Explore English literature in-depth with a master’s degree at the University of Southampton.
Our course gives you the opportunity to pursue literary topics and genres from a wide selection of authors and periods, including:
- Shakespeare
- Jane Austen
- Holocaust literature
- Victorian print culture
- literature and law
On completion of the course, you’ll be ready for careers in teaching, publishing and arts administration.
You’ll get the chance to carry out advanced-level research and independent critical thinking, and to make effective use of archives, manuscripts, and research libraries. We'll help you examine how literature shapes the public understanding of diverse fields such as:
- climate change
- economics
- medicine
- religion
We offer a flexible module structure which is designed to give you an advanced understanding of cultural analysis, textual interpretation and theoretical method. You can specialise with one of 4 subject-specific pathways, or take a more general approach by choosing modules from each pathway.
The information on this page refers to the general pathway.
Across all pathways, you’ll explore the interrelations of text, theory and culture across the field of English literary and cultural studies. We’ll work with you to:
- develop your knowledge of critical and research methods
- raise your awareness of the historical and critical reception of literature in various periods
- explore the role of literature in a contested cultural framework
Flexible study
If you prefer, you can apply to study this course as:
- a part-time master's - study the same course content over 2 or more years
Your modules and fees may vary if you choose a different study option.
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
Course lead
Your course leader is Kevin Brazil, Associate Professor of English Literature. Kevin has published widely on contemporary literature, visual art, and queer writing. Visit Professor Brazil's staff profile to learn more about his work.
Related pathways
You can apply for one of the following pathways, or choose modules from each of them: