Shakespeare - MA

Online University of Birmingham School of English, Drama and Creative Studies

Full time & Part time September MA 1 year full time, 2-3 years part time

FindAMasters summary

Immerse yourself in the world of Shakespeare with our MA programme at The Shakespeare Institute in Stratford-upon-Avon. This unique opportunity allows you to study Shakespeare's works in the heart of his hometown, surrounded by the history and culture that inspired him. Delivered by a dedicated team of Shakespeare scholars, the programme offers a wide range of modules, including criticism, textual studies, and the plays in performance. You can choose to study on-site or via online, distance learning. With access to resources like the Shakespeare Institute's library and collaboration with the Royal Shakespeare Company, this programme will truly bring Shakespeare to life. Entry requirements include a 2:1 Honours degree in English or a related subject, and submission of a written work on Shakespeare. Join us and embark on a journey of discovery in the world of Shakespeare.

About the course

This programme offers an unrivalled opportunity to study Shakespeare in the heart of his hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon.

Delivered by and taught at The Shakespeare Institute, it develops a critical but appreciative understanding of Shakespeare’s contribution to literary and theatrical history, and the place his works occupy in today’s cultural landscape.

It provides you with a rigorous and wide-ranging knowledge of approaches to the study of Shakespeare, with emphasis on criticism, textual studies, Global Shakespeare, the plays in performance, the history of Shakespeare's reception, and Shakespeare and education.

Entry Requirements

Our usual entry requirement for this programme is a 2:1 Honours degree, or equivalent, in English or a related subject.

Please note that all applications are treated on their merits, and we will review your references, personal statement and past experience alongside your qualifications when considering your application.

When you apply for this course, we ask you to submit an example of your written work; this will preferably be an essay on Shakespeare, of about 2,000 words.

Fees

Please see the university website for further information on fees for this course.

Where will I study?

University of Birmingham

We work to provide the best possible teaching, research facilities and support services to ensure our postgraduates reach the peak of their potential.

Videos

Student Profile

Ella May McGrail

Why did you choose Shakespeare at the University of Birmingham?

“Studying Shakespeare in the centre of Stratford-Upon-Avon has been incredible. Being just a short walk away from the RSC theatres and Shakespeare’s Birthplace has really enhanced my studying. I chose the course because of the amazing links UoB has with The RSC. Knowing that on this course I would have the opportunity to be involved with two projects at The RSC theatres made it a very easy decision and I did not apply for anywhere else.”

What is life like as a student at the Shakespeare Institute?

“Student life at the Shakespeare Institute is wonderful. The staff are all extremely talented, knowledgeable and at the same time, friendly and supportive. Being in the centre of Stratford-Upon-Avon really enhances student life as there are often discounted tickets available to students for the RSC, and there are amazing events and lectures being held at the Institute and at the Birthplace Trust, just up the road. One of the most fantastic events I have been to, was when the outstanding actress Harriet Walter came to visit the Birthplace Trust to talk about her book Brutus and Other Heroines. Her lecture was magnificent, and afterwards she answered all of our questions and signed copies of her book. It was an evening I shall never forget.”