Enquiry

UNLIMITED ACCESS TO 80 CURATED AI COURSES

When you sign up for any of our programmes

Download E-Brochure
R2-DL/0231/6/0010(A11470)10/27

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English Studies

This programme is your gateway to mastering the English language as a critical tool and skill. It goes beyond arts, shaping you into a future-ready master communicator and strategic thinker. It's not just about learning; it's about shaping yourself for success​

Why Study with Us

At WOU, our top priority is to provide you with a high-quality online distance learning experience that seamlessly connects you with the intricate and elegant world of English studies. Our carefully crafted curriculum is built on a foundation of academic excellence, offering you the latest insights and developments in the field. Whether you’re exploring the rich tapestry of Language and Literature or embarking on a fulfilling journey in TESL to become a skilled educator in teaching English as a Second Language, our programme is designed to nurture your academic growth and fuel your passion for English. We provide essential tools and knowledge to help you thrive in both scholarly and professional spheres.

Our Advantage

Accredited by MQA

Our programme is fully accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). Additionally, it’s endorsed by the Public Service Department (JPA). With these stamps of approval, you’re not just pursuing education; you’re on a validated path by key regulatory authorities.

Personalised Learning

Benefit from an intimate learning atmosphere, thanks to small class sizes, where you can build meaningful connections with both tutors and fellow students.

Notable Alumni Success

Gain inspiration from the impressive achievements of our alumni who have excelled in their careers, some of whom have become industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs.

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in English Studies Course Overview

English Studies Course Essentials Quick Facts

All the facts and figures about your study programme at a glance

Study Model

Online ODL

3 Years – Full Time
4 years and 4 months – Part Time
Online ODL

Bachelor Arts (honours)

123 Credits

Language

English

Accreditation & Recognition

Accreditation

MQA, JPA

Fees & Scholarships*

Tuition Fees

RM32,500

Scholarships Available

 

*Terms & Conditions Apply

Study Duration

Duration

Part-Time is 4 years and 4 months
Full-Time is 3 years

Apply Now

Top Core Courses

Get a head start on your career with our Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English Studies. Here are some core courses designed to equip you with the most relevant and up-to-date skill set:
General Linguistics

This course aims to introduce students to the major sub-fields of linguistics, namely Phonetics and Phonology, Morphology, Syntax, Semantics and Pragmatics. Knowledge acquired in this course will form the foundation necessary for students to explore more specialised areas of linguistic study such as Sociolinguistics and Psycholinguistics.

Pragmatics

This course aims to help students to understand how lexical, grammatical, metaphorical, and interactional devices are used to express meanings, and how the meanings of words and structure change depending on context and circumstances. It will also helps to explain how the study of meaning can provide insights into the conceptualisation of experiences.

Discourse Analysis

This course offers insight into how people use language in everyday written and spoken forms. You will be introduced to the fundamental approaches to discourse analysis particularly from a social science perspective. The course will also provide opportunities for applying the tools of research in small scale projects. The course also develops the critical thinking skills about how discourses are constructed and helps decide the best way to analyse these discourses including an examination of the social and cultural aspects in language within specific contexts.

English Morphology and Syntax

This course examines the basic concepts of morphology and syntax such as morphemes, inflections, derivations, phrases, constituent structures and how they work in word and sentence formation. It explores selected morphological and syntactic concepts, theories and models. It will also discuss aspects related to morphological-syntactical descriptions and analysis.

Research Paper

This course trains students to integrate knowledge and skills from various sources into a coherent whole, making the appropriate abstractions of a research project. Students will gain a thorough understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of all research stages. This course teaches students to organise and conduct research and in the process gain in-depth knowledge of an issue/topic of current interest in their relevant field. Students will critically evaluate proposed solutions using appropriate proven research methods and tools to communicate their findings effectively.

Your Learning Pathway: From Basics to Mastery

Online (ODL), Full Time
YEAR 1: LANGUAGE AND SKILLS PROFICIENCY, APPLICATION OF LINGUISTIC KNOWLEDGE Online (ODL), Full Time

Students build a strong foundation for university study by developing essential academic skills such as writing, communication, and effective learning strategies. At the same time, they are introduced to core linguistic knowledge and begin applying language concepts in academic and everyday contexts.

