ObjectivesOur MA English Literary Research course is designed to provide the guidance offered by a taught MA with the independence and depth of focus offered by a research degree. The course combines elements of taught and research MAs. A core module provides an advanced introduction to research methods and to literary theories. A 25,000 word dissertation allows for in-depth research into writers or topics.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements Normally a good honours degree in a relevant subject. For applicants whose native language is not English, English should have been studied to a high level e.g. an IELTS profile of 7. Specialist courses in English Language are also available in the university's new Language Teaching facilities.
Academic titleMA/PGCert/PGDip English Literary Research
MA: Core module, colloquia and dissertation of 25,000 words. Essay and study proposal of 4,000 words each.
Postgraduate Diploma: Core module, colloquia and extended essay of 10,000 words. Essay and study proposal of 4,000 words each.
Special benefits
Our course is distinguished by its combination of a taught core course with an independently researched 25,000 word dissertation which accounts for two-thirds of the degree's weighting. While it serves as a stand-alone degree, its research focus makes it suitable preparation for doctoral work.
Course content
A core module provides an advanced introduction to literary theories and to research skills. A 4000 word essay examines one or more of these theories in themselves or applied to literary texts.
Symposia allow the student group to work together to develop their research proposals in friendly and supportive peer groups. A 4000 word study proposal outlines students' dissertation plans.
Tutorials between individual students and their supervisors advance work on the dissertation which forms the main focus of the course.
A dissertation of 25,000 words on a literary topic or author(s) of the student's choice (and agreed by us in advance) gives the opportunity to explore the subject in depth. It accounts for two-thirds of the degree mark.