English Literature

Entry requirements

The minimum entry level required for this course is as follows:

• a first or second-class honours degree from a recognised university or,
• a recognised professional qualification with relevant work experience

Months of entry

September

Course content

Deepen your understanding of literature and pursue your own research interests with the MA and PhD in English Literature at the University of Buckingham. These research-led programmes offer the opportunity to explore writers, movements and ideas that have shaped literary culture from the early modern period to the present day, while developing advanced analytical and research skills.

The MA in English Literature by Research allows you to focus on a literary topic that fascinates you, working closely with expert supervisors in a supportive academic environment. Through seminars, postgraduate reading groups and guest lectures, you will refine your research approach before completing a substantial 25,000 - 30,000 word dissertation on your chosen subject. This flexible programme encourages independent thinking while providing personalised guidance through one-to-one supervision.

Research topics can span a wide chronological range - from literature of the sixteenth century through to contemporary writing - giving students the freedom to investigate areas such as Shakespeare, the nineteenth-century novel, Modernism, women’s writing or modern poetry. Recent student projects have explored subjects including the novels of Elizabeth Bowen, the work of C. S. Lewis and experimental narratives in modernist literature.

For those ready to take their scholarship further, the PhD in English Literature offers the opportunity to produce original research that contributes new knowledge to the field. Doctoral candidates work closely with two supervisors, participate in seminars and reading groups, and complete an 80,000 - 100,000 word thesis demonstrating an original critical contribution to literary studies. The programme normally takes three years full-time or six years part-time.

With small teaching groups, close supervision and an active research community, Buckingham provides an ideal environment for developing as a literary scholar. Whether you are interested in historical literary traditions or contemporary writing, these programmes support you in transforming your intellectual curiosity into original research.

If you are passionate about literature and ready to develop your own research project, discover how the MA or PhD in English Literature at the University of Buckingham can help you take the next step in your academic journey.

Information for international students

We are happy to consider all international applications and if you are an international student, you may find it useful to visit our international pages for details of entry requirements from your home country.

The University is a UKVI Student Sponsor.

English levels

If English is not your first language, please check our postgraduate English language requirements. If your English levels don’t meet our minimum requirements, you may be interested in applying for our Pre-sessional English Language Foundation Programmes.

Fees and funding

Please visit our website for the latest information relating to our tuition fees, scholarships and bursaries.