MSc Accounting
The MSc Accounting at the University of Manchester, United Kingdom, is a specialized po...
BA English Literature and American Studies
Manchester, England
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The BA English Literature and American Studies program at the University of Manchester offers a unique and interdisciplinary approach that combines the study of English literature with the exploration of American culture, history, and society. This program provides students with the opportunity to examine the rich literary traditions of both the UK and the United States, studying key works of literature alongside the social, political, and cultural contexts in which they were written. The course is designed to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and an understanding of how literature reflects and influences broader societal issues, particularly those pertinent to the American experience. This program is ideal for students who have a passion for both English literature and American culture and are interested in exploring the interplay between the two.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA English Literature and American Studies program is diverse, offering students a broad range of modules that cover key periods, movements, and genres in both English and American literature. In the first and second years, students will engage with foundational texts and themes, including classic English literary works, American literature, and an introduction to American history and culture. The program emphasizes the historical development of literature, covering key periods such as the Renaissance, Romanticism, Victorian literature, and Modernism, while also providing an in-depth study of American literature from the colonial period to contemporary works. The curriculum is designed to encourage students to develop their critical and analytical abilities, enabling them to make connections between literary texts and their cultural, historical, and social contexts. In their final year, students have the opportunity to specialize in areas of personal interest, including American literature, African American literature, postcolonial studies, and more.
Research Focus: The BA English Literature and American Studies program at the University of Manchester is rooted in the university’s strong research focus. The university has a distinguished faculty with expertise in a variety of literary and cultural fields, including American literature, history, and postcolonial studies. Students benefit from being part of a research-led teaching environment, where they are encouraged to engage with current scholarly debates and undertake their own independent research. The program’s research focus includes topics such as the development of American literary traditions, the influence of race, class, and gender in literature, and the cultural intersections between English and American writing. Students are encouraged to engage with both historical and contemporary issues and explore how literature serves as a tool for social and political change.
Industry Engagement: The BA English Literature and American Studies program at the University of Manchester offers students several opportunities for industry engagement, providing them with a competitive edge in the job market. The program's diverse skill set, including research, writing, and critical analysis, is highly valued across many industries, including publishing, media, public relations, education, and government. The university has strong connections with industry partners and offers students the chance to participate in internships, work placements, and networking events. Students can gain practical experience in areas such as editing, content creation, journalism, and cultural event management. Additionally, the university’s proximity to Manchester, a thriving cultural hub, provides students with access to various cultural institutions, including literary festivals, museums, and theatres, further enhancing their industry engagement.
Global Perspective: The BA English Literature and American Studies program offers a broad, global perspective by studying both English and American literature and culture. This dual focus allows students to understand literature within its global context, exploring how it has been shaped by various cultural and historical forces. The program’s exploration of American studies encourages students to engage with issues such as immigration, racial and cultural identity, and the dynamics of American society, which have global relevance. Additionally, students have the opportunity to study abroad or participate in exchange programs, enabling them to broaden their perspectives and engage with literary and cultural traditions in different parts of the world. The program’s global perspective enhances students’ understanding of the interconnectedness of global literary traditions and prepares them to work in a variety of international contexts.
Location
Manchester, England
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 26500
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 70.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Manchester offers a range of scholarships to support international students in funding their education and making their academic journey more accessible. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, support students from diverse backgrounds, and help ease the financial challenges of studying abroad.
Global Futures Scholarship: The Global Futures Scholarship is a prestigious award for international students who demonstrate academic excellence and potential. This scholarship offers a £5,000 contribution towards tuition fees, providing financial assistance for undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship is open to students from specific countries and disciplines, so it is essential to check eligibility criteria and deadlines.
Undergraduate Scholarships: The university also offers various undergraduate scholarships for international students applying to programs such as law, business, engineering, and the humanities. These scholarships are based on academic achievement and help ease the burden of tuition fees. Some specific subject areas may have unique scholarships based on the department's needs and goals.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Many departments at the University of Manchester offer subject-specific scholarships for students enrolling in their programs. For example, students applying for programs in engineering, business, life sciences, and the arts may be eligible for additional funding based on academic performance and their future potential. These scholarships are often offered to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional skills and dedication to their field of study.
