MA in English Literature
With pathways in:
- Advanced Studies in English Literature (Open Pathway)
- Editorial and Intertextual Studies
- Gender
- Literature, Theory and Culture
- Medieval and Renaissance Studies
- Nineteenth-Century Studies
- Twentieth-Century Studies
The MA in English Literature at Cardiff offers an exciting opportunity for students to expand their intellectual horizons while developing advanced-level research, writing and analytical skills. A stimulating programme of research-led modules – ranging from the medieval to the modern – provides students with an excellent grounding in some of the key historical, conceptual and political contexts informing literary research at postgraduate level.
The flexible structure of the MA enables students to assemble programmes of study tailored to their personal and professional interests. While the MA provides excellent research training for students who plan to move on to further study at PhD level, it is also ideal for those who wish to deepen their understanding of the discipline. Many of our students have undertaken the MA to strengthen their transferable skills for a variety of future or current careers, including journalism, publishing, teaching and administration.
Students are free to follow one of the specialist pathways or the Open Pathway; they take two modules per semester and all modules are open to all students.
Entry Requirements
Students are normally required to hold a first degree in English Literature (single or joint honours) of at least 2:1 standard, but applicants with other relevant qualifications will be considered.
How to Apply
You may apply online or send us a paper application form (also available from the 'Apply' section of Cardiff University's website). Applications are considered on a continuous basis throughout the year.
In addition to the application form we require the following supporting documents:
- Two academic references
- Copies of two essays on a literary topic (undergraduate essays are welcome)
- Photocopies of all relevant supporting documentation (e.g. degree certificates and transcripts)
The School welcomes applications from students from outside the United Kingdom. More information is provided on our International Students page.
Assessment
Assessment is by one 4,000-word essay (or equivalent) for each taught module and a dissertation of 16,000-20,000 words.
Length of Course
The MA programme is one year full-time, with entry every September.
Teaching
All teaching is by seminars and workshops structured around student participation and interaction, with opportunities for students to present their work. Each module (except Research Methods and Training) consists of a two-hour seminar per week.
Research Methods and Training
All students attend weekly, one-hour Research Methods and Scholarly Presentation workshops. The purpose of these workshops is to develop and enhance students’ research skills and to provide them with the methodological and critical knowledge to develop a dissertation project.
The School welcomes applications from students from outside the United Kingdom. More information is provided on our International Students page.
The School also offers opportunities for full-time and part-time study leading to the degrees of PhD and MPhil. Please see our Postgraduate Research section for further information.
Funding
For details of possible funding opportunities please visit the following sites:
More details about this course can be found on the Coursefinder.
MA Pathways
Follow us on