Skip to main content
Qualification type
MA

English Literature

Study mode
Full-time
Part-time
Duration
12 months
24 months
Start date and application deadlines
Start date
September 2025
Apply by:
Starts on:

We've set the country or region your qualifications are from as United Kingdom.

How to apply
UK students

Apply for this course by:

There is no fee to apply for our courses.

What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions

Our application process

  1. Sign into the University of Liverpool Application Portal and start your application
  2. Submit your application
  3. We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  4. Track the progress of your application using the Postgraduate Application Tracker (we'll send you a link to the tracker)
  5. We'll email you when a decision has been made
  6. If you've been made an offer, you can then accept or decline it using the Postgraduate Application Tracker.

Already a University of Liverpool student?

Apply faster with the quick apply form for current University of Liverpool students.

Need help applying?

Our how to apply pages provide further information about applying online for our taught postgraduate courses.

If you are unable to apply via our online form, or need further support, please contact the postgraduate enquiries team.

International students

Apply for this course by:

There is no fee to apply for our courses. However, once you’ve been made an offer to study with us you are required to pay a fee deposit.

What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Evidence of English Language proficiency (EU and international applicants only)
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions.

Our application process

  1. Sign into the University of Liverpool Application Portal and start your application
  2. Submit your application
  3. We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  4. Track the progress of your application using the Postgraduate Application Tracker (we'll send you a link to the tracker)
  5. We'll email you when a decision has been made
  6. If you've been made an offer, you can then accept or decline it using the Postgraduate Application Tracker.

Already a University of Liverpool student?

Apply faster with the quick apply form for current University of Liverpool students.

Need help applying?

We provide further information about applying online.

If you are unable to apply via our online form, or need further support, please contact the postgraduate enquiries team.

Combine this subject

With a combined degree, you can study two subjects as part of the same degree programme.

  • Choose from 30 subjects and over 300 combinations
  • Choose joint or major minor subjects
  • Adjust the weight of your subjects at the end of your first year
  • Same number of credits as single honours students
  • Same classes as single honours students
  • Appeal to a wide range of employers

Explore combined degrees for English courses

Let's stay in touch

Want to hear updates from us? Fill out the form below to receive invites to future events and information about studying at the University of Liverpool, through the communications channels selected. Following submission, you can opt out by contacting our enquiries team.

Complete form

Download a course leaflet

Your course leaflet download should begin automatically but if not, click to download. If you would like to keep up to date with the latest events from the University if Liverpool, complete the form below.

Complete form

Change country or region

We’re currently showing entry requirements and other information for applicants with qualifications from United Kingdom.

Please select from our list of commonly chosen countries below or choose your own.

If your country or region isn’t listed here, please contact us with any questions about studying with us.

Postgraduate Online Open Week

Meet us online from Monday 24 – Friday 28 March to discover more about master’s study at Liverpool.

About this course

Studying for an English Literature MA at Liverpool allows you to advance your literary scholarship and pursue areas of interest across a wide variety of genres and historical periods.


Introduction

You will have the opportunity to study a wide range of literary disciplines, genres and themes. Our general pathway offers a flexible and bespoke route of study, allowing you to take modules from across other MA English Literature pathways, such as Renaissance and Eighteenth Century, Victorian, Modern and Contemporary, and Science Fiction.

We look to equip our students with the knowledge and confidence to reflect critically and creatively on the practices, contexts and real-world applications of literary study.

You’ll acquire the necessary research skills to make effective, critical interventions in the study of English Literature. You will be able to participate in our lively research culture through attending regular seminars and lectures by guest speakers, as well as our own staff and students.

You will be encouraged to take a global perspective on changing literary, cultural and political landscapes, and invited to explore current critical and theoretical debates.

You’ll be taught by staff including award-winning writers and four BBC ‘New Generation Thinkers’, who are experts in their respective fields.

English Literature students graduate with sought-after skills that apply to a wide range of careers, and a significant number of MA graduates also continue their studies to PhD level.


Who is this course for?

This master’s is suitable for English Literature graduates who want to explore this subject further across a number of literary time periods.


What you'll learn

  • Detailed literary knowledge across a variety of genres
  • Effective and critical research skills
  • How to present and communicate clearly for advanced study
  • Textual analysis from multiple perspectives
  • How to debate, argue and persuade
  • Continued independent learning and critical thinking
Back to top

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Semester one

In addition to the three compulsory modules, students are required to take at least 60 credits. You must also take at least one of the following core modules:

  • Editing the Early Modern (ENGL752)
  • Genre Definitions (ENGL780)
  • The Modern (ENGL770)
  • Yore Victorians (ENGL760)

Semester two

In semester two, you must take at least one of the following core modules:

  • Fictions of Technology (ENGL782)
  • Literature, Slavery and Empire (ENGL750)
  • Reading Victorians (ENGL762)
  • The Contemporary (ENGL772)

Final project

You will continue to work on and complete your dissertation over the summer.

Modules

Compulsory modules Credits
DISSERTATION (ENGL702) 60

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Teaching and assessment

How you'll learn

Teaching on the MA in English Literature is delivered through a combination of seminars and tutorials held on campus. Depending on which module options you choose, there may be lectures and separate seminar sessions scheduled, but all classes will take place on campus in person. Class sizes for master’s programmes in the Department of English tend to be small, and a typical class in English will include between eight to ten students.

How you're assessed

On the English MA you will be assessed by a combination of formative and summative coursework. This will take a number of different forms, including essays, essay plans, research proposals, and a dissertation. In addition, students will be assessed by presentations in certain modules. Other assessment formats may apply also depending on the options modules taken.

