English Literature and Language

Entry requirements

For MPhil

• First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree or an approved equivalent award

or

• Research or professional experience which has resulted in appropriate evidence of achievement

For PhD

• Postgraduate Masters Degree in a discipline which is appropriate to the proposed programme of study

or

• First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree or equivalent award in an appropriate discipline

or

• Research or professional experience at postgraduate level which has resulted in published work, written reports or other appropriate evidence of achievement

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

We welcome applications to undertake research towards MPhil and PhD degrees in English Literature and Language.

We offer students either an MPhil (Master of Philosophy) in English Literature and Language or PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in English Literature and Language.

Key insights into a research degree in English Literature and Language

• Supervision by experienced researchers in a wide range of literary fields, including early modern drama, Romantic and Victorian literature, and contemporary fiction.
• Opportunities to pursue research in areas such as Shakespeare studies, children’s literature, literature and the environment, and creative writing.
• Tailored supervision and support through the Researcher Development Programme (RDP)
• Access to specialist resources including the University’s virtual learning environment, state-of-the-art library, and the International Forum for Research in Children’s Literature.

The English Literature and Language MPhil and PhD programmes at the University of Worcester support a diverse range of research approaches, including theoretical, historical, and practice-based investigations. The programmes foster a research culture that is socially and culturally engaged, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary scholarship.

Careers

Career benefits of pursuing a PhD or MPhil in English Literature and Language at the University of Worcester:

• Academic and research leadership:
  Develop deep expertise in literary fields such as Shakespeare studies, Romantic and Victorian literature, and contemporary fiction, preparing you for roles in academia, publishing, and cultural institutions.
• Creative and critical versatility:
  Engage in both theoretical and practice-based research, including creative writing with a critical component, enhancing your profile for careers in writing, editing, and literary consultancy.
• Professional development and research training:
  Benefit from structured support through the Researcher Development Programme and supervision by experienced scholars, equipping you with advanced research and analytical skills.
• Access to specialist resources and networks:
  Utilise facilities such as the International Forum for Research in Children’s Literature, the Early Modern Research Group, and the Arts and Health Research Group to build your scholarly and professional network.
• Flexible study options for career integration:
  Choose full-time or part-time pathways that support your professional commitments while advancing your research and career goals.
• Culturally engaged and interdisciplinary research:
  Explore themes such as literature and the environment, health and ability, and spoken word traditions, positioning yourself to contribute meaningfully to public discourse and cultural innovation.

Information for international students

International applicants will be required to demonstrate that they have the appropriate level of written and spoken English.

For MPhil/PhD this is an IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum score of 6.0 in every component.