| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2024-06-01 | - |
Program Overview
The University of Birmingham's PhD/MA by Research in English Literature offers an in-depth three-year program for advanced research, allowing students to delve into literature's impact on society. With world-class library resources and collaborations with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the program provides a comprehensive exploration of the field. Graduates gain advanced research skills and are prepared for a range of careers within and beyond academia.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The PhD/MA by Research in English Literature at the University of Birmingham offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the field. The program allows students to engage in three years of research, developing a deeper understanding of how literature shapes our worldviews.
Objectives:
- To conduct original research in English Literature.
- To develop advanced research skills, including critical thinking, analysis, and writing.
- To contribute to the field of English Literature through scholarly publications and presentations.
Program Description:
- Students can choose to study full-time or part-time, on campus or by distance learning.
- The program is delivered by the College of Arts and Law, which has extensive experience in distance learning.
- Students have access to world-class library resources, including the University's Main Library and the Cadbury Research Library, which houses rare manuscripts and archives.
Careers:
- The program provides excellent preparation for a variety of careers, both within and outside of academia.
- Graduates have gone on to pursue careers in copywriting, project management, publishing, and teaching.
Other:
- The University of Birmingham is ranked equal 10th in the UK amongst Russell Group universities in the Research Excellence Framework exercise 2021 (Times Higher Education).
- The University of Birmingham was ranked in the Top 50 in the World for English Language & Literature by the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024.
- The Cadbury Research Library holds approximately 120,000 pre-1850 books dating from 1471, and some 3 million manuscripts.
- The Orchard Learning Resource Centre in Selly Oak houses a growing drama and modern literature collection.
- Postgraduate Taught and Postgraduate Research students have the opportunity to learn graduate academic languages free of charge.
UK: £4,786 full-time; £2,393 part-time International: £21,840 full-time; £10,920 part-time (distance learning only)
University of Birmingham Summary
Overview:
The University of Birmingham is a leading global university with a strong focus on research and innovation. It is committed to developing solutions for a thriving planet and improving the health of people around the world.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The University of Birmingham offers a welcoming environment for students, with opportunities to settle in, make new friends, discover the city of Birmingham, and prepare for their studies. The university also has a vision for its campus development in the next 20 years, aiming to enhance and refine the global campuses.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Global Impact:
The university's research is focused on addressing major global issues, such as climate change and global health.Multidisciplinary Collaboration:
The university encourages collaboration across disciplines to drive innovation and find solutions to complex problems.Pioneering Breakthroughs:
The university is known for its pioneering research and breakthroughs in various fields.Academic Programs:
Other:
The university has five research challenge themes that guide its focus and draw on its vast expertise and resources. These themes showcase the university's pioneering breakthroughs, multidisciplinary collaboration, and significant global impact.
Entry Requirements:
- For MRes and MA by Research programmes:
- A good (normally a 2:1 or above) Honours degree, or an equivalent qualification if you were educated outside the UK, usually in a relevant area.
- For PhD programmes:
- A Masters qualification at Merit level or above (or its international equivalent), usually in a relevant area.
- For Distance Learning Research Programmes:
- You must demonstrate that you have the time, commitment, facilities, and experience to study by distance learning.
International Students:
- General Requirements:
- A Bachelors degree and a Masters degree, with a GPA of 14/20 from a recognised institution to be considered.
- Applicants with lower grades than this may be considered on an individual basis.
- Specific Requirements by Country:
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Standard Language Requirements:
- IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band.
- Equivalent Scores for Other Tests:
- TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 21 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 59 in all four skills
- Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015): Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
- English for Academic Purposes Presessional Course: If you successfully complete the course, you will be able to fulfil the language requirement without retaking a language qualification.
