English Literature - MA
2025/26 Full-time Postgraduate course
Award:
Master of Arts
Faculty:
Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
School:
School of Arts and Humanities
Campus:
Coleraine campus
Start dates:
September 2025
January 2026
If you love reading and writing and want to develop your skills and passion for both, join us!
Our course allows you to focus either on literature or creative writing practice. Whether you are a recent graduate, a budding creative writer, a teacher keen to upskill, or returning to education for your own personal development, the variety and breadth of this programme will appeal to you. We welcome students with degrees in cognate subjects other than English.
Pioneering research shapes our teaching. You will benefit from the extensive knowledge and expertise of our academic team. Exploration of critical theory and current literary debates will introduce you to how issues such as gender, ecology and psychoanalysis inform the way we read literary texts. A focus on Irish writing in English gives the course a distinctive regional identity, and the creative writing pathway offers you the opportunity to develop individual writing projects under the guidance of published writers. Throughout the course you will be able to hone your research and critical abilities, as well as polish key transferable practical skills.
The MA in English Literature is the perfect route towards further study and research at PhD level, as well as providing a bridge to new and enhanced career opportunities. Graduates have been successful in securing a variety of positions within teaching, publishing, freelance journalism and creative writing, librarianship, the media, public relations and advertising.
We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.
Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:
For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.
For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.
We look forward to hearing from you.
In this section
The first part of the course introduces you to the fundamentals of studying at postgraduate level. Following this, you'll begin to focus your research through more intense study of your chosen specialist area, while continuing to develop your aptitudes and strengths as a postgraduate student. The final component of the degree is an individual project: a dissertation or creative writing piece, closely supervised by a member of staff with expertise in your chosen topic. Throughout the course you will benefit from teaching by a research-active course team with a wide and diverse range of individual specialisms.
Year1
Semester 1
ENG809 Critical Theory and Research MethodsC
ENG810 Debates in Modern English Literary StudiesC
Semester 2
ENG812 Themes in Irish Writing In English C
ENG701 Penned in the Margins: Writing, Identity, Alterity C
Semester 3
ENG700 Creative Writing Project O
ENG814 DissertationO
Start dates: September, January
Duration: Full time: One calendar year September 2025 - September 2026
Part time: Two and a half calendar years (five semesters) e.g. September 2025 - January 2027
Full Time: Two modules per semester. Each taught module involves one three-hour lecture/seminar meeting per week for twelve consecutive weeks. Taught modules are scheduled for evenings 5.15-8.00pm. Independent study modules involve an equivalent number of study hours, with contact hours arranged with supervisory staff.
Part Time: One module per semester. Each taught module involves one three-hour lecture/seminar meeting per week for twelve consecutive weeks. Taught modules are scheduled for evenings 5.15-8.00pm. Independent study modules involve an equivalent number of study hours, with contact hours arranged with supervisory staff.
Each module on the MA in English Literature is assessed by 100% coursework. Teaching is delivered through lectures, seminar debate, creative writing workshops, and one-to-one sessions with individual tutors and project supervisors. In the case of the creative writing modules, visiting professional writers give talks and lead some of the workshops. Individual study and creative writing projects are given progressive feedback, ensuring that you have the opportunity to reflect on and refine your essays and creative projects in light of tutor guidance. Course materials are available online, offering you the flexibility to study at your own pace, any place and time.
The content for each course is summarised on the relevant course page, along with an overview of the modules that make up the course.
Each course is approved by the University and meets the expectations of:
As part of your course induction, you will be provided with details of the organisation and management of the course, including attendance and assessment requirements - usually in the form of a timetable. For full-time courses, the precise timetable for each semester is not confirmed until close to the start date and may be subject to some change in the early weeks as all courses settle into their planned patterns. For part-time courses which require attendance on particular days and times, an expectation of the days and periods of attendance will be included in the letter of offer. A course handbook is also made available.
Courses comprise modules for which the notional effort involved is indicated by its credit rating. Each credit point represents 10 hours of student effort. Undergraduate courses typically contain 10, 20, or 40 credit modules (more usually 20) and postgraduate courses typically 15 or 30 credit modules.
