University of Tromsø

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in literary history and theory with independent research leading to a master’s thesis. Core elements typically include literary theory and methods, research training, and specialised seminars covering periods and themes such as medieval and early modern literature, eighteenth- and nineteenth-century studies, modernism and contemporary literature, postcolonial and transnational literatures, and digital humanities approaches.

Students can tailor their studies with electives that reflect the department's strengths, for example Arctic and Indigenous literatures, ecocriticism, gender and sexuality studies, translation studies, and cultural memory. Teaching is delivered through a mix of lectures, seminar discussions, close-reading exercises, and project work. The programme culminates in an extended independent thesis supervised by a member of the department.

• Research methods and academic writing in literary studies
• Advanced literary theory and critical practice
• Specialist seminars (e.g. modernism, postcolonial literature, digital texts)
• Optional modules reflecting regional and interdisciplinary strengths (Arctic/Indigenous literatures, ecocriticism)
• Master's thesis based on supervised independent research

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree in English, literature, or a closely related humanities discipline, with evidence of substantial undergraduate work in literature and language studies. Departments normally expect a strong academic record and demonstrated ability to undertake independent research at master’s level.

International applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications in line with the university's admissions rules. Applicants will typically submit academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests, and academic references; some applicants may be invited to an interview or to supply a writing sample.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Master in English Literature go on to a range of careers in academia and beyond. Many continue to doctoral study and research positions, while others move into teaching (often after completing teacher training), publishing, journalism, editing, and communications roles. The programme also provides skills relevant to work in cultural institutions, libraries and archives, translation and localisation, public relations, and the public sector where strong analytical, writing and research skills are valued.

The programme's emphasis on interdisciplinary and regional perspectives can be particularly useful for careers relating to Arctic studies, cultural policy, and NGOs working in northern and Indigenous contexts.

Why study at University of Tromsø

UiT The Arctic University of Norway offers a distinctive setting for English literary studies, with opportunities to engage with northern, Indigenous and transnational literatures that reflect the region's cultural and environmental contexts. The department is research-active and provides close supervision, small-group seminars and access to interdisciplinary networks across the university.

Students benefit from well-resourced libraries, digital research infrastructure and collaboration with centres working on Sami studies, Arctic humanities and environmental research. Studying in Tromsø also provides a different cultural perspective and can open pathways into research and professional work linked to the high north and international cultural exchange.

The programme is suitable for students who want rigorous training in literary scholarship combined with the flexibility to pursue specialised topics and prepare for doctoral study or a broad range of professional careers.