Skip navigation Skip to main navigation for this site Skip to navigation for this section

  • Academic English and Language Development
  • 2012/2013 entry
  • Contact us
  • Assessment

    • Coursework requirements vary for each module, and can include timed exercises, oral presentations, an essay, shortened mock examinations, and reading comprehension. 

  • Attendance
      • Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes (full-time): August/September, five weekdays for three–four weeks.
      • Other modules: October–December, January–March or April–June; normally two and a half or four hours per week (mostly on Saturdays; some are on weekdays).
  • Duration

    • See individual modules for details.

  • Entry requirements

    • There are no formal entry requirements, but you are strongly encouraged to contact the Academic English team (see 'Contact us') to discuss the most suitable module for you. Modules are offered from intermediate to very advanced levels, including modules for native or near-native speakers of English (NSE). There are also modules specifically designed for non-native speakers of English (NNSE).

  • Fees and funding
  • Financial support
      • If you are a new student starting on a course in autumn 2012, you may be able to get a student loan to cover your fees and other Birkbeck financial support. Check if you're eligible.
      • If you are already studying with us and continuing on a course that you started before autumn 2012, find out about financial support and see if you are eligible.
      • Not sure if you are a new or a continuing student? See here for more information.
  • Location
    • Central London and Stratford.
  • Teaching

    • All classes are conducted in a friendly, supportive atmosphere. Teaching methods are student-centred, task-based and collaborative. You will be guided in the classroom to learn through doing, by engaging in problem-solving activities in pairs, small groups and in plenary discussions. Individual learning will be reinforced by completing homework tasks.

      For some modules you will be required to buy a textbook that is an integral part of the module. You will be informed by the lecturer in the first class if there is a required textbook.

Need more help?

Leave your email address and get up-to-date information on finance and our free advice sessions.




By registering your email you are agreeing to receive emails from Birkbeck, University of London. We will not share your details with anyone else. Click here for Birkbeck data policy .

Academic English and Language Development - 2012/2013 entry


  • Overview
      • Develop your spoken and written English in an academic context, while taking your undergraduate or postgraduate degree.
      • Prepare for an international certificate that is accepted as an English language requirement by UK universities.
      • Improve your English language skills for work or further study.
      • Choose from modules designed for native speakers of English (NSE) or non-native speakers of English (NNSE), depending on your background and requirements.
  • Why study this course at Birkbeck?

    • These modules aim to help you improve and develop your use of the English language. If you are already studying at university on a foundation, undergraduate or postgraduate degree, choose a module designed to help develop your academic writing or speaking.

      If you are preparing to apply for university and English is not your first language, you may need to provide proof of your English language ability. Modules preparing you for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Cambridge English Advanced and Cambridge English Proficiency examinations provide the opportunity to obtain an internationally recognised English language qualification that is accepted by UK universities.

      Alternatively, if you live and work in London and simply feel the need to improve your language skills, there are modules designed to help you extend your knowledge of English grammar and vocabulary.

  • Course structure and modules
  • Further study opportunities

    • Some students have sought employment, promotion and access to higher education after completing our modules. Others have chosen to progress through the modules to raise their English level and increase their skills more generally. 

  • How to apply/enrol

    • ME (modular enrolment): enrol for individual modules (see 'Course structure and modules').

      Some modules are marked ME(P) (modular enrolment with prerequisites): you can enrol on these modules as long as you meet the required prerequisites.