English 650-1550

The English Language and Literature programme at the University of Oxford offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the English language, its historical development, and its rich literary tradition. This course is designed for individuals with a strong passion for language, literature, and critical analysis, providing them with the skills to examine texts from diverse periods and genres while understanding the evolution of English over time. Throughout the programme, students engage with foundational linguistic theories, explore the history of the English language from Old English to contemporary forms, and analyze a wide range of literary works spanning from medieval literature to modern narratives. The curriculum encourages critical thinking, close reading, and scholarly research, supported by expert faculty members who are leading figures in their fields. Students will have opportunities to study both primary and secondary sources, participate in seminars, and develop their own original research projects. Additionally, the programme emphasizes the practical application of language analysis, literary criticism, and historical contextualization, preparing graduates for careers in academia, publishing, education, media, and other fields that value strong analytical and communication skills. The Oxford environment fosters intellectual curiosity and rigorous scholarship, offering access to extensive university resources, world-class libraries, and a vibrant academic community. Whether you are interested in the history of English, linguistic variation, literary movements, or the relationship between language and culture, this programme provides a well-rounded education in understanding the depth, complexity, and beauty of the English language and its literary heritage. Graduates of this programme will be equipped with critical insights, advanced research skills, and a profound appreciation for the enduring significance of English in global contexts.

The MSt programme consists of four main components, through which you have the opportunity to pursue interests within your chosen MSt strand, as well as across period boundaries. In the first two terms, you will take a core course (A) tailored to your specific programme, a compulsory course in book history and theories of text (B) also tailored to your programme, and choose two courses from a wide range of options (C). Under the guidance of a specialist supervisor you will also research and write a dissertation, which is submitted in the final term. 

The MSt programme is assessed via the submission of four pieces of coursework. In addition to the dissertation, you will submit three essays of 5,000 to 7,000 words – one at the end of the first term, and two at the end of the second term – relating to the B and C courses that have been taken.

All course work will be completed by the end of the second term (Hilary term), leaving the summer term (Trinity term) to complete the dissertation, which is submitted in June.

A. Core course: Literature, contexts and approaches

This is the core course for this MSt. It is formally non-assessed but compulsory. The general classes on literature, contexts and approaches introduce representative key texts and current debates on the literature and cultural history of the period. This course is designed to provide a solid foundation for advanced literary study.

B. Core course: Bibliography, theories of text, history of the book, manuscript studies

This is a compulsory, assessed course, taught via a range of lectures and seminars in each of the first two terms. It is designed to train you for research in English, through the study of bibliography, palaeography, book history and theories of text (appropriate to the relevant period).

C. Special options

The special option courses present an excellent opportunity for you to develop and pursue your research interests, whether related or unrelated to other work undertaken as part of the MSt degree. You are not constrained to follow option courses within the designated period, and indeed, option courses often traverse the boundaries of the broad periods. The courses are taught in weekly, small group seminars.

D. Dissertation

You will write a 10,000- to 11,000-word dissertation on a subject of your choice, but related to the work you have been doing over the year. You will be assigned to a member of academic staff who will act as your supervisor.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in English literature and/or English language, or exceptionally a related subject. 

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.75 (with at least 3.85 in the major) out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose/personal statement:One to two pages
• Written work:Either one essay of 4,000 words or two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

• Global Education
• Hill Foundation Scholarships
• Ertegun Scholarship Programme 

The English Language and Literature program at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and in-depth study of the English language, its history, and its literature. This course is designed to develop students' critical understanding of the development of English from its earliest origins to the modern day, alongside an exploration of its rich literary tradition. Students will engage with a wide range of texts, from Old and Middle English literature to contemporary works, analyzing language structure, stylistic features, and thematic content. The program encourages analytical thinking, close reading skills, and contextual understanding, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches that integrate historical, cultural, and literary perspectives.

Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to study various aspects of the English language, including phonetics, semantics, syntax, and historical linguistics. They also explore literary genres, periods, and movements, gaining familiarity with authors such as Chaucer, Shakespeare, Milton, Austen, and contemporary writers. The curriculum combines core modules with options that allow students to tailor their studies according to personal interests and career plans. In addition to theoretical coursework, students undertake independent research projects and participate in seminars designed to foster debate and scholarly discussion.

The program is typically structured over three or four years, depending on the chosen pathway. It combines lectures, seminars, tutorials, and practical exercises, offering a well-rounded academic experience. Students benefit from the university’s rich library and archival resources, providing access to invaluable primary sources and scholarly materials. Graduates of the program often pursue careers in editing, publishing, education, media, or further academic study at graduate level. The course aims to produce graduates with excellent communication skills, a detailed understanding of linguistic and literary phenomena, and the ability to interpret texts within their broader socio-historical contexts. Overall, the program emphasizes both breadth and depth, preparing students for a range of professional and academic pursuits related to the English language and its literature.