The normal study load expectation for an undergraduate full-time course of study in the standard academic year is 120 credit points. This amounts to around 36-42 hours of expected teaching and learning per week, inclusive of attendance requirements for lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical work, fieldwork or other scheduled classes, private study, and assessment. Teaching and learning activities will be in-person and/or online depending on the nature of the course. Part-time study load is the same as full-time pro-rata, with each credit point representing 10 hours of student effort.
Postgraduate Master’s courses typically comprise 180 credits, taken in three semesters when studied full-time. A Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) comprises 60 credits and can usually be completed on a part-time basis in one year. A 120-credit Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) can usually be completed on a part-time basis in two years.
Class contact times vary by course and type of module. Typically, for a module predominantly delivered through lectures you can expect at least 3 contact hours per week (lectures/seminars/tutorials). Laboratory classes often require a greater intensity of attendance in blocks. Some modules may combine lecture and laboratory. The precise model will depend on the course you apply for and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. Prospective students will be consulted about any significant changes.
Assessment methods vary and are defined explicitly in each module. Assessment can be a combination of examination and coursework but may also be only one of these methods. Assessment is designed to assess your achievement of the module’s stated learning outcomes. You can expect to receive timely feedback on all coursework assessments. This feedback may be issued individually and/or issued to the group and you will be encouraged to act on this feedback for your own development.
Coursework can take many forms, for example: essay, report, seminar paper, test, presentation, dissertation, design, artefacts, portfolio, journal, group work. The precise form and combination of assessment will depend on the course you apply for and the module. Details will be made available in advance through induction, the course handbook, the module specification, the assessment timetable and the assessment brief. The details are subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.
Normally, a module will have 4 learning outcomes, and no more than 2 items of assessment. An item of assessment can comprise more than one task. The notional workload and the equivalence across types of assessment is standardised. The module pass mark for undergraduate courses is 40%. The module pass mark for postgraduate courses is 50%.
The class of Honours awarded in Bachelor’s degrees is usually determined by calculation of an aggregate mark based on performance across the modules at Levels 5 and 6, (which correspond to the second and third year of full-time attendance).
Level 6 modules contribute 70% of the aggregate mark and Level 5 contributes 30% to the calculation of the class of the award. Classification of integrated Master’s degrees with Honours include a Level 7 component. The calculation in this case is: 50% Level 7, 30% Level 6, 20% Level 5. At least half the Level 5 modules must be studied at the University for Level 5 to be included in the calculation of the class.
All other qualifications have an overall grade determined by results in modules from the final level of study.
In Masters degrees of more than 200 credit points the final 120 points usually determine the overall grading.
Figures from the academic year 2022-2023.
The teaching staff on the MA in English Literature are recognised nationally and internationally for our outstanding research and publications in areas including early modern English Literature, English Romanticism, Irish Literature in Translation, Literary Adaptation, Ulster Scots Studies, Beckett Studies and Creative Writing.
Collectively, the English Literature lecturers at Ulster have consistently produced 4* (world-leading) and 3* (internationally excellent) research. In REF2014 over 80% of our publications and over 60% of the impact of our work on policy and practice beyond Ulster was rated at these levels.
Dr Stephen Butler https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/s-butler
Dr Kate Byrne https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/k-byrne
Dr Kevin de Ornellas https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/k-deornellas
Dr James Ward https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/jg-ward
Dr Frank Ferguson https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/f-ferguson
Dr Tim Hancock https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/tc-hancock
Professor Jan Jedrzejewski https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/jp-jedrzejewski
Dr Andrew Keanie https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/aj-keanie
Dr Kathleen McCracken https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/kl-mccracken
Dr Willa Murphy https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/w-murphy
Dr Frank Sewell https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/f-sewell
Dr Kathryn White https://www.ulster.ac.uk/staff/k-white
The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 60% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.
Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (19%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (22%) or Lecturers (57%).
We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic and learning support staff (85%) are recognised as fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) by Advance HE - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.
The profiles of many academic staff can be found on the University’s departmental websites and give a detailed insight into the range of staffing and expertise. The precise staffing for a course will depend on the department(s) involved and the availability and management of staff. This is subject to change annually and is confirmed in the timetable issued at the start of the course.
Occasionally, teaching may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff (usually qualified researchers) and specialist guest lecturers. In these cases, all staff are inducted, mostly through our staff development programme ‘First Steps to Teaching’. In some cases, usually for provision in one of our out-centres, Recognised University Teachers are involved, supported by the University in suitable professional development for teaching.
