MA handbook AH 2011-12.docx - Cardiff University

2. Master’s Degrees
Our MA programmes are designed to provide both a rewarding self-contained one-year course of
advanced study, and also a preparatory year for PhD candidates, giving a proper grounding in
research skills and methods, and the opportunity to explore an area of independent research. The
programmes are designed to conform to the patterns of research in the humanities which are
currently favoured by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, and to follow the guidelines
suggested by relevant academic bodies such as the Council of University Classical Departments.
Aims
The main aim of these MA programmes is to provide you with the necessary advanced knowledge,
understanding and skills to carry out independent research into the ancient world.
Specifically, we intend that by the end of the programme you should have:
• acquired the essential skills needed for doing and presenting research
• developed an ability to read and analyse ancient texts in the original language
• developed a more sophisticated understanding of the latest approaches and concepts used in the
study of the ancient or medieval worlds, and learned how to apply them in your own work
• learned a lot more about your chosen area of interest
Structure
Each of our MA programmes has a similar structure, consisting of a combination of research
training, study of an ancient language, a choice of specialist thematic modules, and a dissertation.
The details of each programme are set out in the relevant section of this handbook, and brief
descriptions of all the modules can be found in the penultimate section. Note that some modules are
run by different departments within the School of History, Archaeology and Religion, and may
therefore have slightly different requirements, e.g. referencing styles or coursework submission
procedures. Ask the module tutor if you are in any doubt about what is expected.
The MA programmes all consist of a taught stage, running from October to May, followed by a
dissertation written over the summer.
A. Taught Stage (October–May)
1. Research training
Each scheme includes a number of core modules that provide training in the skills that every
researcher needs: research design, bibliographic and computer skills, dealing with source material,
and written and oral presentation. As well as being essential for advanced academic study, these are
transferable skills, which will be valuable for a career in any field. These modules are assessed by a
variety of coursework exercises.
2. Theory and methodology
Each scheme includes a core module (or a choice of core modules) that introduces you to a range of
advanced themes, approaches and methods in your chosen subject area. Assessment is normally by
a 4000-word essay, on a topic chosen by the student in consultation with a tutor.
3. Language training
The ability to study historical texts in the original language is an essential skill for advanced study
of the past, and therefore all students take modules in Greek (Classical or Byzantine), Latin
(Classical, Patristic or Medieval), Hebrew, Arabic, Aramaic or Syriac, as appropriate to their degree
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