MA Children's Literature

Summary

This degree provides a rigorous course that interrogates the literary, creative, social, cultural, political and historical contexts in the field of children's literature. You will explore landmark books such as The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe or The Railway Children, alongside the contemporary innovations of Patrick Ness or Emily Gravett.

You will work with staff who have international reputations in areas such as philosophy in children's literature, popular fiction, adolescence and Young Adult, early children's books, and writing for young people. You will also benefit from a series of guest speakers, extra-curricular activities and field trips that will enhance your student experience and ensure you get the most out of your studies, and you will have the chance of working with Roehampton's Chancellor and renowned author Professor Dame Jacqueline Wilson.

As a Children's Literature student you will become a member of the National Centre for Research in Children's Literature (NCRCL), regarded as the premier institution for children's literature research in Britain. The NCRCL has close links with organisations that work to further the study and teaching of children's literature, including The International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), Seven Stories (The National Centre for Children's Books) and Booktrust. The centre also hosts and co-organises an annual one-day British IBBY/NCRCL MA Conference and runs a regular NCRCL Conference, showcasing themes from members' research interests. Keynote speakers have included Michael Rosen, Matthew Grenby, Emer O'Sullivan, Neil Gaiman, and Julia Eccleshare. Students can also exit with PGDip award.