General provisions

The curriculum was adopted by the board of the Faculty of Languages on 2006-12-07. The curriculum was revised 2008-11-13 and takes effect as of 2009-07-01.

Entry requirements

Completed course English A, English B and English C or equivalent.

Learning outcomes

Upon completing the course students will be able to

- summarise historical reasons behind the global expansion of English

- demonstrate a clear conception of theoretical models and relevant terminology in the field of global English

- show familiarity with research methods in linguistic variation in Present-day English

- write a short linguistic essay

- assume an academic position in relation to primary and secondary material

- actively and independently participate in seminar discussions by presenting delimited research topics within linguistic variation in global English.

Content

The course provides students with a broad overview of historical reasons behind the development of English into a world language. Moreover, the course aims to provide students with insights into sociolinguistic concepts regarding linguistic variation in global English, such as language contact, convergence, divergence, and standardisation processes. Linguistic variation is also discussed in connection with the concept of language planning.

Instruction

Group sessions. Instruction, class discussions, and examinations are in English. All teaching materials are in English.

Assessment

Students are examined in the form of oral presentations, written assignments, and a written home essay. Grades are fail, pass, or pass with distinction.

Students who fail a regular examination will be offered a make-up examination within a reasonable period of time after the regular examination.

Students who fail an examination twice have the right to apply to the head of the department for permission to change examiners or examination forms.

Course level in relation to degree requirements

A one-year Master's degree (magister) requires an additional 22.5 academic credits at the Master's level in the main subject area, at least 15 of which must comprise a degree project. A two-year Master's degree requires an additional 52.5 academic credits at the Master's level in the main subject area, at least 30 of which must comprise a degree project.

Other regulations

If the curriculum or the course literature for a course is changed, students have the right to be examined on the original curriculum and course literature on two occasions during the following term. After these two opportunities, the right normally expires. No other limitations apply regarding the number of examination opportunities.

Admission to the Master's level requires the completion of 80 (old) credits or 120 academic credits of the type introduced July 1, 2007.

Transitional provisions

Please contact the student counsellor for transitional regulations in connection with changes in the curriculum.