Contemporary Literatures MA

University of Brighton

Intro

This master’s degree celebrates and debates global contemporary literatures, literary cultures and history.

At Brighton, we believe that humanist engagement in contemporary issues demands engaged citizens – and our MA enables our students to analyse, produce and experience intellectually and politically engaged writing and literature which responds to cultural and social change.

You will examine how the world is debated, represented and challenged through fiction and text. We ask you to think critically about topical issues so you develop an understanding of your own and others' place as critical readers, writers and media-producers, performers and consumers in local and global contexts.

By exploring concepts such as globalisation and environmentalism, and by reflecting on the legacy of colonialism, you will investigate how these ideas produced literary categories such as global English, postcolonial literature and world literature, particularly through two core modules in semester 1 – Literatures and the Contemporary World, and Writing Black Britain.

The programme includes a placement, providing valuable experience, and option modules allow you to specialise within the field. You can choose to study partly as a distance learner, guided by our team of supportive lectures who have diverse expertise within contemporary literature.

Careers

Our Contemporary Literatures MA will develop your confidence with research, critical writing and close analytical reading. You will also focus on specific discipline-based skills such as analytical writing, creative thinking, and speaking and giving presentations to enhance your communication skills, which are valued in professions such as publishing, teaching, marketing, PR, journalism and politics.

The Communities in Practice placement module is a great opportunity to gain experience and insight into work-based practices. You’ll enhance your research or craft and also your understanding of how processes might be applied to a real-life scenario or setting.

Advice, guidance and support are provided throughout the degree to assist you in moving on to your next challenge – whether that be bringing new skills to a current career, moving towards a new career goal, or extending your studying to PhD level.