Languages and Cultures (research route) MA

The MA Languages and Cultures is a research-focused programme which enables students to pursue specialist Masters-level research into the cultures associated with the following language areas: East Asian; French; German; Italian; Middle Eastern; Russian and Eastern European; Spanish, Portuguese and Latin American. `Cultures' is understood in the broadest sense: students may wish to specialize in historical, literary, religious, or artistic aspects of relevant countries from the pre-modern period to the present day. Applicants may choose to specialize in any area covered by the unparalleled breadth of research expertise available among academic staff within the School of Language, Linguistics and Cultures. The programme provides intensive training in research, and in related high-level transferable skills, in preparation for PhD studies at research universities. It is also aimed at students who will be heavily involved in research-based activities outside academia (e.g. as analysts in the commercial and finance industry, or as policy analysts in government departments or city councils).

The programme aims to enhance students' specialist knowledge and their intellectual, analytical, and research skills so that they are in a position to undertake doctoral research, should they choose to do so. It also develops their ability to work effectively and independently in any academic or research context and prepares them for specific careers that require work on small or large-scale research projects. We aim to produce graduates of high professional employability and broad liberal education. The programme represents an important contribution to social responsibility by educating graduates about linguistic, religious and cultural differences and by preparing them to exercise social and academic leadership.

The programme is structured as follows:

Taught component (60 credits), including compulsory research skills and methods and other optional MA units

• Individually supervised research essays (2 x 15 credits)
• 30,000-word dissertation (90 credits)

The MA Languages and Cultures allows students to specialize from the outset, and is oriented towards developing and demonstrating research skills through substantial written projects and associated practical exercises, supported by individual academic supervision. This provides tailor-made preparation for a future PhD, but it also offers considerable advantages as a stand-alone degree. MA Languages and Cultures offers a high-quality exit point for students who may not wish to continue in academia but who are interested in pursuing a research career in an industry or the public sector.