The MPhil in American Literature at the University of Cambridge is a comprehensive and in-depth postgraduate program designed for students with a strong interest in the rich and diverse literary tradition of the United States. This program offers an opportunity to engage critically with a wide range of American literary texts, from early colonial writings and 19th-century classics to contemporary works and emerging voices. Students will have the chance to explore themes such as race, identity, democracy, modernity, and innovation in American literature, supported by the university's renowned faculty and extensive academic resources.

The curriculum combines rigorous coursework, independent research, and regular seminars that foster critical discussion and scholarly exchange. Students are encouraged to develop their analytical skills and produce original research, often culminating in a dissertation that contributes new insights to the field. The program emphasizes close textual analysis, historical contextualization, and theoretical approaches, enabling students to deepen their understanding of American literary history and its cultural significance.

Throughout the course, students will have access to Cambridge’s extensive libraries and archives, including special collections related to American history and literature. They can participate in workshops, guest lectures, and conferences that connect academic research with broader social and cultural issues impacting American society and literature today. The program is suitable for those aiming to pursue doctoral research or high-level careers in academia, publishing, or cultural institutions.

The MPhil in American Literature at Cambridge offers a unique academic environment, combining tradition with innovative research, and provides students with the skills necessary to analyze American texts and participate meaningfully in scholarly debates. Graduates of this program will have a solid foundation in American literary studies and critical methodologies, preparing them for a wide range of career paths in academia, arts and culture sectors, or public humanities. The program’s interdisciplinary nature ensures that students gain a broad understanding of American culture alongside their literary specialization, making it an ideal choice for those passionate about American literary history and its ongoing influence on global literature and society.

Feedback

In addition to supervision meetings each student should also receive a supervision report at the end of each term via the online Cambridge Graduate Supervision Reporting System.

Assessment

Thesis

Submission of an 80,000 word dissertation and an examination, conducted orally, on the subject of the dissertation.

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.5
• TOEFL Internet Score 110
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• Sample of Work. This can be an extract from a dissertation or one or two long essays amounting to 5,000 -7,000 words.
• Research Proposal. This should be 800-words long and include a simple, descriptive title. Please see the following website for more information and examples of previous, successful research proposals.
• Personal Reference

The University of Cambridge offers a range of funding options for students undertaking the American Literature programme, aimed at supporting both domestic and international students financially. These options include scholarships, grants, bursaries, and loans designed to alleviate the cost of tuition fees and living expenses. Scholarships such as the Cambridge Trust, the American Undergraduate Scholarships, and college-specific bursaries are highly competitive and usually awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both. Many colleges within the university also provide their own financial aid packages and bursaries tailored specifically to literature students, including American Literature students.

In addition to university-funded scholarships, students can explore external funding sources such as government sponsorships, private foundations, and cultural exchange programs that support study in the UK. For international students, there may be additional scholarships and funding opportunities, such as the Chevening Scholarships or Fulbright Program, depending on eligibility. Students are encouraged to carefully review the eligibility criteria of each funding option and to submit applications early to maximize their chances of receiving financial support.

The university also provides information on installment payment plans for tuition fees and guidance on applying for loans available within the UK or through international lending institutions. Financial planning services are accessible to help students budget for their entire course duration, including accommodation, textbooks, and other essential expenses. Overall, the Cambridge University is committed to assisting American Literature students through a variety of financial support mechanisms, making their educational journey accessible regardless of financial background.

The MPhil in American Literature at the University of Cambridge offers students an in-depth exploration of the rich and diverse literary traditions of the United States. This postgraduate research programme is designed for those who wish to engage critically with American literary history, contemporary writings, and cultural contexts. The curriculum emphasizes both historical and theoretical approaches, enabling students to analyze a wide range of texts, from early American classics to modern and postmodern works. The programme typically involves a combination of taught modules and independent research, culminating in a dissertation that reflects the student's specialized interests.

Students benefit from the University's extensive resources, including access to rare manuscripts, comprehensive libraries, and digital archives. The faculty includes distinguished scholars of American literature, offering expert guidance and mentorship throughout the course. The research environment promotes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to incorporate insights from history, cultural studies, philosophy, and other related fields. The University promotes a vibrant academic community with seminars, workshops, and conferences that foster scholarly exchange and professional development.

The programme is suitable for students intending to pursue careers in academia, publishing, cultural institutions, or further research. Admission requirements typically include a strong academic background in literature or related disciplines, proficiency in research methodology, and a demonstrable interest in American literary studies. Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to contribute to scholarly debates, publish research, and deepen understanding of American literary culture and its global influence. The University of Cambridge maintains high academic standards and provides an intellectually stimulating environment for emerging scholars in American literature.