PhD Literature

PhD Literature at the University of Essex offers a research environment where students explore literature across different periods, genres, and global perspectives. The programme provides expert supervision in areas such as Early Modern Literature, Romanticism, Postcolonial Writing, Science Fiction, Eco-criticism, and Literature and Human Rights.

At the University of Essex, PhD Literature students benefit from one-to-one supervision with leading academics, access to a strong research community, and the opportunity to develop critical and creative responses to literary studies. Many graduates go on to successful careers in Academia, Publishing, Journalism, Arts, and Creative Writing. 

Whether you’re interested in full-time or part-time study, PhD Literature from the University of Essex offers the flexibility and support to help you pursue your research ambitions.

The University of Essex is where academic excellence meets innovation. Since 1964, it has promoted a culture of independent thinking and research-driven learning. It has students from more than 140 countries who are eager to make a difference.

Essex is recognised with a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), a testament to its high-quality teaching and student support. The University of Essex offers degrees in Business, Social Sciences, Humanities, Science, and Technology. It has gained a strong reputation in fields such as Human Rights, Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, and Economics.

Education at Essex goes beyond textbooks. Through internships, work placements, and entrepreneurship initiatives, students gain practical experience that gives them a competitive edge in the job market. The university’s strong industry connections ensure graduates leave with valuable skills and professional networks.

• You will typically be required to attend an interview/Skype interview for acceptance, and acceptance is subject to research expertise in the department.
• A well-developed research proposal is also essential.

Grade Requirements

• A good master's degree, or equivalent, in a related subject is required.

English Proficiency

• For students whose first language is not English, an IELTS score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in Writing is required.

The tuition fee to study PhD Literature at the University of Essex is £19,650 per year. It should be noted that fees will increase for each academic year of study.

The University of Essex recognises that financial concerns can be a challenge for international students. To help ease this burden, the university offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to support high-achieving individuals in their academic journey.

If you have excelled in your undergraduate studies, you may qualify for the Academic Excellence International Masters Scholarship, which provides up to £4,000 towards tuition fees. Students from African Union member countries can also apply for the Africa Scholarship Programme, which offers a £4,500 tuition discount for those enrolling in full-time master’s programmes.

In partnership with the British Council, Essex also offers GREAT Scholarships, awarding £10,000 to students from select countries, making it more accessible for international students to study in the UK.

If you’re looking for financial support or need help navigating scholarship options, our AHZ counsellors are here to guide you in finding the best funding opportunities for your studies.

Graduates of PhD Literature at the University of Essex are eligible to be employed in the following roles: 

• Creative Writer
• University Lecturer
• Publisher
• Editor
• Journalist 
• Arts Administrator

To apply for this course, you have to go through UCAS. For further assistance on the application process, you can get in touch with any of our trained counsellors.