The National University of Singapore (NUS) is one of the leading universities in Asia and in the world. It’s Singapore’s flagship university, where top students from around the globe gather for an elite tertiary education. As the launchpad for several CEOs, founders of notable technology companies, high-ranking United Nations officials, ministers and heads of state, a Pulitzer-Prize winner and even a Hollywood actor, this is a university that has trained countless individuals to achieve excellence.

Where better to study English, Linguistics and Theatre Studies? The Department of English, Linguistics and Theatre Studies (ELTS) is one of NUS’s oldest departments. Since 1929, it has prepared students for a wide range of professional fields, from civil service and publishing to business and entrepreneurship. Beyond any specific profession, it is the definitive choice for anyone seeking to hone and sharpen the qualities that modern employers want: independence, flexibility, critical acumen, articulacy, and the ability to work productively with people from all walks of life.

Students gain these skills because the department provides the ideal environment in which to explore, learn, and thrive. The department houses three related disciplines — Language and Linguistics, English Literature, and Theatre and Performance Studies — as well as three undergraduate majors and three graduate programmes. In this vibrant setting, there is ongoing exposure to varied disciplines, different ways of thinking, and diverse conversations with peers and professors at various stages of your academic journeys. In this way, ELTS provides a lively intellectual hub and a jump-start on a global future bright with opportunity.

Beyond the classroom, NUS offers a vibrant campus life with activities that will enrich your university experience. There are a wide range of student organisations, clubs, and events specifically catering to students of English, Linguistics, and Theatre Studies. You’ll find yourself among like-minded peers, collaborating on projects, discussing big ideas, and creating lifelong friendships.

For example, for English literature enthusiasts, there’s always something happening — from poetry readings to literary talks. NUS has its own student-run literary society where you can contribute your creative writing, essays, or reviews. As a Theatre Studies major, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take part in local performances and productions. Student-run theatre groups are another way to experiment, grow, and develop your craft.

Step beyond the leafy, tropical campus and you have a chance to explore a country that serves as the cultural gateway to Southeast Asia. The city-state's unique blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western influences enriches daily life — and the local diet! — and adds real-life depth to studies in literature, linguistics, and theatre studies. In Singapore, you will remember not just what you learn in class but what you experience outside of the classroom — whether that’s enjoying some of the best and most diverse food in Southeast Asia, hearing local dialects at the hawker centre, or attending theatre productions that showcase unique perspectives.

NUS is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, which play a crucial role in supporting students’ academic and creative work. The libraries here are extensive, housing a vast collection of texts that span centuries and genres. Whether you’re doing research for a literature essay or diving into linguistic data, you’ll find what you need. The Central Library, in particular, is a popular space for students to study, collaborate, and access a wealth of academic materials. The university also houses several museums and art spaces that are important components of Singapore’s cultural scene.

NUS provides comprehensive student support services to ensure a well-rounded university experience. From career counselling and internship opportunities to mental health services and student housing, NUS is committed to supporting its students both academically and personally.

The NUS Centre for Future-ready Graduates offers career guidance, helping students build the skills and networks to succeed in their chosen fields. They organise career fairs, workshops, and talks to connect you with industry professionals, providing valuable networking opportunities. This support is invaluable for students in English, Linguistics, and Theatre Studies as they can explore careers in a broad range of areas such as publishing, education, communications, and the arts.