The MPhil in Renaissance Literature at the University of Cambridge offers students an in-depth exploration of the rich and diverse literary culture of the European Renaissance period, roughly spanning from the late 15th to the early 17th centuries. This prestigious program is designed for individuals with a strong background in literature, history, or related disciplines who seek to deepen their understanding of one of the most vibrant and transformative eras in Western literary history. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of texts, including poetry, drama, prose, and scholarly writings from renowned authors such as William Shakespeare, Erasmus, and Torquato Tasso, among others.

The program emphasizes critical analysis, contextual understanding, and theoretical approaches, encouraging students to examine the cultural, political, and philosophical ideas that influenced the literature of the period. Students have opportunities to study original texts in their original languages, including Latin, Greek, Italian, and Spanish, providing a comprehensive linguistic as well as literary education. The curriculum combines taught modules, seminars, and individual research supervision, fostering an environment where students can develop their own scholarly interests and contribute to ongoing academic debates.

Research skills are a core component of the program, with dedicated training in archival research, textual editing, and academic writing, empowering students to prepare for doctoral studies or careers in academia, publishing, or cultural institutions. The teaching staff comprises leading experts in Renaissance literature and related fields, offering mentorship and guidance tailored to each student's academic pursuits.

The university's historic library and extensive digital resources facilitate access to primary and secondary materials essential for research. The program culminates in a dissertation that allows students to investigate a specialized topic within Renaissance Literature, demonstrating their ability to conduct independent scholarship at an advanced level. Graduates of the MPhil in Renaissance Literature leave the program equipped with critical skills, a broadened intellectual horizon, and a comprehensive understanding of one of the most influential periods in literary history.

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 
• Research Proposal 
• Personal Reference

There is no specific information available regarding the financing studies for the Renaissance Literature program at the University of Cambridge. Generally, funding options for students enrolled in postgraduate programs at Cambridge include a variety of sources such as university scholarships, research council grants, external bursaries, and government loans, depending on the student's nationality and eligibility. University scholarships may be awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the applicant's background or project proposals. International students are often encouraged to explore external funding opportunities provided by their home countries or international organizations. Student loans and financial aid programs are also available to certain categories of students, particularly those from the UK or within the European Union. It is advisable for prospective students to consult the official university website or contact the admissions office directly for the most accurate and detailed information about available funding opportunities, application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility requirements. Cambridge also offers some specialized fellowships and sponsorship schemes that may support research and study in the field of Renaissance Literature, aimed at both domestic and international students. Applicants are encouraged to review the specific funding pages associated with their chosen course or department for tailored advice. Additionally, students can explore external grants, heritage and arts organizations, or research foundations dedicated to the study of literature and history, which occasionally provide funding for research projects. Ultimately, securing funding requires timely application and documentation demonstrating academic excellence and financial need, where applicable. Prospective candidates should plan their applications well in advance to meet all relevant deadlines and ensure they take full advantage of available financial support systems offered by the University of Cambridge.

The MPhil in Renaissance Literature at the University of Cambridge is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed for students with a strong interest in the literature of the Renaissance period, roughly spanning the 15th to the early 17th centuries. This program offers an in-depth exploration of the vibrant literary culture of early modern Europe, with a particular emphasis on English literature but also including influential works from other European nations. Students will engage with a wide range of texts, authors, and genres, including poetry, drama, prose, and scholarly essays, analyzing their historical, cultural, and literary contexts.

The course curriculum typically includes core modules that provide foundational knowledge of the period's key themes, literary movements, and historical backdrop. These may cover topics such as humanism, the development of the English language, the influence of the Reformation, and the social and political upheavals that shaped literary production. Beyond these core modules, students can choose from a variety of optional courses tailored to their specific interests, allowing for specialization in areas such as Elizabethan drama, religious writings, or poetic forms.

Research skills are a significant component of the program, with students encouraged to develop their analytical, critical, and scholarly abilities through coursework, seminars, and independent research projects. The program culminates in a dissertation, which offers students the opportunity to conduct original research on a topic of particular interest within Renaissance literature, supported by faculty supervision.

The program is typically one academic year in duration for full-time students, with part-time options available in some cases. Entry requirements generally include a strong undergraduate degree in English, Comparative Literature, History, or a related field, with particular emphasis on demonstrated research interests aligned with Renaissance literature. The program is suitable for those considering further academic research, such as a PhD, or for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of early modern literary culture.

Students benefit from Cambridge’s rich academic resources, including access to extensive library collections, digitized manuscripts, and special collections related to Renaissance texts. The university’s vibrant intellectual community also offers numerous seminars, workshops, and conferences that facilitate scholarly exchange and networking within the field. Graduates of the program often go on to careers in academia, publishing, arts administration, or cultural heritage sectors, leveraging their knowledge of Renaissance literature and critical skills acquired during their studies.