Liverpool Hallmarks

We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Back to top

Your experience

The Department of English, based in the School of the Arts, is committed to small group teaching and encouraging a more rewarding learning experience, with ideas shared and explored amongst peers and tutors. You’ll have access to extensive library facilities, special collections and Liverpool’s renowned museums, libraries and galleries.

Explore where you'll study

The front of the English departmental building found on Abercromby square.
English Department Building
Small group teaching
Small group teaching
Students using the archives
Students using the archives
Students relaxing on the grass in Abercromby Square
Abercromby Square
Students in a lecture
Students in a lecture
Cyclist passing the Liverpool Guild of Students
Liverpool Guild of Students
Watch on Panopto: Inside English

Inside English

What’s it like to Study English at Liverpool? A conversation between Alex Carabine and Dr Natalie Hanna.

Watch on Panopto: English Literature MA

English Literature MA

Dr David Hering, Programme Lead for the English Literature MA gives an overview of the course.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

An exciting place to study English

  • The Department of English is in the top 100 English Language and Literature departments in the world according to QS Top Universities rankings
  • We are internationally renowned for advancing the study of language, literature, and creative writing and have a strong research ethos
  • Our programmes offer opportunities to study creative writing and literature from a wide range of periods, as well as a range of approaches to understanding the way in which the English language works
  • We have a reputation for radical thinking, as exemplified by our success rate in the BBC and Arts and Humanities Council’s ‘New Generation Thinkers’ scheme. In total, five members our academic staff have been selected since the scheme was established in 2010
  • We are committed to small group teaching. This encourages a more rewarding learning experience, where ideas are shared and explored with peers and tutors
  • Ranked 10th in sector for research impact classified as outstanding (4*) (REF 2021)
  • We are host to Europe’s largest collection of science fiction materials which includes the John Wyndham Archive and home to the annual Liverpool Literary Festival.
Photo of Alex Carabine

The staff are the best thing about the English department. They’re not only incredibly knowledgeable about their fields, but they are also enthusiastic, encouraging and take a genuine interest in their students’ work.

Alex Carabine, BA (Hons) English Literature 2018, MA English 2019
Two students chatting while walking through campus.

Chat with our students

Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.

Back to top

Careers and employability

The MA in English Literature provides students with rigorous academic training in the broad interdisciplinary field of literary history, theory and culture. The professional skills that students will develop upon completion of the programme will prepare them well for a wide range of potential employment areas.

Our English degree programmes are valued by employers who recognise the skills our students develop, including teamwork, project design, critical thinking, proficiency in text analysis and communication and presentation skills.

The MA is particularly suitable for graduates looking to pursue careers in:

  • The arts
  • Culture, creative and heritage sectors
  • Journalism
  • Copywriting
  • Management in arts and culture organisations
  • Teaching.

If you wish to continue your academic studies, you will find a supportive and nurturing research environment that prepares you well for doctoral-level research activities. Career pathways that follow this route include employment in higher education (teaching and/or research), or teaching at secondary and further education levels.

89% of University of Liverpool postgraduate students go on to highly skilled employment within 15 months after graduation.

(Graduate Outcomes survey, 2019-20)


Career support from day one to graduation and beyond

Career planning

Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.

From education to employment

We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.

Networking events

You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.

Back to top

My qualifications are from United Kingdom.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)

Full-time place, per year - £11,700
Part-time place, per year - £5,850

International fees

Full-time place, per year - £24,100
Part-time place, per year - £12,050

Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.

If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies..


Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.


Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.

John Lennon Memorial Scholarship

If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.

Postgraduate Opportunity Bursary

If you’re a UK University of Liverpool graduate joining a master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive £3,000 off your tuition fees. You must have graduated in the last two years and received a widening access scholarship during your undergraduate studies.

Sport Liverpool Performance Programme

Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.

Back to top

My qualifications are from United Kingdom.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

Qualification Details
Postgraduate entry requirements

We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in English studies or a closely related subject.

Applicants will be asked to submit a sample of written work (e.g. an essay from your undergraduate studies) as part of the application process. You will be contacted in regard to this once you have submitted your application.

International qualifications

If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MA, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool.


English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

Qualification Details
IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test 120 overall, with no component below 105
Pearson PTE Academic 61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic 70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC C6 or above

Pre-sessional English

Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?

The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.

Pre-sessional English in detail

If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.

Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.

Your most recent IELTS score Pre-sessional English course length On campus or online
6.0 overall, with no component below 6.0 6 weeks On campus
6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 10 weeks On campus and online options available
6.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 12 weeks On campus and online options available
5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 20 weeks On campus
5.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.0, and no component below 4.5 30 weeks On campus
4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 40 weeks On campus

If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.

Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.


Back to top
Entry requirements: which qualifications do you need?

More about life in Liverpool

Discover more about the city and University.

Victoria Gallery & Museum

Why study at Liverpool?

Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.

Postgraduate students walking through the campus.

Accommodation

To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.

Image of the outside of the Management School building

Fees and Finance

Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.


Contact us

Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.

Back to top

Last updated 28 February 2025 / / Programme terms and conditions

Changes to English Literature MA

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

28 February 2025: MA English Literature and pathways

Modules lists update to include a compulsory Dissertation Preparation module (ENGL701) and additional optional modules for the specialist pathways.

25 October 2024: English postgraduate taught programmes – contact details updated

Course contact details updated for all English postgraduate taught programmes.

23 March 2023: New postgraduate taught course pages

New course pages launched.