University of Reading

What you'll study

The MA in English Literature combines taught modules with independent research so you can study periods and approaches from medieval to contemporary literature. Teaching typically includes a mix of lectures, seminar discussion, and one-to-one supervision for the dissertation.

• Core research and skills training: methods of literary research, advanced critical theory, and approaches to textual and archival work that prepare you for the dissertation or further research.
• Period and genre modules: options commonly cover Romanticism, Victorian literature, modernism and twentieth-century literature, contemporary fiction and poetry, and medieval and early modern writing.
• Thematic and interdisciplinary modules: topics often include gender and sexuality in literature, colonial and postcolonial studies, book history and print culture, literature and philosophy, and adaptations across media.
• Optional research-led seminars: small-group seminars focused on specialist areas such as eighteenth-century studies, American literature, critical theory, or digital humanities approaches to literary texts.
• Dissertation: a substantial independent research project supervised by a member of staff, typically producing an extended essay that demonstrates original engagement with primary texts and critical scholarship.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree in English Literature or a closely related humanities subject. Applicants with strong professional experience in a related field, or with alternative qualifications, may also be considered.

• Academic qualification: an upper second-class (2:1) UK honours degree or an international equivalent is the usual requirement; a lower second-class (2:2) may be accepted in some cases together with relevant experience or evidence of postgraduate potential.
• English language: if English is not your first language, a recognised qualification demonstrating a high level of academic English is required; typical departmental expectations reflect standard postgraduate requirements.
• Supporting materials: a personal statement outlining your interests and preparation for postgraduate study, academic references, and samples of written work or a research proposal where requested.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in English Literature go on to a wide range of careers that draw on strong critical thinking, research and communication skills. The programme is a strong foundation for doctoral research.

• Academic and research careers, including progression to PhD study.
• Publishing, editorial work and literary agency roles.
• Teaching and education (many graduates combine the MA with teacher training such as a PGCE to teach in schools).
• Libraries, archives, museums and cultural heritage organisations, particularly where textual and archival skills are valued.
• Journalism, communications, public relations and roles in arts administration.
• Policy and public sector roles that require advanced written and analytical skills.

Why study at University of Reading

The University of Reading offers a research-active literature department with strengths across historical periods and interdisciplinary approaches. Small-group teaching and regular supervision ensure close engagement with staff whose research informs the curriculum.

• Research-led teaching: you learn from staff active in specialist fields—such as eighteenth-century studies, Romantic and Victorian studies, modern and contemporary literature, and book history—so the course reflects current scholarship.
• Resources and collections: access to the university's library holdings and special collections supports archival and textual research; staff can advise on using these resources for dissertation work.
• Professional development: the programme emphasises transferable skills—research design, academic writing, presentation and project management—valuable in both academic and non-academic careers.
• Location and community: Reading's campus provides a focused study environment with good transport links to London and other cultural centres, alongside a supportive postgraduate community and events programme.