What Is English Combined A Level?

You know you want to study English at A Level, but you can’t decide between Literature and Language. You’ve heard there’s another option, but what is an English Combined A Level? 

English Combined A Level (often called English Language and Literature) brings together the best bits of English Language and English Literature in one course. Think of it as getting two subjects rolled into one – you'll dive into classic novels and poetry whilst also exploring how language works in real world contexts.

Key Takeaways

• English Combined A Level merges English Language and Literature into one qualification 

• You'll study classic texts alongside modern language analysis and creative writing 

• It's perfect if you want a broad English education without specialising in just one area 

• Universities widely accept it, especially for humanities, media, and education courses

Who Should Take English Combined A Level?

Students who enjoy both Literature and Language but don't want to specialise

If you love getting lost in a good book or play but also find yourself fascinated by how people use spoken and technological English, an English Combined A Level might be for you.

Good for creative and analytical learners

This course suits students who enjoy both creative challenges and analytical thinking. One day you might be reading Romantic poetry, and the next you'll be analysing a political speech.

Those considering careers or degrees in humanities, media, journalism, teaching

English Combined opens doors to a wide range of career paths. Whether you're thinking about becoming a teacher, a journalist, or working in media and communications, this qualification provides excellent preparation.

What Does English Combined A Level Cover?

Combines elements of English Language and English Literature

You'll study how language works in conversation and in non-fiction whilst also exploring literary texts.  

Typical content includes prose, drama, poetry, non-fiction texts, and language analysis

Your reading list might include anything from Shakespeare's plays to contemporary novels by Ian McEwan, alongside newspaper articles and television interviews. You'll explore how different writers use language to create effects and convey meaning.

Includes creative writing and linguistic study

One of the things my students love about the Combined English A Level is that you get to be a writer, too. Expect to write your own stories, scripts, or poetry, whilst also studying how language has evolved over time and how it varies between different groups of people.

Specific set texts vary by exam board

Different exam boards choose different texts each year, so your course content will depend on which board your school or college uses. Popular choices often include works by authors like Kazuo Ishiguro, Tennessee Williams, or Margaret Atwood, but this can change annually.

Have a look at our past papers across exam boards to see an example of the texts you might study in an English Combined A Level. 

How Is English Combined A Level Assessed?

Mix of exams and coursework

Most exam boards use a combination of written exams and coursework (NEAs or non-examined assessments). Typically, you’ll do your exams at the end, but during your course you'll undertake independent research and complete your own written projects. 

Assessment includes comparative essays, close reading, and creative tasks

You might be asked to compare how two different writers approach the same theme, analyse a poem in detail, or create your own piece of writing in a particular style. 

Typical weighting is approximately 80% exam, 20% coursework

Whilst this varies between exam boards, most English Combined A Level courses have two or three heavily weighted exams, and one or two pieces of written coursework. 

Skills You'll Develop

Critical Analysis

You'll learn to read between the lines and spot techniques writers use to create meaning. This skill is invaluable whether you're studying literature, evaluating news articles, interviews, persuasive speeches or advertising.

Creative Writing

You'll experiment with voices and perspectives by transforming texts into a different form or writing in the style of your favourite writer. You’ll learn how to reflect on your choices as a writer by completing evaluative commentaries, too. 

Language Awareness

You'll understand how context shapes meaning, how writers and speakers choose words or create a tone of voice to reach specific audiences or to achieve a particular purpose. These skills are very transferable as they teach you how to be a great linguistic analyst.

Research and Independent Study

Planning coursework projects teaches you to find reliable sources, organise information, and present arguments clearly. Such independent research skills are gold dust for your studies at university, as well as in whichever career you might go into.

How Does It Compare to A Level English Literature or Language?

English Literature focuses on deeper textual analysis

A Level English Literature courses focus on literary texts, spending more time on historical context and literary criticism. You'll develop expert knowledge of canonical poets, playwrights, and authors across time and place. You’ll write evaluative, comparative, and analytical essays. 

English Language emphasises linguistics and language in different contexts

A Level English Language courses focus on communication as a whole. You’ll analyse spoken, written, and multi-modal English. You’ll also study how children learn language, the history of English, and how it changes over time. 

English Combined offers breadth over depth

You get exposure to both areas but won't go as deep into either as you would with the single subjects. Think of it as getting a taste of everything rather than specialising in either Literature or Language.

Is English Combined A Level Respected by Universities?

Yes, it's recognised by universities

An English Combined A Level is a well-established qualification that universities understand and value. Most UK universities include it in their entry requirements for relevant courses.

Some universities may prefer straight Literature for English degrees

If you're set on studying English Literature at university, check specific course requirements with UCAS (opens in a new tab). Some highly competitive courses prefer candidates with A Level English Literature, though many accept Combined English A Levels.

Widely accepted for humanities, media, teaching, and social science courses

For courses in journalism, media studies, education, or social sciences, an English Combined A Level is often viewed as favourably as the single subjects. Universities value the transferable skills it teaches.

Career and Further Study Opportunities

University pathways include English degrees, creative writing, linguistics, law, education, media, and journalism

The combination of analytical and creative skills opens doors to numerous degree courses. You're not limiting yourself to just English – many students use it as a stepping stone to law, psychology, or media studies.

Transferable skills valuable across careers

The communication, analysis, and creative thinking skills you develop are sought after in virtually every industry. Whether you end up in business, healthcare, or technology, these skills will serve you well.

Strong foundation for careers requiring clear communication

From marketing and public relations to teaching and counselling, any job that involves explaining ideas clearly to others will benefit from your English Combined background.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which exam boards offer English Combined A Level?

The main exam boards offering English Combined A Level include 

• AQA English Language and Literature A Level (opens in a new tab)

• OCR English Language and Literature A Level (opens in a new tab)

• WJEC Eduqas English Language and Literature A Level  (opens in a new tab)

• Edexcel Pearson English Language and Literature A Level (opens in a new tab)

Check with your sixth form or college as to the board they use. 

Is English Combined harder than English Literature or Language?

It depends on your own interests and skills. Consider whether you like reading a lot of books, plays, and poems, or if you prefer analysing non-fiction. You'll cover more ground in an English Combined A Level but you’ll need to deal with a variety of concepts rather than specialise in a few. 

What are the set texts for English Combined A Level?

Set texts vary between exam boards and specifications are updated periodically. Popular recent choices have included F Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby, plays like A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams, and a range of poetry from the Romantic period up to contemporary poets like Carol Ann Duffy. 

In a nutshell, an English Combined A Level is a great A Level if you don’t want to specialise in either Language or Literature. It builds transferable skills valued by universities. You’ll learn how to analyse non-fiction and literary texts, carry out independent research, and have a chance to practise reflective creative writing.