Keele University

What you'll study

The MA in English Literatures combines core training in research methods with flexible option modules and a substantial dissertation. You will study advanced topics in literary history and theory, exploring areas such as early modern literature, eighteenth‑ and nineteenth‑century fiction, modern and contemporary literature, poetry, drama, and interdisciplinary approaches including gender studies, postcolonial studies and ecocriticism.

• Research Methods in Literary Studies – approaches to archival research, critical theory, textual editing, and historiography.
• Period and Genre Modules – semester‑long modules that may cover subjects such as Shakespeare and his contemporaries, Victorian narrative, modernist experiments, and contemporary fiction and poetry.
• Theory and Critical Practice – focused work on literary theory, cultural theory, and strategies of literary interpretation.
• Optional Seminars – topical seminars that reflect staff expertise and current research, for example postcolonial writing, eco‑criticism, digital humanities, or adaptations.
• Dissertation – a supervised research project (typically substantial in length) that allows you to develop independent research skills and produce an extended piece of original scholarship.

Teaching methods include seminars, workshops, one‑to‑one supervision for the dissertation, and opportunities for conference‑style presentations. Assessment is by essays, critical commentaries, research projects and the dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a good honours degree (UK 2:1 or international equivalent) in English, English Literature, or a closely related humanities subject. Applicants with a 2:2 and substantial relevant postgraduate or professional experience may be considered on an individual basis.

International applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language requirements; typical offers ask for a recognised qualification demonstrating the ability to study at postgraduate level in English. Applicants will submit an academic transcript, a personal statement outlining research interests, and one or two academic references. Those proposing research projects are encouraged to contact potential supervisors in advance.

Career prospects

Graduates from the MA in English Literatures move into a wide range of careers that value critical thinking, research and communication skills. Common destinations include:

• Doctoral study and academic research leading to careers in higher education
• Secondary and further education teaching (often following a postgraduate teaching qualification)
• Publishing, editing and literary journalism
• Cultural heritage, museums and archives
• Communications, marketing, public relations and policy roles in the public and private sectors
• Creative industries, arts administration and freelance writing

Keele's careers service and the School provide support with CVs, interview preparation and networking to help translate literary training into professional roles.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a supportive campus environment with strengths in interdisciplinary research, allowing English students to engage with colleagues in history, philosophy, politics and cultural studies. The School of Humanities combines small‑group teaching with close supervision, so you benefit from direct contact with research‑active staff and opportunities to participate in seminars, reading groups and colloquia.

The university's library and special collections support advanced study and dissertation work, and there are opportunities to gain practical experience through publishing student journals, contributing to public events, and using the university's careers and employability services. Keele's campus community and pastoral support make it well suited to students seeking a focused, research‑led MA in English Literatures.