English PhD

From Medieval and Renaissance writing to the 18th century to the present, from the novel to poetry to modernism, postmodernism and the contemporary scene – we're strongly committed to the interdisciplinary study of literature.

98% of our English Language and Literature research output was rated world-leading, internationally excellent or recognised internationally in terms of originality, significance and rigour (REF 2014). We’re one of the largest graduate communities in the country, with over 200 students and more than 50 faculty. You’ll benefit from expert supervision, teacher training and research workshops, as well as a lively annual roster of symposia, conferences and guest lectures.

AREAS OF STUDY

You have the opportunity to look at literature in relation to philosophy, visual culture and the history of ideas. You could base your project in an area such as:

• postcolonial theory
• feminist theory
• gay and lesbian criticism
• queer theory
• recent developments in psychoanalytic, Marxist, poststructuralist and ‘new historicist’ criticism.

For a PhD, your research work makes a substantial original contribution to knowledge or understanding in your chosen field.