MA Medieval Studies(Part-Time)

Year 2

(Award available for year: Master of Arts)

Learning outcomes

On completion of the programme students should have shown:

- reading knowledge of one of the languages read or spoken internationally in medieval Europe (Latin, Greek or Hebrew);
- competence in one or more specialist skills or methodologies for working with a category of materials for medieval studies;
- detailed knowledge of one or more thematic topics in medieval studies that demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of concepts, information and techniques at the forefront of the field;
- ability to conduct independent, supervised original research on a specific medieval topic that demonstrates
- understanding of techniques applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship;
- ability to proactively formulate ideas and hypotheses and to develop, implement and execute plans by which to evaluate these;
- expertise in making critical and practically-based assessments of primary sources from the medieval period; and
- skills in bibliographic research methodologies and presentation of written work.
2. Systematically use and appraise a wide range of bibliographies, reference works and other aids to research in Medieval Studies;

3. Analyse critically approaches to primary materials of different kinds, in both printed and manuscript form, as well as aspects of material culture relevant to the study of the Middle Ages;

4. Evaluate accurately a range of research methodologies and approaches to the study of the medieval past;

5. Initiate, research, and complete an advanced level research project.

Skills Learning Outcomes
1. Conduct structured research enquiries that consist of setting tasks, and locating, synthesising and analysing evidence;  

2. Work independently, while engaging positively with supervision and guidance;  

3. Critically navigate the challenges faced in interpreting complex, ambiguous, conflicting, and often incomplete materials and evidence;

4. Assess constructively different arguments and evidence, using evidence to form arguments and ideas.  

Transferable (key) skills

Masters (Taught), Postgraduate Diploma & Postgraduate Certificate students will have had the opportunity to acquire the following abilities as defined in the modules specified for the programme:

- the skills necessary to undertake a higher research degree;
- self direction and effective decision making in complex and unpredictable situations;
- independent learning and the ability to work in a way which ensures continuing professional development;
- critical engagement in the development of the boundaries and norms of the field.

Assessment

Achievement for the degree of Master (taught programme) will be assessed by a variety of methods in accordance with the learning outcomes of the modules specified for the programme and will involve the achievement of the students in:

- evidencing an ability to conduct independent in-depth enquiry within the discipline;
- demonstrating the ability to apply breadth and/or depth of knowledge to a complex specialist area;
- drawing on a range of perspectives on an area of study;
- evaluating and criticising received opinion;
- making reasoned judgements whilst understanding the limitations on judgements made in the absence of complete data.