English and American Literature

Entry requirements

A first or second class honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject.

If you do not have a 2.1, or your degree isn’t in English or another relevant subject then please include a piece of written work submitted as part of your previous university studies which reflects analysis of a text or some other cultural production. If you are not from an English Literature studies background or do not have a piece of work you would consider analytical, please write a 1000-1500 word piece analysing a passage of poetry or prose of your choice, looking at features that may include language, tone, themes, or some other critical context fitted to the passage. Use of generative AI is strictly prohibited for this task and will result in immediate rejection of your application.

All applicants are considered on an individual basis and additional qualifications, professional qualifications and relevant experience may also be taken into account when considering applications.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Immerse yourself in a range of literatures and cultures from Britain to the Americas and across the world. You will study literary histories from the birth of the novel to our contemporary moment and take opportunities to think comparatively across periods and places.

You will study how narratives and concepts circulate globally, how different literary forms evolve over time, and how text and image relate to one another in cultural history.

There are opportunities to explore in depth the literature and culture of the Cold War, the development of postcolonial writing, and the importance of literature in political activism.

Join an intellectual community of motivated, curious students to pursue the questions that are important to you. Learn through debate and dialogue in small group seminars, participate in one-to-one supervisions, attend fascinating lectures, deliver research presentations and read independently.

You will be guided throughout by our expert academic staff and benefit from their world-leading research in literature and culture from the eighteenth century to the present, including American Studies and Global Modernisms.

As a Master’s student, you’ll have the freedom to follow your interests and conduct your own independent research, leading to a dissertation. You will learn how to plan and deliver a large-scale project, acquiring writing, organization and research skills that will prepare you for your future career or for a PhD.

Information for international students

Please see our International Student website for entry requirements by country and other relevant information. Please note that international fee-paying students cannot undertake a part-time programme due to visa restrictions.

English language entry requirements

The University requires all non-native speakers of English to reach a minimum standard of proficiency in written and spoken English before beginning a postgraduate degree. Certain subjects require a higher level.

For detailed information see our English language requirements web pages.

Need help with English?

Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes through Kent International Pathways.

Fees and funding

For further information about funding, including scholarships, please visit our funding web pages.