University of Wales, Swansea

Programme overview

The MA in English Literature at Swansea develops advanced research and critical-writing skills while encouraging interdisciplinary approaches that link literature to history, philosophy, politics and visual culture. The course emphasises research specialisation and independence, culminating in an individual dissertation supervised by an expert member of staff. Teaching draws on staff strengths in Welsh Writing, Gothic Literature, Medieval Literature, Neo-Victorian Literature, Modernism, Early Modern Literature, Speculative Fiction and a range of literary theories.

What you'll study

The programme offers a mix of taught research training, focused research topics and a substantial dissertation. In the first semester you study advanced research topics including the history of literary criticism, archival research, and intersections of research and activism, together with practical training such as writing abstracts and presenting research. You also undertake a special research topic chosen with staff guidance. In the second semester you take a further research topic and the Research Practice module, which prepares you to develop and plan your dissertation. The MA concludes with an independent dissertation project on a topic of your choice, supervised by an academic specialist.

Entry requirements

Swansea considers applicants on their own merits and welcomes candidates with a wide range of qualifications. The programme page indicates applicants are assessed individually; prospective students should consult the university for exact academic and English language requirements relevant to their circumstances.

Career prospects

The degree aims to enhance skills valued across multiple sectors: clear oral and written communication, critical analysis, research design and presentation. Graduates progress into areas including teaching, publishing, writing, arts and creative industries, charities and non-profits, marketing, PR and advertising, cultural heritage, libraries and archives, public policy and further academic study such as PhD research.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The programme page links to university information on tuition fees, funding and scholarships. Applicants should review Swansea University scholarship pages and external postgraduate funding sources, and contact the School of Culture and Communication for advice on programme-specific financial support and potential additional costs.