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English Literary Studies (Twentieth Century and Contemporary) (MA)

University of Southampton

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University of Southampton

Course options

2 options available

  • Qualification

    MA - Master of Arts

  • Location

    Avenue Campus

  • Study mode

    Full time

  • Start date

    21-SEP-26

  • Duration

    1 Year

Course summary

This master's degree is a specialised pathway focusing on English literature from the 20th Century to the present day (Contemporary). It offers the opportunity to explore contemporary culture and history through literary texts, covering crucial topics such as: Science and climate change Politics and globalisation The relationship between literary and visual cultures Issues of sexuality, gender, race, and disability The curriculum is designed to provide you with an advanced understanding of cultural analysis, textual interpretation, and theoretical methods relevant to modern and contemporary writing. We're ranked 6th for research quality in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026). Key Features and Distinctiveness Specialised Focus: The pathway offers dedicated, in-depth study of the most recent and evolving literary periods, differentiating it from the general MA English Literary Studies degree. Research Centre Link: It is linked to the Southampton Centre for Modern and Contemporary Writing, which actively brings together academics, writers, and research students with shared interests in the relationship between writing and contemporary culture, hosting events like guest lectures and seminars. Core Module: You will study the 'Approaches to the Long Twentieth Century (1914–Present)' core module, which introduces key critical, theoretical, and conceptual debates specific to this extensive period. Final Project: The program culminates in a 15,000-word dissertation, an extended piece of independent scholarly research on a literary aspect of the 20th or 21st century that interests you. Your Future Career The course cultivates high-level analytical and communication skills, preparing graduates for careers that require sophisticated cultural awareness and critical engagement. Potential career paths include: Teaching and Academic Research (including progression to PhD study). Publishing and Editorial Roles. Librarianship Cultural Heritage and Arts Administration. Further Information Course Duration: Available as a full-time (one-year) master's or a part-time option over two or more years. Location: The course is based at the Avenue Campus. Entry Requirements: A typical offer requires a 2:2 degree in English literature or a related subject. You are also required to submit a sample of written work (approximately 2,500 words) for assessment.

Application deadline

02/09/2026

Tuition fees

Students living in United States
(International fees)

£ 26,200per year

Tuition fees shown are for indicative purposes and may vary. Please check with the institution for most up to date details.

University information

University of Southampton

University of Southampton

University of Southampton

  • University League Table

    17th

  • Campus address

    Main Site - Highfield Campus, Highfield, Southampton, Hampshire, SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom

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Subject rankings

  • Subject ranking

    English

    13th out of 93 9

  • Entry standards

    / Max 212
    150 71%

    23rd

  • Graduate prospects

    / Max 100
    81.0 81%

    10th

    22

  • Student satisfaction

    / Max 4
    3.24 81%

    41st

    2

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