English Literary Studies (MA)

You’ll need a 2:1 degree in English literature or a related subject.

If you are over 21 and feel you would benefit from degree-level studies, we can be more flexible with our entry requirements. We’ll expect you to demonstrate your commitment by means of some recent serious study, such as: 

• at least 1 A level pass 
• completion of an Open University foundation course 
• completion of an appropriate Access course 

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need an overall score of 6.5 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:

We accept other English language tests, find out which English language tests we accept.

Got a question?

If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.

This is a full-time master’s course. You’ll study for 12 months, from September to the following September.

In the first 9 months (semesters 1 and 2) you’ll study the taught part of your course.

This is made up of modules that everyone on the course takes, and modules we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options. We’ll also begin preparing you for your independent research project and dissertation.

For the last 3 months, over the summer, you’ll work independently to research and write your dissertation. You’ll have one-to-one meetings with your supervisor during this time to discuss your progress.

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Learning

We’re committed to giving you a relevant, modern and above all enjoyable experience that will ensure you graduate with the skills and understanding you need for your chosen career or further research. Our module leaders are experts in their chosen fields and will engage you with their own experiences of research. Their teaching methods will challenge you intellectually and expose you to new ideas, approaches and perspectives.

The learning activities for this course include:

• small seminar groups
• student-led debates
• group work
• oral presentations
• individual consultation

We also offer additional opportunities such as exploring a unique collection of early women's writing at Chawton House Library, visiting a 19th-Century handpress printing workshop, and the chance to hear from visiting speakers from international universities.

A large part of postgraduate study is independent learning. This course will develop your critical awareness, encouraging you to reflect on the methodologies employed in further study and to apply these to your reading and research. Subject to availability, you may choose to take 2 special projects in an area of departmental expertise.

Assessment

Depending on the modules you choose, we’ll assess you through a combination of:

• essays
• group presentations
• independent research project and dissertation

Dissertation

You’ll complete independent research, with guidance from a supervisor, to produce an in-depth, scholarly study of an aspect or body of literature which interests you. The 15,000-word dissertation is your chance to demonstrate the knowledge and skills you have developed throughout the course.

Academic Support

You’ll have access to:

• sample anonymised dissertations from previous years
• research seminars and visiting lectures
• general guidance and support from your Personal Academic Tutor
• dissertation guidance from your supervisor

A master's in English literature is excellent preparation for a career in teaching, publishing and arts administration. Our graduates go on to careers in:

• writing (from journalism to fiction)
• education
• international PhD programmes
• teaching
• broadcasting
• creative industries

Careers services at Southampton

We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV/resume and interview skills workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:

• our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
• a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
• our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

• UK/EU students pay £9,250.
• International students pay £18,812.

Check fees for other versions of this course.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and all examinations.

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton you get a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.

Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK and EU nationals only)

This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.

Funding your postgraduate studies

A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries  may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.

You can apply directly through our online form by using the apply button on this page.

Application deadlines

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

You'll also need to send 2 academic references. 

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

You may also be asked to provide:

• a sample of written work

Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will assess your application on the strength of your:

• academic achievements
• relevant professional experience
• personal statement
• academic references

We'll get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.

We may invite you to an interview, which will take place by phone if you live abroad. You'll get an email from the admissions tutor if we'd like to talk to you before offering you a place.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000