Full-time undergraduate English Studies (S1-PRK-FLA)

Description

First cycle study program is intended for secondary education graduates. Prospective candidates are expected to have passed the Polish school leaving examination (egzamin maturalny) or its equivalent, such as the International Baccalaureate or European Baccalaureate. Alternatively, a valid diploma certifying the completion of secondary education may serve as a basis for enrollment provided that it meets the standards established by the UW admissions authority. The duration of the studies is six semesters.

The English Studies major is considered part of the humanities. It encompasses courses in the fields of Theoretical and Applied Linguistics, as well as those relating to the Literature and Culture of the nations of the Anglosphere, among them Great Britain, the United States, Ireland, Canada, Australia, the Republic of South Africa, and others. Emphasis is put on the practical application of the knowledge and skills acquired.

The central principle of the program is the customization of study. Though students are obligated to attend compulsory courses, the majority of their study experience consists of elective courses tailored to individual interests and needs. Providing students with the opportunity to shape their academic experience is what makes our Institute one of a kind.

This unique course system is made possible owing to the efforts of a dedicated staff of experts. Most members of our faculty are not only teachers, but also accomplished scientists and scholars. As much as over 60% among them are distinguished professors. Our faculty are renowned experts in their respective fields.

The level of study personalization offered at our Institute cannot be matched by research institutions that have not adopted a course system. All core courses and electives associated with a student’s major are taught in English.

The primary goal of our study program is the creation of a unique environment which allows students to define their interests and consolidate their skills at very early stages of their academic careers. It is firmly believed that this promotes growth and development.

Instead of limiting our courses to specific professional training, our study program focuses on the development of useful transferrable skills that are highly sought after by many employers, among them self-training, teamwork, decision-making, composition, or public speaking. This is one of the reasons why our students can look forward to prospective careers in various fields. Through the application of our unique teaching methods students develop critical thinking, reflection, and problem solving skills.

Graduates possess a C1 Level knowledge of English (according to the EQF) and are trained in linguistics as well as the culture, literature, art, and sociology of English-speaking countries. In addition, their knowledge in the area of humanities makes them well-suited for both academic and professional careers.

Upon the completion of a teacher training module, students are qualified to teach English at all levels. The Institute of English Studies offers a teacher training program as a module which can be selected by a student in the general academic course of study. In other words, the teacher training is an additional option, which students in their first and/or second cycle may choose. Under current Polish regulations full teaching qualifications can be conferred upon holders of M.A. diplomas.

Compulsory Courses

The compulsory courses are designed to familiarize students with the potential offered by English Studies. They help students define their interest and equip them with the tools to develop them.

The List of Compulsory Courses is as follows:

1. American Literature
2. British Literature
3. Introduction to Literary Theory
4. Introduction to Cultural Studies
5. History of Britain
6. History of the United States
7. Theoretical Linguistics: Syntax, Phonetics, Phonology
8. Introduction to Linguistics
9. History of the English Language (Historical Linguistics)
10. Practical English Courses

Elective Courses

Elective courses are classes created and taught by faculty members specializing in particular fields of research, ensuring excellence both in terms of content and teaching. The name, description, and ECTS point value of each course is certified by the Institute’s Teaching Board upon recommendation of Academic Board. The list of currently available courses is available on the Institute’s website.

Having completed the compulsory courses, each student tailors his or her own academic experience by selecting courses according to individual interests and preferences. Students may choose from a variety of courses in Theoretical and Applied Linguistics, American Studies, or British Studies.

Majors and Minors

Beginning with the second year of first cycle studies, each student must choose a Major and a Minor from among the following disciplines:

1. Theoretical and Applied Linguistics
2. American Literature and Culture
3. British Literature and Culture

Type and Form of Study

The Institute of English offers a full-time course of study with no tuition fees. Teaching days are Monday through Friday.

The seat of the Institute is in Warsaw at 55 Dobra Street, in the modern building of the Faculty of Modern Languages, with a good public transportation system.

Traditional in-class or on-line modes of teaching depend on current regulations by the University Rector.

More information is available at Institute of English Studies.