Chevening Scholarships: The Chevening Scholarship is a fully-funded award provided by the UK government, open to outstanding international students from over 160 countries. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, and other related costs. The University of Manchester is a proud participant in this global program and welcomes applications from students wishing to pursue a master's degree in a variety of disciplines.
Regional Scholarships: The university also offers regional scholarships for students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. These scholarships are designed to make studying at the University of Manchester more accessible to students from these regions and offer both partial and full financial support depending on the scholarship type.
Graduates of the BA English Literature and American Studies program from the University of Manchester are equipped with a diverse range of transferable skills, making them highly employable across various sectors. The combination of critical thinking, research, writing, and analytical skills gained through this program opens up numerous career opportunities in fields such as publishing, media, education, and the public sector.
Publishing and Editing: Graduates can pursue careers in publishing, working as editors, literary agents, or book marketers. Their expertise in analyzing literature and understanding cultural and historical contexts makes them valuable assets to publishing houses, editorial teams, and literary agencies. Graduates can also explore opportunities in digital publishing or independent publishing, particularly for academic texts or books related to American studies.
Media and Journalism: The strong writing and research skills acquired during the program are highly sought after in the media industry. Graduates can work as journalists, content creators, or copywriters, producing articles, blogs, and other content for newspapers, magazines, websites, and broadcasting organizations. Additionally, their understanding of American culture and literature enables them to write insightful pieces on contemporary American issues, books, and cultural phenomena.
Education and Teaching: With a passion for literature and history, many graduates pursue careers in teaching. They can become English or American studies teachers in secondary schools, further education institutions, or universities. To teach at a higher level, additional qualifications or postgraduate studies may be required, but the foundational knowledge gained through the program provides an excellent base for those interested in teaching literature or cultural studies.
Public Relations and Communications: The communication and writing skills that students develop throughout the program make them well-suited for roles in public relations, communications, and marketing. Graduates can work as PR specialists, social media managers, or content strategists, helping businesses and organizations craft persuasive messages and promote their brand. The ability to understand and articulate cultural and historical narratives gives them an edge in crafting compelling content for diverse audiences.
Advertising and Marketing: Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in advertising and marketing, where their creativity, communication skills, and understanding of culture are highly valued. Roles such as copywriters, account managers, and campaign strategists allow graduates to apply their literary expertise and storytelling abilities to create engaging and persuasive advertising materials. They can work in a variety of industries, including consumer goods, digital marketing, and entertainment.
Library and Information Management: Graduates with a passion for books, research, and archival work can pursue careers as librarians, archivists, or information managers. These roles involve managing collections, curating information, and assisting individuals in finding and organizing resources. Positions in public libraries, university libraries, and research institutions are potential options for graduates interested in information management and archival studies.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and International Development: For those passionate about social issues, NGOs and international development organizations offer opportunities for graduates to work in advocacy, research, or communications. The program’s focus on American studies allows graduates to understand global political and social contexts, making them well-equipped to work on international projects, human rights campaigns, or social justice initiatives. Roles in public policy, research, and communications are common in this field.
Cultural and Heritage Sector: Graduates can also work in the cultural and heritage sector, curating exhibits, managing events, or developing educational programs. They can find roles in museums, galleries, and cultural centers that focus on literature, history, and American culture. The program provides an understanding of the historical and cultural significance of literary works, which is essential for those interested in museum studies, cultural heritage management, or event planning for literary festivals and exhibitions.
Law and Public Policy: Although a non-legal degree, the BA English Literature and American Studies program’s emphasis on research, critical analysis, and communication skills can be valuable for graduates pursuing a career in law or public policy. Graduates can work as paralegals, policy analysts, or legal researchers, providing support to legal teams, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. Additionally, with further study or training, graduates may become solicitors or work in public service roles.
Freelancing and Entrepreneurship: Many graduates of the program opt for freelancing, particularly in writing, editing, or content creation. They can work as freelance journalists, copywriters, editors, or literary consultants, offering their expertise to clients across a range of industries. With the right entrepreneurial spirit, some graduates may also start their own publishing or content production businesses, providing services to other writers, authors, or organizations in need of literary expertise.