Figures from the academic year 2022-2023.
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We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.
Applicants must normally have gained an upper second class honours degree or better in English Literature or a related discipline, but applicants with a lower second class degree may also be considered. The degree held must be from a university of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, from the Council for National Academic Awards, the National Council for Educational Awards, the Higher Education and Training Awards Council, or from an institution of another country which has been recognised as being of an equivalent standard. Applicants may alternatively hold an equivalent standard (normally 50%) in a Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate, Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma or an approved alternative qualification. They must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE grade C or equivalent).
In exceptional circumstances, where an individual has substantial and significant experiential learning, a portfolio of written evidence demonstrating the meeting of graduate qualities (including subject-specific outcomes, as determined by the Course Committee) may be considered as an alternative entrance route. Evidence used to demonstrate graduate qualities may not be used for exemption against modules within the programme.
English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
Studies pursued and examinations passed in respect of other qualifications awarded by the University or by another university or other educational institution, or evidence from the accreditation of prior experiential learning, may be accepted as exempting candidates from part of the programme provided that they register as students of the University for modules amounting to at least the final third of the credit value of the award at the highest level. No exemption is permitted from the dissertation.
US students may apply for Federal and Private US loans. In addition to applying to study at Ulster, you must start you loans application with FAFSA or Private Loans. Once you have submitted you loans application, please email usloans@ulster.ac.uk
Learn more about Federal and Private US loans
All international students are eligible to a £2,000 tuition fee scholarship.
John J Sweeney Scholarship
The John J Sweeney Scholarship has a value of $20,000 and that is used towards the Scholar’s tuition fees for postgraduate study at Ulster University.
English Language
In this section
Students graduating with the MA in English Literature are well-prepared to undertake a variety of occupations, both those related directly to the nature of literary study as an academic discipline and to the subject-specific skills acquired in the course of the programme, and those of a more generally defined postgraduate-level variety.
Some typical careers followed by graduates from the course include:
- Doctoral research (For information on postgraduate research opportunities see: www.ulster.ac.uk/doctoralcollege)
- PGCE leading to primary and secondary/grammar school teaching
- career advancement and knowledge development for serving teachers of English
- Further study on related Masters programmes at Ulster University such as History (https://www.ulster.ac.uk/courses/201920/history-19755), Contemporary Performance Practices (https://www.ulster.ac.uk/courses/201920/contemporary-performance-practices-19892), Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies (https://www.ulster.ac.uk/courses/201920/cultural-heritage-and-museum-studies-19721), and Museum Practice and Management (https://www.ulster.ac.uk/courses/201920/museum-practice-and-management-19717)
- university lectureship
- full time fiction writer, poet, dramatist, screenwriter
- magazine, newspaper and digital publishing
- bookselling
- librarianship
- archive work
- media work
- public relations
- advertising
- marketing
- administration
Not currently available.
Students domiciled in Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and UK students can apply to Student Finance NI for a Tuition Fee loan of up to £6,500 (subject to eligibility).
£7,240.00
£17,810.00
Ulster University has two main intakes for Academic Year 25/26 – 1. September 2025 and 2. January 2026.
Many of our programmes which start in January will continue into Academic Year 26/27 and consequently any modules undertaken in Academic Year 26/27 will be charged at our 26/27 prices.
If your study continues into future academic years your fees are subject to an annual increase. Please take this into consideration when you estimate your total fees for a degree.
For those who are starting a programme in January which continues into Academic Year 26/27, 26/27 fees are currently not available. To help with budget planning please refer to the 25/26 fees. These are subject to increase.
Additional mandatory costs are highlighted where they are known in advance. There are other costs associated with university study.
Fees are subject to annual increase. Correct at the time of publishing. Terms and conditions apply.
None available at present.
See if you can access financial or other forms of support, including mentorship to excel in your studies.
None
It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.
Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.
There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.
See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.
We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.
Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:
For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.
For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.
We look forward to hearing from you.
I found my time on the MA so gratifying and engaging that I am currently working on a PhD in Creative Writing here. The MA programme offers both critical and creative writing modules with a pinch of theory and a dash of presentation work. During my year of study, I greatly improved my skills in research and critical thinking, built invaluable and lifelong connections with students and lecturers, and developed into the best writer I can be. The patient and insightful guidance of my supervisors, as well as the approachability of everyone who teaches on the MA, made my time at Ulster one of the most valuable and enjoyable experiences of my life.
