English Studies - MA

Pre-1800 classic English literature, or 21st century game changers? This MA allows you to focus on areas that pique your interest most, discover new ones, and sharpen your independent research skills to an advanced level.

Course description

The MA in English Studies offers you the opportunity to focus on the areas of English literary studies that interest you the most, with modules covering literature and language from the Anglo-Saxon period to the present day. You can choose to study literature before 1800, as well as selecting from specialist modules in Victorian literature, Modern literature, creative writing and linguistics.

This course will allow you to deepen your existing knowledge, discover new fields, and acquire the skills to enable independent research at an advanced level. You will be asked to consider how the interpretation of works might be affected by editorial and contextual factors, and you will be introduced to theories of textual editing, book history and material culture.

Your dissertation can be in any period of English literature. You can choose between writing a standard or extended dissertation, making this programme ideal if you are thinking of continuing your studies to doctoral level, or if you would like to pursue a career which emphasises research skills. After consultation with staff, you will submit a proposal for the length of dissertation you would like to take.

Whichever areas of English you choose to focus on during your time here, you will benefit from our excellent teaching, our fantastic library facilities, and high-quality academic support.

Careers and employability

A Masters degree in English Studies is an excellent preparation for a wide range of careers. As well as deepening your knowledge in your chosen areas in English, you will also develop transferable skills, such as research, analysis and presentation skills.

Completing an MA can be the first step in an academic career in Higher or Further Education, while also enhancing your career options outside the field of academia.

One popular career choice is teaching English, either in the UK (having completed a PGCE) or abroad (with a TEFL or TESOL qualification). The fields of publishing, advertising, arts administration, PR, television, the film industry and other media-related jobs are also ideal destinations for English Studies graduates.

Our Career Development Service is here to support you, with advice on interviews, CVs, work experience, volunteering and more. From Freshers’ Week to Graduation and beyond, they are here to help you reach your professional goals.

Visit the English Studies - MA page on the University of Leicester website for more details!