University of Bristol United Kingdom

MA English Literature

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

The MA English Literature at the University of Bristol invites you to deepen your engagement with literary texts and develop the advanced research skills crucial for postgraduate study and beyond. This programme is ideal for those with a passion for literary analysis and a desire to explore diverse historical periods and critical approaches, from Renaissance literature to contemporary global narratives. You will be immersed in a vibrant academic community, guided by faculty renowned for their research, and encouraged to critically examine the power and influence of literature across different contexts.

This full-time, on-campus Masters degree is studied over one year, featuring a core unit in Introduction to Literary Research and a substantial dissertation. You will select pathway units from a wide range of options, including Modernism, the Gothic, and Literatures of the Global South, allowing you to tailor your studies. Through close engagement with primary texts and critical theory, you will develop your analytical, argumentative, and writing skills. You will graduate with the intellectual rigour and specialist knowledge to pursue careers in academia, publishing, heritage, or other fields requiring sophisticated critical thinking.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA in English Literature program offers a comprehensive exploration of literary works across various periods and genres. Students will engage in foundational literary research and undertake a significant dissertation project. The curriculum includes mandatory modules alongside a wide array of optional units, allowing for specialization in areas such as Modernism, Renaissance literature, Romantic poetry, contemporary works, and diverse global literatures.

1 Year 1 (2025/26)

Introduction to literary research Mandatory
Dissertation Mandatory
Modernism, Experimentation and Form Optional
Renaissance Literature: Texts and Contexts Optional
Romantic Poetry and Poetics Optional
Literature and the Environment: Diverse Perspectives Optional
Hamlet: Text and Interpretation Optional
Literature 1940-1970: Writing After War, After Modernism Optional
Reimagining Shakespeare Optional
Victorian Literature and Place Optional
Contemporary Literature Optional
The Gothic Optional
Writing in the Elements: Earth, Air, Fire, Water, Uranium Optional
Animal Planet: Humans and other animals in modernity Optional
Literatures of the Global South and its Diasporas Optional
Supervised Individual Study Optional
Queer Lives Optional
Confronting the Modern in World Literature Optional
Personal Option Unit 2 Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 39,604.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 39,604.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,285.00 - USD 2,164.00
Food & Groceries USD 1,048.00 - USD 1,402.00
Transport USD 355.00 - USD 693.00
Utilities & Bills USD 10,471.00 - USD 13,967.00
Estimated Total USD 11,874.00 - USD 16,062.00

Living cost estimates are based on Clifton campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising TechnologyEducational Support ServicesEvent & Experiential MarketingMedia Planning & BuyingMusic & Performing ArtsNetworking & Internet ServicesPerformance & Growth MarketingPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalPrivate Security & Risk ManagementTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Deloitte

EY

Epigram

University of Exeter

University of Oxford

sony interactive entertainment

Why Study MA English Literature at University of Bristol

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Bristol 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 MA English Literature at University of Bristol

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can submit TOEFL scores with specific minimums, IELTS scores of at least 7, or PTE scores also meeting the thresholds. Make sure to check all components needed for your chosen test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various careers such as Editor, Teacher, Researcher, Literary Critic, or Publisher.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MA program focuses on enhancing your skills in literary research while offering specializations like Shakespeare and Early Modern Literature and Literature and the Environment. You'll also engage with the wider academic community of the department and university.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA in English Literature has an intake in September each year. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your spot.
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