Lancaster University campus

Arts & Humanities

PhD English Literature at Lancaster University

Lancaster University, United Kingdom

Programme overview

Our rich literary connections extend from Lancaster's LitFest and medieval Castle to Grasmere's Wordsworth Museum You will have access to a rich array of libraries, archives and special collections, enabling you not only to develop as a scholar, or critic but also, if you wish, to develop skills relating to work as an archivist, librarian, or curator. You will meet regularly on a one-to-one basis with your tutor to discuss your work, and this can be either online or in person.

Faculty: Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences  |  Department: School of Arts  |  Duration: Full time 3 - 4 years, Part time 4 - 7 years  |  Study mode: full-time / part-time  |  Location: Lancaster, England, United Kingdom

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Academic requirements: Master's degree, or equivalent, in English literature or a related subject, such as literature in other languages, usually with an average of at least 65% for UK MAs. 2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in English Literature or related subject, for example literature in other languages. Additional requirements: A viable research proposal. Information about how to apply can be found in our Guidance for English Literature and Creative Writing PhD candidates A sample of written work such as an essay or dissertation chapter of approximately 3000-5000 words. Before submitting your application, we would recommend that you contact a potential supervisor for guidance before submitting your application. You can explore our research areas and find details of supervisors here. If you submit an application you should include the names of any potential supervisors that you have identified. English language requirements: We require an IELTS (Academic) Test with an overall score of at least 7.0, and a minimum of 6.5 in each element of the test.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). Home fee for 2026/27 (UK Research Councils standard fee level, full-time); the following year's fee is not yet set Source

Duration: Full time 3 - 4 years, Part time 4 - 7 years

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