World Literatures in English

The Master of Studies in World Literatures in English at the University of Oxford offers a unique interdisciplinary program that explores the rich and diverse literary traditions of the English-speaking world across different cultures and historical periods. This program is designed for students who are passionate about literature and interested in understanding its global implications, cultural contexts, and innovative developments. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of texts from Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, Oceania, North America, and other regions, examining themes such as postcolonialism, globalization, identity, migration, and linguistic diversity. The curriculum combines core modules on critical theory and research methods with specialized options that allow students to focus on particular geographical areas or genres, including poetry, fiction, drama, and oral storytelling traditions.

Students benefit from the distinguished faculty's expertise, participating in seminars, tutorials, and workshops that foster close analytical engagement and scholarly debate. The program also emphasizes developing strong research skills, preparing students for potential careers in academia, publishing, cultural institutions, or public policy. The flexible nature of the course allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests and future aspirations, with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and independent research. The program culminates in a dissertation that enables students to demonstrate their ability to conduct original research on a topic related to world literatures in English. With access to Oxford's extensive libraries and research resources, students are well-supported throughout their academic journey. Graduates of this program emerge with a global perspective on literature and a critical awareness of the diverse cultural meanings embedded within English-language texts from around the world.

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 Master of Studies (MSt) in World Literatures in English at the University of Oxford offers students an in-depth exploration of literary traditions originating from around the globe, with a particular focus on the ways in which English-language texts intersect with diverse cultures and histories. This program is designed for individuals interested in comparing and analyzing literary works across different languages, regions, and historical periods, emphasizing postcolonial contexts, global literature, and transnational narratives.

Students enrolled in the MSt in World Literatures in English engage with a comprehensive curriculum that includes core modules on theoretical approaches to world literature, as well as options that allow for specialization in particular geographic regions such as Africa, the Caribbean, South Asia, or Southeast Asia. The program encourages critical examination of how literature shapes and is shaped by cultural identities, political movements, and social change. In addition to coursework, students undertake a substantial research project culminating in a dissertation, which provides an opportunity to explore their chosen topics in greater depth.

The program is typically completed over one year full-time, though part-time options may be available, allowing flexibility for working professionals or those with other commitments. The teaching methods include seminars, lectures, and tutorials, fostering an interactive learning environment. Students benefit from access to Oxford's extensive libraries and resources, and may have opportunities to attend lectures and conferences featuring leading scholars in the field of world literature.

Entry requirements generally include a strong academic record in relevant fields such as literature, cultural studies, or related disciplines, along with proficiency in English. This program is ideal for students aiming to pursue doctoral research, careers in academia, publishing, or cultural policy, or those with a keen interest in understanding the interconnectedness of global literary cultures.

Throughout the course, students cultivate analytical, critical, and research skills that are invaluable across many careers, as well as a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in cross-cultural literary analysis. The program culminates in a research dissertation, demonstrating the student's ability to contribute original insights to the field of world literature studies. The vibrant academic community at Oxford provides a stimulating environment for intellectual growth, with access to renowned faculty members and a network of international students sharing diverse perspectives.