English Literary Studies, MA, University of Exeter

the United Kingdom

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Study options for this course

The award	How you will study	Study duration	Course start	Domestic course fees	International course fees
MA	Full-time	1 year	September	find out	find out

About English Literary Studies, MA - at University of Exeter

Develop a deep understanding of literature and media within their historical and cultural contexts, while developing advanced communication, research, and analytical skills
Tailor your degree to suit your interests with a wide range of optional modules
Ideal for students seeking to enhance their studies before launching a career in fields such as research, publishing, communications, or the arts, while engaging with the department's internationally renowned Research Centres, Research Groups and conferences
Benefit from excellent campus facilities, including Special Collections featuring the papers of celebrated authors like Agatha Christie, Daphne Du Maurier, William Golding and Ted Hughes; the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum's unique film and popular culture archives; and the cutting-edge Digital Humanities Lab
Study in Exeter, a UNESCO City of Literature, and gain access to a rich array of local resources such as the Devon and Exeter Institution and the Cathedral Archive, supporting your exploration of literary and cultural works

Learn more about English Literary Studies, MA - at University of Exeter

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Entry requirements

We will consider applicants with a 2:2 Honours degree or above in their first degree in a relevant subject area. While we normally only consider applicants who meet this criteria, if you are coming from a different academic background which is equivalent to degree level, or have relevant work experience, we would welcome your application.

Applicants may also be asked to submit a personal statement and an academic writing sample. The writing sample requested is normally around 2,000-3,000 words of prose, such as a critical essay or an excerpt from one produced for an undergraduate degree. However, this is not mandatory for your initial application. You are welcome to include a writing sample if you wish.

Please also see our guidance on essential documentation required for an initial decision on taught programme applications.

Entry requirements for international students

English language requirements

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile E. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.

Fees, Funding and Scholarships at University of Exeter

The University of Exeter invests heavily in scholarships to support top international students. These include the Exeter Excellence Scholarships, which are awarded to academically gifted and ambitious students from around the world, as well as country-specific scholarships for students applying from certain regions.

More information on the University’s international scholarships can be found here.

To search all available scholarships, please use the University’s funding database.

Student reviews of University of Exeter

Find out what students say about University of Exeter

Ernest, from Ghana, studying MSc Sustainable Business Management

“The student support provided by the University is exceptional and most importantly the campus in Penryn is beautiful and blessed with many green spaces. My decision to study here was further solidified when I was awarded the Green Futures scholarship. This scholarship has played a major role in supporting my academic journey, by offering me stability to focus on my studies in order to achieve my goals.

“Since arriving on campus, it has been nothing but an incredible experience. I have had the opportunity to interact and work in teams with students from diverse backgrounds with a variety of goals. Academic staff are always willing to lend a helping hand when needed and the career services have been invaluable, offering great advice on job applications.”

Erica, from the Philippines, studying LLM Law

“I am currently the Vice President of the Filipino Society and I am proud that I am able to represent my background and heritage at the University. Exeter offers numerous opportunities for us to share our culture, such as the popular Spring Festival celebrations and the ASEAN Spring Ball, which I believe is incredibly important. There is a strong sense of community at Exeter and it is something I truly appreciate while being here.

“In my first year I lived on campus and shared a flat with six people. I wasn't extremely keen on the nightlife scene so I was a bit worried about what my new flatmates would be like in terms of partying/drinking. Luckily though, my accommodation was a ‘quiet flat’ and a lot of us had similar personalities, which allowed me to settle in quickly and feel more at ease. My entire block only consisted of six flats and we were all really sociable and ended up being very close, and I am still friends with a lot of them now.”

Sandeep, from India, studying MSc Data Science

“I did struggle with a few assignments at first. Once, I got completely stuck and so reached out to Dr. Phill after a lecture. He was helpful and even sent me more tips via email afterward.

“One of the biggest things that surprised me here is how different the teaching style is compared to India. Back home, it’s mostly theoretical, with classes from morning till evening and exams twice a year. Here, it’s so much more flexible. Lectures aren’t every day, and they’re more like discussions or seminars. The assignments and quizzes are more frequent and keep you on your toes, which really helps with self-learning.

“For anyone planning to come here, my advice is simple: if you’re curious and have a mindset of learning every day, Exeter is a fantastic place. Every day here feels like an opportunity to grow and challenge yourself.”