Language and Literature: What the Course Involves, Areas of Study and What Students Learn in Art/Humanities

Language and Literature is a programme that combines the study of language with the study of literary works. It allows students to examine how language is structured, communicated and used while also studying literature, literary texts and the ideas expressed through them.

The JAMB Arts/Humanities classification lists Language and Literature as one of the programmes under the Faculty/School/College of Arts. It is listed separately from related programmes such as English Language and Literature, Foreign Language and Literature, Arabic Language and Literature, and English and Literary Studies.

What Do Language and Literature Students Study?

The programme brings together two closely connected areas: language and literature. Students may study language structure, communication and language use alongside literary texts and the techniques writers use to express ideas.

The literature component can involve the study and interpretation of different forms of literary works, including poetry, prose and drama. Students learn to examine themes, characters, language, style, structure and other features of literary texts.

Major Areas Covered

• Language: the structure, use and development of language.
• Literature: the study and interpretation of literary works.
• Literary Analysis: examining themes, characters, style, language and other elements in literary texts.
• Communication: understanding how language is used to convey ideas and information.
• Creative and Critical Reading: developing the ability to read, interpret and evaluate texts.

Who May Enjoy the Course?

Language and Literature may appeal to students who enjoy reading, writing, language, literary works, communication and critical analysis. It can be particularly suitable for students who want to develop a strong understanding of both language and literature rather than focusing exclusively on one of them.

Skills Students Can Develop

• Critical reading
• Language analysis
• Literary analysis
• Research and academic writing
• Communication
• Interpretation and evaluation of texts
• Critical thinking

The programme is officially listed within the Arts/Humanities grouping, alongside several other language and literature-related programmes. The brochure notes that the programmes advertised were received from the relevant institutions and approved by the appropriate authorities.

For admission requirements, candidates should check the exact institution because the conditions can differ from those of similar language or literature programmes.