English Literature (Modern and Contemporary pathway)

You’ll begin the programme with a core module that develops your knowledge of research methods and approaches in literary studies, helping you prepare for the rest of your studies.

At the same time you’ll take the first of your three optional modules, allowing you to pursue topics that interest you in particular. You may focus entirely on modern and contemporary literature, or you can choose to take up to two from the full range of options across the School of English. You’ll take two optional modules in Semester Two.

Throughout the year, you’ll develop your high-level skills in research and analysis while developing specialist knowledge of your chosen topics. You’ll expand on this in your dissertation or research project, where you’ll research a topic of your choice in British or Irish modern and contemporary literature and submit your work by the end of the programme in September.

If you choose to study part-time, you’ll take fewer modules in each year and study over a 24 month period.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Studying English: Research Methods 30 credits
• Research Project 60 credits

Optional modules

• Caribbean and Black British Writing 30 credits
• Reading (with) Psychoanalysis 30 credits
• The Enigmatic Body of Modernism 30 credits
• Global Indigeneity 30 credits
• Culture and Anarchy: 1945-1965 30 credits

For more information on typical modules, read English Literature (Modern and Contemporary pathway) MA Full Time in the course catalogue

For more information on typical modules, read English Literature (Modern and Contemporary pathway) MA Part Time in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

Most of our MA modules are taught in two-hour weekly seminars, where you’ll discuss issues arising from your reading with a small group of students and your tutor. You’ll also have the chance to expand your learning by making the most of the range of visiting speakers and research seminars that we run throughout the year. You’ll also benefit from supervisions throughout semester 2 with your dissertation supervisor.

However, independent study is still crucial to this degree, allowing you to pursue your interests and build your skills.

Assessment

We use a variety of assessment methods, but most of your modules will be assessed by a single 4,000 word essay, which you submit at the end of the semester. Your research project or dissertation is usually between 12,000 and 15,000 words. During the year you may also be expected to give presentations on your reading during seminars, or submit unassessed essays to get feedback on your work.