English Literature MA

Whether undertaken for the continued love of literature, or for personal or professional development, studying our MA English Literature will help you gain a more confident critical voice, and advanced analytical and research skills.

Stories powerfully shape our experiences and identities in the modern world. Books and films instruct us about how the voices of the past inform the present and the future. They tell us about politics, gender, sexuality and race, our landscape, environment and the digital. Stories are told about places and people, but also show how modern myths are made. How can we read such stories critically? 

English Literature at Northumbria gives you the key skills to navigate and offer a critique of narrative and storytelling. How is literature politicised? How are classic texts adapted for the contemporary moment? Literature’s continued relevance is everywhere. Our course gives you the skills to understand the importance of literature: who has the authority to influence, and with what motives.

Applicants should normally have:

A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree in English, or a related discipline.

English language requirements:

International applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 with 5.5 in each component (or approved equivalent*).

On completion of the MA, you will have improved your employability through enhancing your critical skills and attitudes, presentation skills, and reflective and evaluative abilities. You will be self-motivating, be capable of making decisions in complex situations, and possess a thirst for independent learning. In addition to these personal skills, you will have demonstrated a critical awareness of the current research and scholarship within your discipline, facilitating your ability to interpret knowledge in a variety of professional fields.

The MA builds on undergraduate skills, distinguished by the level of intensity, complexity, and density of study.  Advanced communication skills and media literacy must be demonstrated along with exceptional ability for time management, ethical and professional understanding, and highly developed research and inquiry skills.