YEAR 2: SPECIALISATION COURSE MASTERY (LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE OR TESL), APPLICATION OF THEORETICAL KNOWLEDGE TO PRACTICE Online (ODL), Full Time

Students choose to specialise in either Language and Literature or Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL). They study subject-specific courses in depth while learning to apply theories to practical, professional, and real-world situations. This year focuses on developing analytical thinking, digital skills, and effective communication.

YEAR 3: PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE AND SKILLS APPLICATION Online (ODL), Full Time

The final year focuses on preparing students for the workplace.

TESL students complete a 16-week Teaching Practicum in an education institution registered with the Ministry of Education Malaysia.

Language and Literature students complete a 16-week Industrial Training placement in an organisation where English is the main medium of communication.

This experience allows students to apply their knowledge, develop professional and ethical conduct, and gain real-world work experience.

Online (ODL), Part Time
YEAR 1: LANGUAGE AND SKILLS PROFICIENCY Online (ODL), Part Time

Students focus on developing essential academic skills, including academic writing, communication skills, and independent learning strategies, to support their university studies.

YEAR 2: APPLICATION OF LINGUISTIC KNOWLEDGE Online (ODL), Part Time

Students explore how language is used in real-world contexts. Through courses such as Discourse Analysis and Pragmatics, they learn to analyse language use and understand meaning in social and professional settings.

YEAR 3: SPECIALISATION COURSE MASTERY (LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE OR TESL) Online (ODL), Part Time

Students choose to specialise in either Language and Literature or TESL. This stage develops in-depth subject knowledge and analytical skills related to the chosen field.

YEAR 4: APPLICATION OF THEORETICAL KNOWLEDGE TO PRACTICE Online (ODL), Part Time

Students apply theoretical knowledge to practical and professional contexts. Emphasis is placed on effective communication, critical thinking, digital skills, and confident self-expression.

YEAR 5: PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE AND SKILLS APPLICATION Online (ODL), Part Time

TESL students undertake a 16-week Teaching Practicum in an education institution registered with the Ministry of Education Malaysia, subject to employer arrangements.

Language and Literature students complete a 16-week Industrial Training placement in an organisation that uses English as the main medium of interaction.

This final stage prepares students for employment and lifelong learning.

Study Content

MPU AND UNIVERSITY COURSES
No. Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
1 MPU3183 Penghayatan Etika dan Peradaban OR 3
MPU3143 Bahasa Melayu Komunikasi 2 (for international students)
2 MPU3193 Philosophy and Current Issues 3
3 MPU3213 Bahasa Kebangsaan A (for students without SPM credit in BM) OR 3
MPU3223 Decision Making Skills (for students with SPM credit in BM and foreign students)
4 MPU3422 Integriti dan Anti Rasuah (for students who have not completed KIAR at the diploma level)
OR
Co-curriculum (for students who have completed the KIAR at the diploma level)
 2
5 BBM210/03 Entrepreneurship Development 3
Subtotal Credit Hours 14
BASIC MAJOR COURSES
No. Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
1 ELL201/05 General Linguistics 5
2 ELL203/05 The History of the English Language 5
3 ELL204/05 Society and Language 5
4 ELL207/05 Pragmatics 5
5 ELL301/05 English Morphology and Syntax 5
6 ELL302/05 Discourse Analysis 5
7 ELL303/05 Readings and Research Work in English Studies 5
8 ELL305/05 Semantics 5
9 LSS312/05 Principles of Social Research 5
10 LSP103/05 Interpersonal Skills 5
Subtotal Credit Hours 50
CORE MINOR COURSES (Language and Literature)
No. Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
1 ELL210/05 English Language for Business Communication (APEL.C) 5
2 ELL205/05 Language and Media 5
3 ELL208/05 Introduction to British and American Literature 5
4 ELL209/05 New Literatures in English 5
5 ELL304/05 Critical Reading 5
6 ELL306/05 World Englishes 5
7 LHL221/05 Selections of Asian Literature 5
8 LHL331/05 Creative Writing (APEL.C) 5
Subtotal Credit Hours 40
CORE MINOR COURSES (Teaching English as a Second Language) - TESL
No. Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
1 EED205/05 Introduction to Pedagogy 5
2 EED208/05 The Arts for Children in Language Learning (APEL.C) 5
3 EED215/05 Currículum Theory and Design 5
4 EED216/05 Second Language Acquisition 5
5 EED217/05 Language Assessment 5
6 EED306/05 English Language for Teachers (APEL.C) 5
7 EED308/05 English Language Teaching in Malaysia 5
8 EED309/05 Principles and Practices of English Language Teaching in Primary Schools 5
Subtotal Credit Hours 40
CORE: FINAL YEAR PROJECT
No. Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
1 LSS313/06 Research Paper 6
Subtotal Credit Hours 6
OPEN ELECTIVE COURSE
No. Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
1 EED228/05 Education in a Globalised World 5
2 EED202/05 Inclusive Education 5
3 LSP205/05 Managing Stress at Work 5
4 LLS101/05 Introduction to Humanities 5
Subtotal Credit Hours 5
CORE: PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE
No. Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
1 ELL311/08 Industrial Training (For Language and Literature minor) OR (APEL.C) 8
2 EED310/08 Teaching Practice and Internship (For TESL Minor) OR (APEL.C) 8
3 EED311/08 Teaching Internship Project (For TESL minor) 8
Subtotal Credit Hours 8
Total Credit Hours 123

Admission

Entry Requirement

Candidates with the following criteria will be eligible to be considered for admission into the undergraduate programme:

1. Regular Entry

A Pass in Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) with a minimum of grade C (GPA 2.00) in any two (2) subjects or its equivalent and credit in English at SPM or its equivalent; or
A pass in Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia (STAM) with a minimum grade of Jayyid and a credit in English at SPM or its equivalent; or
A Diploma (Level 4, MQF) with a minimum CGPA of 2.00 or its equivalent and a credit in English at SPM or its equivalent; or
Matriculation/Foundation with a minimum CGPA of 2.00 or its equivalent and a credit in English at SPM or its equivalent.
A-Level, minimum Grade D in any two (2) subjects and credit in English at SPM or its equivalent; AND
A minimum score of 6.0 in IELTS or its equivalent

APEL Entry: Turning Experience into Credentials

Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) provides an opportunity for individuals with working experience but lack of formal academic qualifications to pursue their tertiary studies. APEL involves the identification, documentation and assessment of prior experiential learning to determine the extent to which an individual has achieved the desired learning outcomes, for access to a programme of study.

Applicants should comply with the following admission criteria stipulated by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) and Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA):

The candidate should be:

  • The applicant shall be 21 years of age in the year of application and must possess relevant work experience.
  • Pass the APEL.A assessment for Bachelor’s Degree level.

Find out how to apply: APEL

Scholarships & Financial Aid

For details and inquiries on Scholarships & Financial Aid, you can find out more here.

Future Career Paths with a BAES

Find exciting career in teaching, media, advertising, and the realms of writing and publishing. Your journey doesn’t stop there; you can continue to advanced studies in English, communications, education, or any field where impeccable communication skills are the key to success

5
English Teacher in a Private School
5
Copywriter
5
Lecturer in a Higher Learning Institution
5
Translator or Tour Guide
5
Writer
5
Legislative Aide
5
Journalist

Why WOU is The Best Online University of Choice

If You are Working While Studying

Your Studies are Felxible icon

Your Studies are Flexible
and 100% Online

Accredited Globally icon

Accredited & Globally
Recognised

You Gain icon

You Gain
Full Support

The Ideal Mix of Theory icon

The Ideal Mix of Theory
and Practice

Our Success Stories

Discover the impact we've had, straight from our campus family.

Seow Yim Ho

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in English Studies

My name is Seow Yim Ho. I am an English language facilitator at Avenue Creative Learning. My journey at Wawasan Open University began in April 2016 and ended in December 2021.  It took me six years to complete the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English Studies programme. Doing a language and linguistic programme is interesting, challenging and fulfilling. Getting an academic qualification in English Studies at WOU has enhanced my position as an English language teacher to impart my knowledge effectively and efficiently to my students.  Moreover, the knowledge gained is invaluable and the learning experience is priceless.  WOU has given every working adult an opportunity to further their studies, to realise their potential, to follow their academic dreams and to propel to a higher level.  Tenacity, faith, and hard work are the very essence of success.

