University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The online MA in English combines taught modules with a substantial independent research project or dissertation. Core themes include literary and cultural theory, advanced research skills, close reading and contextual approaches to texts. You can normally choose option modules that reflect your interests across periods and specialisms such as medieval and early modern literature, Romantic and Victorian studies, twentieth- and twenty‑first‑century literature, American literature, postcolonial and world literatures, gender and sexuality studies, and digital humanities.

Teaching is delivered through a mix of recorded lectures, live seminars and online discussion, supplemented by reading lists and individual supervision. Assessment is typically by essays, critical commentaries, presentations and a final dissertation or major project that allows sustained independent research under academic supervision.

Typical module topics

• Contemporary critical theory and approaches to literature
• Research methods in literary studies
• Periods and genres (e.g. Shakespeare and early modernity; Romanticism; modernism and contemporary drama)
• Postcolonial and global Anglophone literatures
• Gender, sexuality and cultural representation
• Digital methods and textual cultures
• Dissertation or major independent project

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a good undergraduate degree in English or a related humanities subject. Equivalent qualifications, relevant professional experience and evidence of readiness for postgraduate study are also considered. You will be asked to submit a personal statement outlining your reasons for study, a short writing sample or essay, and academic references.

International applicants may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent qualification; alternative evidence of English competence and prior study in English may also be acceptable. Specific entry requirements can vary by route, so applicants should check the programme pages or contact admissions advisers for personalised guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates from the MA in English pursue a wide range of careers where advanced analytical, research and written communication skills are valued. Typical destinations include secondary and further education, academic research and progression to doctoral study, publishing and editorial roles, journalism, marketing and public relations, copywriting and content strategy, libraries and heritage sectors, and roles in arts policy and cultural organisations.

The programme’s emphasis on research skills, critical thinking and project management also suits those looking to move into roles in the cultural and creative industries, charities, or organisations that require high-level writing and interpretation of complex materials.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham has a long-established tradition in literary scholarship and offers postgraduate supervision across a broad range of English studies specialisms. The online MA draws on the research strengths of the School of English, ensuring you are taught and supervised by active researchers and experienced teachers.

The online delivery combines the University’s virtual learning environment with structured tutor support, interactive seminars and extensive electronic library resources, allowing distance learners to access teaching and collections used by on-campus students. The programme is designed for flexibility, enabling you to fit study around professional and personal commitments while benefiting from the University’s academic expertise and alumni network.