Sveto Manev, current PhD Candidate
Vibrant, diverse and scholarly, the MA in English Literature at Ulster University is a unique and exciting experience, ideal for those wishing to further their study of literature. The course is thoughtfully crafted whilst the expertise of Ulster's English Literature department encourages students to acquire the necessary skills to graduate as Masters of the Arts.
Emma Keanie, Graduate
Every lecturer teaching on the MA in English Literature is extremely dedicated to helping students reach their full potential. The path of learning in the course allows you to explore different aspects of writing and helped me craft not only my academic abilities but creative too. The most enjoyable part of the MA is how diverse the modules and assignments are, allowing you to cater to your interests and strengths.
Chelsea Lee Crangle, Graduate
Ulster University has held a special place in my heart since I completed my BA in English there. When it came time to pick a Masters course the logical choice was to return to a community where I felt challenged and nourished. For me, the highlights on the course were the Critical Theory and Research Methods and the Special Author/ Topic modules. These modules were extremely interesting and gave students the freedom to explore and expand on new topics. Lecturers took time to give extensive feedback and delivered amazing lectures that both engaged and challenged us.
Shannon Guinney, Graduate
After studying at Ulster University for my undergraduate degree, I was apprehensive about continuing with a Masters at the same university. However, the caring attitude and continuous support of the teaching staff on the MA in English Literature is something for which I am grateful. The past year has been challenging but the diversity of study and lecturers made it all worth while. Modules such as Critical Theory and Debates allowed me to broaden my reading and gave me the freedom to present on topics such as eco-theory in Beat Writing. But the gems of the MA were the creative modules! Here, I was able to develop my own poetry and a write a substantial amount throughout the year. This helped me find my own voice and gave me the freedom to write how I wanted to and draw from as many inspirations as I needed. For my Creative Project, I received seven pages of thorough feedback. This has helped me greatly and shows dedication from my supervisor and the other markers. Another highlight of my year was the success of our own student-led publication The Paperclip, that displayed creative writing from current students and alumni. This was a goal for me and something I can now cherish throughout my academic career.
Niamh McNally, Graduate
The MA in English Literature at Ulster gave me the flexibility and diversity necessary to complete an interdisciplinary degree. My dissertation supervisor presented superb feedback on my dissertation in a prompt and professional manner. This example of excellence is typical of what the English team provide. On a broader subject, Ulster University also allowed me the opportunity to flex various muscles, from co-editing a book publication to service as the international chair on student council. If you are looking for a university that will allow growth both personally and academically - welcome home.
Emily Willauer, International Student and Graduate
For me personally the course is helped me further develop my self-confidence and self-esteem. The subjects are also all very unique and passionately taught and the lecturers are always happy to lend a hand. The University itself and its Arts and Humanities faculty were very open and welcoming during my undergraduate years, and the Master's degree takes it to a new level.
Kirsty Comac, MA Graduate and Current PhD Student
The Master’s program at Ulster is a rich and rewarding experience for all involved. The lecturers clearly adore the work they teach and the approaches to the literature are broad enough to apply them to any text you like.
Jordan Rafferty, Graduate
The Master’s course pleasantly focuses on learning rather than assessment. Furthermore, the variety of lectures provides a welcome change each session which helps sustain interest.
Fergal Wiseman, Graduate
The course was really interesting and covered a great variety of subjects within English literature. I feel it targeted everyone’s interests while getting us to explore and improve our knowledge on other areas which I myself was too scared to explore and challenge.
Recent Graduate
Ulster continues to develop and support sustainability initiatives with our staff, students, and external partners across various aspects of teaching, research, professional services operations, and governance.
At Ulster every person, course, research project, and professional service area on every campus either does or can contribute in some way towards the global sustainability and climate change agenda.
We are guided by both our University Strategy People, Place and Partnerships: Delivering Sustainable Futures for All and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Our work in this area is already being recognised globally. Most recently by the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact rating where we were recognised as Joint 5th Globally for Outreach Activities and Joint Top 20 Globally for Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals.
Visit our Sustainability at Ulster destination to learn more about how the University strategy and the activities of Ulster University support each of the Sustainable Development Goals.