Kang Tan Hooi Ling

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Psychology

Choosing WOU to pursue my degree in psychology is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. As a career woman, it was a major step in my life to go back to school. However, I felt that I had reached a plateau as an individual. Returning to academia exposed me to new insights, arming me with better solutions to problems in life and work. These new perspectives allow me to bring my career to greater heights. I urge you all to do the same!

Henry Choong Yoon Chien

Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies (Hons)

I am proud to be the first batch of graduates in BA (Hons) Liberal Studies at WOU after 6 years of studies at WOU KL. It really helps me to widen my knowledge, especially in my new career as an estate planning consultant.

View More...

Meet Our Faculty Members

Explore our Faculty Research Profiles for detailed research interests and active projects across our academic.

Our faculty members blend academic excellence with rich industry experience, ensuring your education is both rigorous and practically relevant. Committed to your success, they equip you with the insights and skills essential for navigating the ever-changing educational landscape.

Ms. Tang Wan Chin

Lecturer

Ms. Sundarai A/P Muniandy

Lecturer

Mr. Brian John Dorai

Senior Lecturer

Dr. Chin Wen Cong

Lecturer

View More...

YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED IN THESE STUDY PROGRAMMES

A kindergarten educator teaching a group of young children after graduating with a diploma in education in WOU.
Diploma in

Early Childhood Education

R-DL/0112/4/0076(MQA/FA7916)09/28
Online (ODL) Full-Time & Part-Time
Our early childhood education course empowers tomorrow’s educators. WOU’s Diploma in Early Childhood Education is aligned with the government’s vision to elevate preschool teaching standards, offering a valuable upgrade for...

check icon Scholarships Available

Discover More
A psychologist sitting in with her client after a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at WOU, a course under the School of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences.
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in

Psychology

R2-DL/0313/6/0022(A10926)01/27 | N/0313/6/0064(MQA/PA18615)11/30
Online (ODL) Full-Time & Part-Time
Our WOU psychology programme equips you with a robust foundation in psychological theory, research, and practical application. Dive deep into the complexities of human behaviour, exploring cognition, emotions, motivation, and...

check icon Scholarships Available

Discover More
Bachelor of

Education (Honours)

R2-DL/0110/6/0001(A10989)03/27 | N/0113/6/0010(MQA/PA18610)12/32
Online (ODL) Full-Time & Part-Time
The Bachelor of Education (Honours) is your pathway to a fulfilling career in education. Elevate your expertise and make a lasting impact as a Primary School Teacher or a Special...

check icon Scholarships Available

Discover More
Enrol in WOU’s education courses in Malaysia under the School of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences.
Master of Arts in

Psychology

R-DL/0313/7/0012(MQA/FA8503)06/27
Online (ODL), Full-time & Part-time
The Master of Arts in Psychology is a dynamic programme, designed to address the surging need for professional growth in the realm of psychology. In a world where the demand...

check icon Scholarships Available

Discover More
WOU’s education courses in Malaysia are built for the modern workforce.
Master of

Education

R3-DL/0110/7/0001(MQA/FA0521)04/31 N/0110/7/0007(MQA/PA18492)11/30
Online (ODL) Full-Time & Part-Time
This programme dives deep into the realms of education research, ethical principles, professional development, cutting-edge curriculum design, and technology-integrated teaching. It’s not just education; it’s a profound study designed to...

check icon Scholarships Available

Discover More
Post Graduate Diploma in

Education

R3-DL/0113/7/0025(A10990)03/30
Online (ODL), Full-time & Part-time
Imagine a future where you’re not just an aspiring educator, but a highly qualified one. The Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) is your 16-month pathway to a fulfilling teaching...
Discover More
Doctor of

Philosophy in Education

N-DL/0110/8/0003(MQA/PA15732)07/29 N/0110/8/0024(MQAPA17943)12/31
Online (ODL)/Conventional, Full-time & Part-time
Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey, fueled by your passion for education? Envision a path that not only amplifies your expertise but also empowers you to become...
Discover More