English Language and English Literature - what's the difference?

The study of English literature and English Language aims to stretch a student's independent thought and analytical skills. Students are expected to develop understanding by reading assigned critical theory, journals, texts and hone idea sharing through seminars, group discussions, debates. Depending on the country, it will take 3-4 years to earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English, and a further one or two years to achieve a Master of Arts (MA). Both these majors offer different experiences and outcomes. Here's a list of few of the differences:

English literature is more concerned with the thematic content of texts and typically involves poetry, prose and larger bodies of work and literary eras throughout history. Importance is imparted to different genres, such as historical fiction, magical realism, memoirs etc. Typical courses include creative writing, literature and gender, literature and the visual arts, literature and religion, etc. A course with a focus on English literature allows students to study literary texts from throughout history, with modules covering a diverse range of literature from different periods; from Shakespeare to Virginia Woolf.
The curriculum can also delve into specific time periods, and study and analyze passages including an understanding of modern literature and how it applies to contemporary cultural, social, historical and political events. Literature allows students to flex their interpretation muscles and explore philosophical and moral questions. It is a chance to discover how literature makes sense of the world through stories, poems, novels and plays. It is also a chance to sharpen your own ability to write, read, analyze and persuade. Creative Writing students receive instruction from published poets and fiction writers as they write their own original thesis project in poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction.
The subject helps develop skills of analysis, interpretation and self-expression. Students receive a thorough introduction to essential literary genres (novels, poems, criticism) and study the work of great canonical authors (Shakespeare, Milton, Austen, Dickens).Literature majors can pursue a variety of careers upon graduation. With strong reading, writing, and communication skills, their career choices include many different fields, such as journalism, marketing, and public relations.

English language Is more scientific in nature and looks at language in segments like Syntax, Morphology, Phonology. It focuses on the effectiveness of communication, grammar, rhetoric, and linguistics. Students are required to read and analyse a larger range texts. For example, studying extracts of advertising to look at how language is used to persuade consumers. An English language-focused degree will train students to analyze the workings of the English language outside of literature, including language-based communication in all kinds of forms and contexts. This could include analysis of casual spoken conversation, text speak, advertising methods or the uses of language in specialized legal and medical discourse.
The curriculum includes the study of English grammar, with an emphasis on the structure and mechanics of the English language. Learning includes how storytelling captivates audiences, conveys meaning, and creates change. These students become excellent communicators as a result of a curriculum that entails extensive reading, writing, research, and discussion, useful in numerous fields, including advertising, education, social work and media. Their ability to read, analyse, and communicate is an asset in a number of industries, such as publishing, advertising, writing, editing, broadcasting, teaching, etc.

Both majors are a unique and bold choice that offer a wide range of career paths. It is important for you to choose which one suites your interests and is best for your academic career.