English Literary Studies MA
Campus West, United Kingdom
Master of Arts in English Literary Studies
University of York
English Literature and Literary Studies
Program Overview: MA English Literary Studies at the University of York
The MA English Literary Studies at the University of York invites you to study the cultural meanings and associations of the various styles, genres, and mediums in which English literature is produced. This flexible programme allows you to explore a range of critical and theoretical perspectives on advanced literary study, choosing the modules that interest you the most.
You will develop a deep understanding of how English literature engages with political, social, and aesthetic issues across different historical periods and genres. Taught within the Department of English and Related Literature — one of the UK's largest research centres in modern English — you will benefit from research-led teaching and a vibrant interdisciplinary community.
The programme provides a strong foundation for doctoral research as well as transferable skills for careers in teaching, publishing, arts management, and journalism. You will complete dedicated research training, four option modules, and a substantial 12,000-14,000 word dissertation under expert supervision.
Key Program Highlights
- Study within a top-10 UK research department according to the Times Higher Education ranking of REF 2021, with 98% of research rated 3* and higher.
- Choose from a wide range of option modules spanning medieval to modern literature, including poetry, fiction, drama, film, and postcolonialism.
- Engage with the Humanities Research Centre, a vibrant interdisciplinary hub offering seminars, conferences, and reading groups.
- Part of a Russell Group university awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) for outstanding teaching quality.
Curriculum and Modules
The MA English Literary Studies is structured around 180 credits, combining a core research training module, four option modules of your choice, and a supervised research dissertation. This flexible structure allows you to tailor your studies to your specific literary interests across different periods, genres, and critical approaches.
Postgraduate Life in Practice
20 CreditsThis core module develops your research, writing, and presentation skills. Topics include using library and online research resources, archival methods, academic writing, and strategies for getting work published.
Option Module 1
20 CreditsSelect from a range of modules covering different literary periods and genres, such as medieval literature, Renaissance studies, Romantic-era writing, or modern and contemporary literature.
Option Module 2
20 CreditsChoose a module exploring thematic or interdisciplinary approaches, such as gender and authorship in film and literature, postcolonial studies, or the intersections of literature and politics.
Option Module 3
20 CreditsFurther specialise your studies with modules on topics such as eighteenth-century literary culture, Victorian literature, queer theory and textuality, or poetry across historical periods.
Option Module 4
20 CreditsBroaden your perspective with a fourth option module, which may include an interdisciplinary module from another arts and humanities department at the University of York.
Research Dissertation
80 CreditsProduce a 12,000-14,000 word dissertation examining a topic of your choice in depth. You will receive regular supervision from an expert member of staff and submit the dissertation at the end of your course.
Example Option Modules
Admission Requirements
The MA English Literary Studies welcomes applicants with a strong academic background in English literature or a closely related discipline. The programme values critical thinking, analytical writing, and a genuine passion for literary study. To begin your application, contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance and support throughout the process.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeMinimum 2:2 honours degree (or international equivalent) in English or a related subject
- Non-Standard QualificationsApplications may be considered from candidates with lower qualifications if they have high marks in relevant modules or appropriate professional experience
- Written Work SampleA sample of recent academic written work in English on a literary topic (minimum 1,500 words)
- Personal StatementA statement outlining your academic interests, motivation for the programme, and research areas of interest
- ReferencesTwo academic references from individuals familiar with your academic work and potential
English Language Requirements
- IELTS (Academic)Overall 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component
- TOEFL iBTOverall 87, with minimum scores in each component (contact Uni4Edu for details)
- PTE AcademicOverall 61, with no less than 55 in each component
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of York offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support postgraduate students in the arts and humanities. International and UK students alike may be eligible for merit-based awards and external funding schemes. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on the scholarships most relevant to your profile.
GREAT Scholarships (British Council)
Available to students from eligible countries applying for full-time postgraduate taught master's programmes at the University of York. These scholarships are offered in partnership with the British Council and are awarded based on academic merit and personal statement.
York Graduate Loyalty Discount
If you have successfully completed an undergraduate degree at the University of York, you may be eligible for a tuition fee discount on postgraduate taught programmes. This reward recognises your continued commitment to the York academic community.
Wolfson Postgraduate Scholarships in the Humanities
Funded by the Wolfson Foundation, these scholarships support doctoral research in History, Literature, and Languages at the University of York. They are open to students in the Department of English and Related Literature, among other eligible departments.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MA English Literary Studies at the University of York develop advanced skills in critical analysis, independent research, persuasive writing, and creative problem-solving. These highly transferable skills open doors to a wide range of careers across the arts, media, education, and public sectors.
Potential Career Paths
Industries and Employers for Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
The University of York is a prestigious Russell Group university with a strong global reputation for research and teaching excellence. The Department of English and Related Literature is consistently ranked among the top departments in the UK and globally, and the university holds a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF).
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature | QS World Subject Rankings | #32 |
| Arts and Humanities | QS World Subject Rankings | #75 |
| Arts and Humanities | THE World University Rankings | #54 |
| Research Quality (REF 2021) | Times Higher Education | Top 10 in the UK |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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