Is Studying English Language Hard? What Are the Career Opportunities?

What is the English Language field?

The English Language field is a specialisation that trains knowledge of the language, literature and culture of English-using countries. At the same time, this field equips high-level language skills such as listening, speaking, reading, writing, translation and English teaching. This is not simply learning a foreign language but also in-depth research on language structure, theoretical linguistics, phonetics, syntax, semantics, Anglo-American literature and the culture of English-speaking countries.

The English Language training programme at universities usually lasts 4 years and includes subject groups such as: Language skills, Linguistics, Anglo-American literature, Translation, English teaching methodology and supporting subjects on the culture, history and society of English-speaking countries.

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Is studying English Language hard?

The answer to this question depends on many factors such as personal ability, learning method and career goal. However, to evaluate objectively, we need to consider the difficulties commonly encountered when studying this field.

The language barrier

English Language students must face high requirements for in-depth level, not only communicating but also using the language academically and accurately. Pronouncing correctly in the Anglo-American accent and firmly grasping intonation and stress require a continuous practice process.

Besides that is the large volume of academic vocabulary, complex advanced grammar together with the requirement to understand the culture and history of English-speaking countries. Reading and analysing classic literary works is also a big challenge for many students.

A vast volume of knowledge

The English Language field not only teaches “speaking English” but is also a social-science field with a huge volume of theoretical knowledge. Students must study many in-depth subjects such as theoretical linguistics, phonetics, morphology, syntax, semantics and pragmatics – subjects that require analytical thinking and high research ability.

According to statistics from the Ministry of Education and Training of Vietnam – the State’s official higher-education management agency – the English Language training programme usually has 120-140 credits. Of these, more than 70% are specialised subjects taught entirely in English.

Career competition

The English Language field is one of the fields with the largest number of students in Vietnam. According to a report by Navigos Group – the company that owns Vietnam’s No. 1 job-search site VietnamWorks – every year about 20,000-25,000 students graduate from the English Language field and related fields. This creates fierce competition in the labour market.

To stand out, students not only need a degree but must also have international certificates (IELTS 7.5+, TOEFL iBT 100+, TESOL, CELTA), practical experience (teaching, interpreting, translation) and soft skills (communication, presentation, teamwork). At the same time, students usually need supporting skills such as informatics, marketing and business to increase competitiveness.

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Solutions to help overcome difficulties when studying the English Language field

Although there are many challenges, with the right method and effort, you can completely conquer the English Language field successfully.

Keep an optimistic, diligent spirit

Learning a language is a long journey, so you need to keep a positive mentality and persistently practise every day. Don’t be discouraged when you make mistakes; see them as an opportunity to improve yourself. Maintaining a regular study habit and nurturing a love of English will help you progress faster and more sustainably.

Clearly determine goals and make a detailed plan

To study effectively, you need to set specific goals for each stage, then build a study plan suited to your time budget and ability. Allocate time reasonably for the skills and regularly monitor progress to adjust when needed. Having clear goals and a specific roadmap will help you maintain motivation and sustainable progress.

Persevere and make effort every day

To enhance your English level, you need to maintain regular practice of the 4 skills of listening – speaking – reading – writing every day and create an English-using environment around you. Proactively learning from many different sources such as books, apps, online courses, films or podcasts will help expand your language repertoire comprehensively.

Choose a suitable university

Choosing a reputable university with a high-quality training programme is a decisive factor for success. Carefully learn about the lecturer team (level, experience), teaching methods (modern, interactive, lots of practice), facilities (language lab, English-materials library), and internship and job opportunities after graduation.

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Career opportunities of the English Language field

According to a report by the Vietnam Universities and Colleges Association (VUFA) – a non-governmental organisation representing universities in Vietnam – the rate of English Language students having a job within 6 months of graduation reaches over 80%, much higher than many other fields. The average starting salary is from 8 – 15 million VND/month, and can be up to 20 – 40 million VND/month with good experience and capacity.

With excellent English proficiency, you can apply for master’s and doctoral scholarships at reputable universities in the world (the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore…). After that, you can work at international organisations, settle abroad, or become a good lecturer or language expert to take on important positions.

Why should you choose the English Language field at HUFLIT?

Ho Chi Minh City University of Foreign Languages – Information Technology (HUFLIT) is one of the leading reputable English Language training addresses in the southern region. The unit has been and is bringing a comprehensive learning environment to students.

• A modern training method: HUFLIT applies a learner-centred teaching method, strengthening practice of the 4 skills and using technology in teaching. In addition, the University also organises a rich variety of extracurricular activities.
• A quality learning environment: Modern facilities with a language lab equipped with advanced technology, a rich digital library and a comfortable study space. In particular, HUFLIT has a multicultural environment with many international students and native lecturers, creating conditions for students to practise English in a real environment.
• A team of experienced lecturers: The lecturers at HUFLIT all have a high level (Master’s, PhD), many trained abroad and holding international teaching certificates (CELTA, DELTA, TESOL). They not only convey knowledge but also share practical experience and orient careers for students.
• Internship and job opportunities: HUFLIT has close relationships with many enterprises, foreign-language centres, international schools and international organisations, creating internship and job opportunities for students right while studying. Many students are accepted for official employment after their internship.
• International joint programmes: HUFLIT has student-exchange programmes, study-abroad scholarships and 2+2, 3+1 programmes with universities in the US, UK and Australia. This helps students have the opportunity to study and experience internationally.

Frequently asked questions about whether studying English Language is hard

Are you wondering whether studying English Language is really as “tough” as many people think? In reality, the level of difficulty also depends on the foundation, learning method and goal of each person. Below are the common questions about whether studying English Language is hard to help you better understand the study programme, the skills needed and the development opportunities in this field.

What qualities does an English Language learner need?

To succeed in the English Language field, you need some basic qualities:

• A passion for language and culture, curiosity to explore English-speaking countries.
• Good communication ability, confidence, not being afraid to speak in front of a crowd.
• Logical thinking and analytical ability to study linguistics and translation subjects.
• Perseverance and diligence in practising daily because learning a language needs long-term accumulation.
• Self-study ability and independent exploration and research.

Is it easy to be unemployed after studying English Language?

Although the number of graduates in this field is large, the demand for personnel with a high English level is still very large. According to statistics from JobStreet Vietnam, there are more than 30,000 recruitment posts requiring proficient English each month on this platform.

Is studying a second-degree English Language programme hard?

Studying a second-degree English Language programme (for those who already have a university degree in another field) is usually easier than studying full-time because: You already have university-study experience, know how to self-study and manage time. The second-degree programme is usually shortened, focusing on the main specialised subjects. You are more mature, have clear motivation and specific career goals. You can study while working, applying knowledge immediately in reality.

The content above has clarified the issue of whether studying English Language is hard. Studying English Language has certain challenges, but with a suitable method and perseverance, you can completely conquer this field. If you are passionate about language and wish to be trained in a professional environment, learn about the English Language field at HUFLIT.

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