Program Overview

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MA (by Dissertation) Literature

Overview

The University of Essex offers a Postgraduate Research Course in MA (by Dissertation) Literature. The course starts in October 2026 and is available in both full-time and part-time study modes. The duration of the course is 1-2 years, and it is based at the Colchester Campus.

The Department of Literature, Film, and Theatre Studies provides supervision for the MA by Dissertation in Literature, covering a wide range of expertise in different literatures and approaches to literature. The department's research strengths include:

• Early Modern literature
• Romanticism
• Eighteenth- and nineteenth-century literature
• US and Caribbean literature
• Postcolonial literature
• Modern, postmodern, and contemporary literature
• Eco-criticism and nature writing
• Black and black diaspora writing
• Travel writing
• First World War writing
• Literature and human rights
• Science fiction
• The post-human

Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers as writers, scholars, university lecturers, teachers, publishers, editors, journalists, arts administrators, theatre directors, and translators.

Entry Requirements

UK Entry Requirements

The university considers a 2:1 or above (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject, such as creative writing, theatre/drama studies, literature, film and media studies, modern languages, and art history. An interview or Skype interview is normally required for acceptance, and acceptance is subject to research expertise in the department.

International & EU Entry Requirements

The university accepts a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries. International students are advised to contact the university for information on accepted qualifications.

English Language Requirements

If English is not the first language, students are required to have IELTS 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in writing and a minimum score of 5.5 in all other components.

Structure

Course Structure

A research degree does not have a taught structure, allowing students to investigate their chosen topic in depth and reach a profound understanding. The course provides the opportunity to generate knowledge and develop new high-level skills.

Assessment

The MA by Dissertation is a one-year program of advanced study and research. The thesis should be no longer than 30,000 words. Supervisory board meetings are held twice a year to discuss progress and agree on immediate and future plans.

Fees and Funding

Home/UK Fee

The fee for home/UK students is ｣5,238 per year.

International Fee

The fee for international students is ｣20,625 per year. Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

Scholarships and Financial Support

There may be scholarships, bursaries, or discounts available to help with the cost of the course.

Related Courses

The university also offers:

• PhD Literature (full-time and part-time)
• MPhil Literature (full-time and part-time)

These courses are based at the Colchester Campus and provide opportunities for advanced research and study in literature.