Our MA in English Literature is taught by a team of distinguished critics, scholars and creative writers, all working at the cutting edge of their disciplines. As well as developing your skills as a critical thinker, you will join a thriving intellectual community, and benefit from a range of guest seminars and masterclasses, many of which are organized through our Institute of Creative and Critical Writing.

What's covered in the course?

The course is aimed at undergraduates who want to take their interest in literature to the next level, as a career development opportunity or simply for the love of the subject. Students with interests in both literary criticism and creative writing can opt to take a module from our MA in Creative Writing.

At the centre of the course is the module ‘Literature and Place’, which encourages students to think about how literary writing responds to, and creates, the places we inhabit and move through. Situated in the heart of a culturally diverse and always evolving city, you will be perfectly located to think about how writing intersects with the world it describes.

Texts for study are drawn from a range of historical periods, but the intellectual focus is distinctly contemporary.

As well as receiving specialist tuition from expert tutors, you’ll attend our programme of guest speakers and public events devoted to the ongoing life of literary writing.

Professional Placement option

This course offers an optional 20-week Professional Placement, available to full-time students after the end of the Master’s year. The Professional Placement will allow you to evidence your professional skills, attitudes and behaviours at the point of entry to the postgraduate job market. Please note that an additional fee is payable if you choose to pursue the Professional Placement version of the course.