Course Catalogue

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The intention of the Study Option element is to provide a robust but flexible structure capable of accommodating the varying interests, competences and requirements of PG students and may incorporate elements of UG teaching through the student's auditing of one or more Honours specialist options whether in the School or elsewhere, but will centre on a programme/ contract negotiated between the student and the member of staff directing their studies in this area. In this regard, directors will provide guidance with regard to a wider and more intensive programme of primary and secondary reading than that typically found in UG options, not uncommonly characterised by a more specific and explicit thematic or research question focus than in UG options centred on a survey of a particular context, whether conceived in terms of period, genre or medium.

8 hours in total, times to be arranged in consultation with students.

Acceptance onto a Masters-Level Programme currently on offer within the University.

N/a

The standard assessments for this course are: 

■ 5,000 word essay - 100%

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available: 

■ There is no alternative to the essay, but extensions to the deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustment (students should follow the usual process for extensions).

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.  

The postgraduate directed study option in the School of Modern Languages and Cultures is designed to provide a flexible framework for accommodating student research interests aligned to the field of Moderns Languages and Cultures. The course aims to:

■ develop knowledge in a specific field related to modern language cultural studies;

■ develop a distinctive and personal critical position in relation to the field of modern language cultural studies;

■ develop independent research skills;

■ foster critical writing and presentational skills appropriate to the area of study.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ demonstrate specialist knowledge and advanced understanding in the analytical study of a selected area within European or global European cultural studies;

■ demonstrate skills in research methodology appropriate to the field;

■ situate cultural artefacts and specific issues in their historical and cultural contexts;

■ situate, evaluate and apply critical approaches relevant to the selected area of study;

■ study independently in the context of directed research activity;

■ identify, formulate and solve problems in the context of assessment work for the course;

■ demonstrate communication and presentational skills appropriate to the requirements of the course.