English MRes
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The MRes in English is designed to allow you to develop and complete an independent research project in English literature and/or language, with the support of a well-qualified supervisor. An initial Research Methods module will ensure that you have the necessary skills to advance to the dissertation.
Your supervisor will be an active researcher in the field you wish to explore and can, therefore, offer expert guidance to help you shape your own project and develop as an independent researcher. You will also be joining a dynamic community of postgraduate researchers. We recognise the importance of pastoral care and offer a supportive environment in which to learn and study.
Develop advanced research and communication skills
Pursue your research passion
Join a dynamic research community
What You'll Study
MODULES
- Research Methods (20 Credits) Core: This module will introduce you to relevant research methodologies. You'll identify your own research needs as you begin postgraduate study in English language and/or literature, and you'll engage with key methodologies and critical debates, while developing a strong understanding of research practices relevant to your dissertation.
- Cultural and Literary Debates (20 Credits) Core: You'll engage with contemporary and historical debates relevant to English language and/or literature, examining the evolution and significance of the subjects across different contexts, equipping you with the skills and critical frameworks needed for Master's-level research. Through guided reading and discussion, you'll develop advanced analytical, interpretative and practical skills to support your dissertation.
- Research Dissertation (140 Credits) Core: All students will produce a 28,000-word literature and/or language dissertation inspired in different ways by an aspect of English studies. An appropriate supervisor will be assigned to you, from either a literature and/or language background, and their guidance, advice and support will be given through regular one-to-one tutorials and email contact. The supervisor will provide considerable academic and practical assistance; however, the dissertation will be the result of your own independent research.
The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.
How we teach at the University of Chester
Teaching
While the MRes requires substantial independent study, you will be expected to have regular meetings with your supervisor, attend seminars and other research skills training events, and use the online Postgraduate Research Development tools. You will also be expected to attend postgraduate and staff research seminars.
Assessment
You will be assessed through coursework (e.g., book reviews, annotated bibliographies, essays, reports, presentations) and a dissertation. The dissertation will develop from your initial research proposal; this will be an original contribution to your field of study.
Your Future Career
Job prospects
The MRes is an ideal pathway to a PhD for those who are considering a future career in academia, but the strengths developed during the degree, such as advanced communication, analytical and research skills, will be attractive to employers in a wide range of fields.
Careers service
The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.
Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.
We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs .
Entry Requirements
2:1 honours degree
Applicants normally require a 2:1 honours degree in English Literature, English Language, or English Literature and Language, but consideration will be given to those who hold a lower classification who can demonstrate they are capable of performing at the level required to complete the course successfully. Applicants are subject to written application, research proposal, evidence of written work, references, and interview.
Before applying, please complete the online enquiry form. Include a paragraph outlining your proposed research topic, so that we can advise on the project’s viability and the availability of expert supervision. Be specific about, for example, key texts, authors, historical periods, linguistic corpora, hypotheses, theoretical approaches, and methodologies. If the project seems suitable, you will be invited to apply or contacted by a potential supervisor to clarify your research topic.
If you are invited to apply, your application should include a detailed research proposal of approximately three pages (including a short bibliography) and an essay of 2,000–3,000 words on any aspect of English Literature or English Language.
2:1 honours degree
Applicants normally require a 2:1 honours degree in English Literature, English Language, or English Literature and Language, but consideration will be given to those who hold a lower classification who can demonstrate they are capable of performing at the level required to complete the course successfully. Applicants are subject to written application, research proposal, evidence of written work, references, and interview.
Before applying, please complete the online enquiry form. Include a paragraph outlining your proposed research topic, so that we can advise on the project’s viability and the availability of expert supervision. Be specific about, for example, key texts, authors, historical periods, linguistic corpora, hypotheses, theoretical approaches, and methodologies. If the project seems suitable, you will be invited to apply or contacted by a potential supervisor to clarify your research topic.
If you are invited to apply, your application should include a detailed research proposal of approximately three pages (including a short bibliography) and an essay of 2,000–3,000 words on any aspect of English Literature or English Language.
English Language Requirements
For more information on our English Language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.
Fees and Funding
£5,006per year full time (2025/26)
The tuition fees for home students studying Postgraduate Research Programmes in the academic year 2025/26 are £5,006 per year full time.
£15,084per year full time (2025/26)
The tuition fees for international students studying Postgraduate Research Programmes (Classroom) in the academic year 2025/26 are £15,084 per year.
The tuition fees for international students studying Postgraduate Research Programmes (Laboratory) in the academic year 2025/26 are £19,133 per year.
For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section.
Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.
Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees.
The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships.
Full details, as well as terms and conditions for all bursaries and scholarships can be found on the Fees and Finance section of our website.
Dr Graham Atkin
Senior Lecturer
Dr Ashley Chantler
Senior Lecturer
Dr Jo Close
Senior Lecturer
Dr Richard Leahy
Senior Lecturer
Dr Harry Parkin
Senior Lecturer