Entry requirements for taught degrees (MA)

Normally we would expect you to have an upper second class (2.1) Honours BA degree in English language or literature, or its equivalent.

You will be asked to provide a personal statement as part of your application; please note that this should be of up to 500 words and should include an explanation of why you have chosen a particular course.

You will usually also be asked to submit one or more samples of your critical writing - ideally, essays or papers that you have submitted as part of your earlier degree course.

Entry requirements for research degrees (PhD)

Usually we ask for an upper second class (2.1) Honours BA degree or equivalent in English, and a relevant MA degree qualification.

In addition to the personal statement (see above), your application should also include a detailed research proposal. Candidates are encouraged to approach the School with an outline proposal for consideration by potential supervisors before formal application. Guidelines on writing a research proposal can be downloaded below or can be provided on request from the School’s Postgraduate Administrator.

How to write a research proposal

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, you will be asked to provide evidence of a recent English language qualification.  We usually require an overall IELTS score of 6.5 or above; we will also accept TOEFL at 575/90 or above.

Information on the University's English language requirements can be found via the Admissions Office website (PDF).

Tuition fees

The Finance Office website contains fees information for Home/EU and International (non-EU) students.

How to apply

You can apply for a place on one of the School's campus-based postgraduate courses either online or by post.