Study at Cardiff | Postgraduate

Medieval British Studies (MA)

Course Aims

To study medieval Britain through history, archaeology, literature and religious studies, giving training and expertise for many careers including PhD programmes, the heritage sector, journalism, teaching, media research and publishing.

Special Features

• The MA in Medieval British Studies, based within the Interdisciplinary Centre for the Study of Medieval Society and Culture, is taught by medievalists from several schools within the University.

Course Description

The MA in Medieval British Studies is a self-regulated year of further study, and provides a preparatory year for PhD candidates. It gives a thorough grounding in research skills and methods, theoretical concepts and the techniques of conducting and writing up an independent research project. Consisting partly of taught courses and partly of independent research, it draws together expertise in Medieval History, Archaeology, English and Welsh to offer a challenging programme of study.

Teaching and research are tailored to the interests of individual students. The flexible degree structure permits the content of options to vary from year to year, reflecting student interests.

Assessment is via essays or a combination of coursework and written examination, depending on the modules chosen.

Course Structure

Students take a total of 180 credits of modules, consisting of:

• 20 credit module on Research Skills and Methods
• 20 credit module on Approaches to Medieval History
• 20 credits of languages
• 60 credits of option modules selected by the student
• 60 credit dissertation (topic or theme chosen by the student in consultation with academic staff)

Please see the History website for more course and module information.

Skills Acquired

On completion of the MA students will be able to:

• communicate ideas and arguments effectively
• formulate and justify arguments and conclusions, presenting appropriate supporting evidence
• an ability to modify as well as to defend their own position
• an ability to think critically and challenge assumptions
• an ability to use a range of information technology resources to assist with information retrieval and assignment presentation
• time management skills and an ability to work independently and organise their own study methods and workload
• presentation skills to present their work to the rest of the team and to wider audiences
• work effectively with others as part of a team or group in seminar or tutorial discussions

Career Prospects

Graduates of this degree programme have gone on to PhD programmes or into jobs in the heritage sector, journalism, teaching, media research (media, commercial, academic), publishing and banking.

Entry Requirements

1st or upper 2nd class UK Honours degree in an appropriate subject. Suitable for graduates in History, English, Welsh, Archaeology and related humanities and social science disciplines.

Students whose first language is not English will be required to pass an IELTS test (minimum 6.5) or equivalent.

Note: International students pursuing part-time programmes of study are not eligible for Tier 4 (General Student) visas and must have alternative leave to remain in the UK if they intend to study at the University in person.

How to Apply

Applications can be made for this course via our Online Application Service. Please select the MA Medieval British Studies option from the list of courses. Applicants should use the Personal Statement section of the form to outline their area of interest and, if possible, the topic that they hope to research for their dissertation.

funding

For more information on funding available for Masters students in the School of History, Archaeology and Religion please see the school's funding website.

Next intake: September each year

More information

• Learn more about Cardiff School of History, Archaeology and Religion
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