MA Shakespeare Studies

This programme offers an unrivalled opportunity to study Shakespeare in the heart of his hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon.

Delivered by and taught at The Shakespeare Institute, it develops a critical but appreciative understanding of Shakespeare’s contribution to literary and theatrical history, and the place his works occupy in today’s cultural landscape.

It provides you with a rigorous and wide-ranging knowledge of approaches to the study of Shakespeare, with emphasis on criticism, textual studies, the plays in performance, and the history of Shakespeare's reception.

The dynamism of the programme owes much to the sheer diversity of critical, theatrical, and historical approaches. It offers sustained study in a variety of fields, drawing on the special interests of a dedicated team of Shakespeare scholars.

It has proved invaluable for students heading towards a variety of careers, and it provides a solid foundation for research at a higher level.

Employabilty

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
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Modules

  • Plays and Poems A
  • Plays and Poems B
  • Research Skills and Methods
  • History of Shakespeare in Performance
  • Shakespeare and Early Modern Playhouse Culture
  • Shakespeare and Theatre Practice
  • Shakespeare’s Legacy
  • Early Modern Drama: Middleton and Jonson
  • History of Shakespeare Criticism
  • Shakespeare’s Craftsmanship
  • Textual Studies in Shakespeare
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    £20,160 Per Year

    International student tuition fee

    1 Year

    Duration

    Sep 2025

    Start Month

    Aug 2025

    Application Deadline

    Upcoming Intakes

    • September 2025
    • September 2026

    Mode of Study

    • Full Time