MA in English Literature (Victorian Literature, Art and Culture), Royal Holloway University of London

Egham,

12 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This MA programme focuses on nineteenth-century literature and culture, especially during the Victorian era from 1837 to 1901. Situated on the beautiful Egham campus, students will explore a wide array of Victorian texts, artworks, and cultural forms, analyzing key themes within Britain and beyond. The course is led by experts from the Centre for Victorian Studies, offering access to unique resources such as the Victorian Picture Gallery and archives, as well as proximity to London’s museums and literary scenes. It combines in-depth study of canonical authors like Dickens, the Brontë sisters, Doyle, and Eliot with lesser-known works, highlighting the social, political, and environmental changes of the era. Students will also engage with contemporary reinterpretations of Victorian themes. The program includes research seminars, cultural excursions, and active participation in city-wide Victorian cultural events, making it a rich and immersive experience for those interested in this influential period.

Why this course is highly recommended

Students are drawn to this programme for its strong focus on Victorian culture combined with access to outstanding resources and expert faculty from the Centre for Victorian Studies. The course’s location in a historic campus and proximity to London provide a unique environment for exploring Victorian literature and art in both academic and real-world contexts. The curriculum’s diversity, including texts, artworks, social themes, and cultural analysis, offers a rich learning experience. Plus, the opportunity to participate in seminars, workshops, and city-wide events enhances understanding and professional development. Scholarships and active alumni networks further support students' career trajectories in academia and related fields.

Specialisation

This course offers a specialised pathway within the broader MA in English Literature, concentrating on Victorian literature, art, and culture. It emphasizes the diverse literary and artistic productions of the nineteenth century, examining them from multiple perspectives. Optional modules cover topics such as Victorian London, the nineteenth-century novel, Pre-Raphaelite art, and Victorian climate narratives, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests within Victorian studies. The dissertation component supports in-depth research on a Victorian-related topic of their choosing, fostering a scholarly approach and original insight into the period.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

27.55L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need a UK Lower Class Honours degree (2:2) or equivalent in a related subject. Candidates with relevant professional qualifications or experience will also be considered. The programme requires the completion of core modules such as Cultural Keywords and research methods, along with an academic integrity course. Students must undertake three optional modules—at least two on Victorian themes—and produce a dissertation of about 15,000 words on a Victorian studies topic, agreed with their supervisor. The course involves written assessments, seminars, and research projects to ensure a comprehensive grasp of Victorian literature and culture.

English language test

PTE

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

130

IELTS

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme have a strong record of securing academic positions at various universities and research institutions, including prominent roles in Shakespeare and Renaissance studies, American, modern, and contemporary literature. The skills developed also prepare students for careers outside academia in teaching, writing, journalism, administration, and marketing. The programme’s emphasis on research, critical analysis, and cultural understanding makes its alumni competitive in diverse professional fields.

FAQs

What is the duration of the course?

The course lasts one year if studied full-time and two years part-time.

What are the tuition fees for international students?

International and EU students pay £26,100 per year.