Queen's University Belfast United Kingdom

English - Poetry MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

If you are passionate about the art and craft of poetry, the MA in English - Poetry at Queen's University Belfast offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant literary tradition. Building on the university's world-renowned reputation for poetry, famously associated with Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney, this postgraduate programme is designed for students eager to explore both the critical analysis and creative practice of poetry. You will engage deeply with poetic form, Irish poetry, and the contemporary poetry collection, developing a sophisticated understanding of the discipline.

This full-time, on-campus Master's degree is structured across one year, beginning with compulsory modules like 'Reading and Writing Poetry' and 'Form in Poetry'. You will then select optional modules to tailor your studies before undertaking a significant dissertation, which can be a 15,000-word thesis or a 35-40 page poetry portfolio. Throughout your studies, you will benefit from weekly workshops and seminars, fostering a collaborative environment. You will graduate with advanced critical and creative skills, prepared for careers in publishing, arts administration, education, or further academic research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA in English - Poetry program offers a comprehensive exploration of poetic forms and practices. Students will engage in both the reading and writing of poetry, delving into established structures and contemporary approaches. The curriculum includes modules on the poetry collection, Irish poetry, and the practicalities of the poetry workshop, allowing for specialized study in areas of interest.

1 Semester One Modules:

Reading and Writing Poetry Compulsory
Form in Poetry Compulsory

2 Semester Two Modules (Indicative):

The Poetry Collection Compulsory
Irish Poetry Optional
The Poetry Workshop Optional
Love Poetry Optional
Fulbright Special Option (tbc) Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

26% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,974.00 USD 31,089.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 22,974.00 USD 31,089.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 785.00 - USD 1,416.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 7,249.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 4,833.00
Estimated Total USD 9,667.00 - USD 15,304.00

Living cost estimates are based on Belfast Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

89%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesBroadcasting & TelevisionDigital MarketingDigital Media & Online PublishingLive Events & ConcertsMedia Research & AnalyticsPhotojournalism & Visual MediaPublic Broadcasting & DocumentarySocial Media & Content StrategyTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Bauer Media Group

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Why Study English - Poetry MA at Queen's University Belfast

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Queen's University Belfast in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about English - Poetry MA at Queen's University Belfast

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks for degree courses. No separate work permit is necessary.

What English language score do I need for this course?

The English test requirements include a Duolingo overall score of 120, TOEFL overall score of 90, IELTS overall score of 6.5, or PTE overall score of 69. Meeting these scores ensures you're adequately prepared for the course.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as poets, editors, literary critics, teachers, or content writers.

What will I actually study in this course?

Poetry is, quite simply, the activity for which Queen’s University is best known around the world. Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney was both a student and lecturer here at Queen’s, and other famous poet-alumni of the university include Ciaran Carson, Paul Muldoon and Medbh McGuckian. Heaney was a founding member of the famous ‘Belfast Group’ in the 1960s, a forum in which young poets came together with critics to discuss their work and the craft of good poetry more generally. The fruitful

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The next intake for the English - Poetry MA program is in September. Make sure to check the application deadlines to ensure your submission is timely.
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