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MA Comparative Literature and Critical Theories

The Comparative Literature and Critical Theories degree from University of Birmingham is an interdisciplinary, transnational programme. It invites students to engage with crucial debates about the different ways in which cultures across time and space have understood the relationship between literature and the world, the concept of representation and the role of the author in the cultural domain.

Quick Facts

  
Duration: 1 year (Full-Time)
2 years (Part-Time)
Starting in: September
Tuition Fee: £21,150 per year
Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom

Students may choose to work with materials in the Special Collections dealing with manuscript culture, the literatures of the Near and Middle East, and word/image relations.

The Comparative Literature and Critical Theories degree from University of Birmingham has been designed to prepare students for future PhD level study in interdisciplinary and transregional literary studies as well as to prepare students for a range of careers outside academia requiring transcultural expertise.

It is particularly relevant for: international students seeking an introduction to UK academia; students interested in careers with international NGOs, in International Relations or in politics that require language skills and cultural knowledge; those interested in Arts & Humanities charities; students seeking qualification in specific languages, regions, and literary and cultural methodologies.

Courses included:

  • Global Critical Theory
  • World Literatures Compared
  • Research Methods in Critical Cultural Studies
  • Global Histories: Comparisons and Connections
  • Ethics and Global Ethics
  • Global Literatures in Britain
  • Muslim Women’s Popular Fiction
  • Nation and Identity

“The transition from undergrad to postgrad can be a big step up in terms of workload and what is expected of you, but there is so much support available to you as a postgrad student, from academic writing support (if you’ve been out of education for a few years or just want a bit of extra help) to mental health and wellbeing services. The careers support is fantastic – the uni puts on employer fairs throughout the year and you have access to one on one support from the Careers Network team, who can help you develop your skills ready for your next step!”

Emma Sutton // PhD Psychology

Careers

Your degree will provide excellent preparation for your future career, but this can also be enhanced by a range of employability support services offered by the University and the College of Arts and Law.

The University’s Careers Network provides expert guidance and activities especially for postgraduates, which will help you achieve your career goals. The College of Arts and Law also has a dedicated careers and employability team who offer tailored advice and a programme of College-specific careers events.

You will be encouraged to make the most of your postgraduate experience and will have the opportunity to:

  • Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique, whether you are looking for a career inside or outside of academia
  • Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations
  • Attend an annual programme of careers fairs, skills workshops and conferences, including bespoke events for postgraduates in the College of Arts and Law
  • Take part in a range of activities to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers and enhance your CV

What’s more, you will be able to access our full range of careers support for up to 2 years after graduation.

Requirements

  • The programme allows for multi-disciplinary entry. You will need an upper second-class Honours degree (2:1) or equivalent if you were educated outside of the UK.

Learn more