MA Nineteenth-Century Studies

Overview

Course Length:	1 Year Full-Time, 2 Years Part-Time
Start Dates:	September 2022
Subjects:	English History
Location:	Edge Hill University

Please note, this programme is closed to further applications from international students for September 2021 entry.

Devised by leading experts in the literature, history, cultural heritage and digital humanities of the nineteenth century, this interdisciplinary taught Masters degree enables you to explore a range of classic and less well-known texts to gain advanced skills in academic writing and research. From discussions of Romantic creativity to Victorian entertainments, as well as fin de siècle fears and horrors, you will investigate how contemporary debates and developments around the nineteenth century continue to shape popular culture today. You will participate in field trips and have the opportunity to work with cultural heritage organisations to explore the lasting legacies of the period. Whether you are a graduate with an interest in nineteenth century literature and culture, a current or aspiring educational or cultural heritage professional, or seeking to develop expert knowledge in preparation for a PhD, this programme offers the study of an area of historical specialism that showcases how to apply a broad range of transferable skills to educational and heritage settings.

In Depth

What will I study?

The programme introduces you to the key research skills and concepts required for nineteenth century studies. These range from developing referencing, writing and editing skills at a postgraduate standard to working with physical and digital archives and presenting the results of your research in an appropriate manner.

Exploring a range of different periods and approaches to the literature and history of the nineteenth century, the programme examines theoretical perspectives on the Romantic period, engages you in close analysis of Victorian literature, and reveals digital techniques for uncovering forgotten fragments of late-Victorian popular culture and entertainment. You will also have the option to explore crime and the evolution of attitudes towards criminality through the nineteenth century.

There is the additional opportunity to undertake a work-based project. This will enable you to enhance your employability by undertaking a work placement with one of our partner organisations, or by working independently, and encourage you to think about how to apply your research knowledge to careers in academia and beyond.

The culmination of the programme will be the production of your own substantial independent research project in a focused area of study, supported by the guidance of leading experts in the field.

How will I study?

If you are studying the programme on a full-time basis, you will typically be required to attend two two-hour classes each week. These will usually take place in the afternoon and early evening of the same day. Part-time students will typically attend one two-hour session per week in the early evening.

Teaching will comprise a range of short lectures, skills workshops, seminar discussions and tutorials. There will also be opportunities for independent work-related learning and independent study, both of which will be supported by one-to-one supervision from subject specialists.

The programme will include field trips to established partners such as the Atkinson in Southport, the Wordsworth Trust in Grasmere, and the Bronte Parsonage in Haworth.

In addition to this, you will be involved in organising an annual conference and participate in a critical reading group which has the responsibility of inviting speakers to the EHU Nineteen seminar series.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed through a combination of critical essays, presentations, primary source analysis, close readings, referencing exercises, critical reflections and a dissertation.

There are no formal written examinations as part of the current assessment methods on this programme.

Who will be teaching me?

You will be taught by a team of specialist tutors who are active researchers and committed teachers. Their interests include Romantic period women’s writing, Victorian and neo-Victorian literature, nineteenth century periodicals, Victorian popular culture, gender theory, masculinity studies, children’s literature, reception theory, the Gothic, and digital humanities.

More information on the programme team’s research specialisms is available on the EHU Nineteen Research Group website at www.edgehill.ac.uk/nineteen.

You will also have the opportunity to attend talks from a range of external speakers, including collaborators from some of our heritage partners.

A Great Study Environment

Students gather in the foyer and reception area of the Main Building. The Department of English, History and Creative Writing is based in the Main Building at the centre of the campus, near the £26m Catalyst building which includes the University library.

A prime example of 1930s architecture, the Main Building has undergone extensive refurbishment to combine a traditional setting with modern facilities, including the £15m Student Hub.

The building includes lecture theatres, seminar and tutorial rooms, which are ideal for group discussions and one-to-one tuition, as well as IT resources and social learning spaces.

Modules

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LIT4000Research Skills (30 credits)

Research Skills serves as a practical and theoretical introduction to research methods in nineteenth century studies. The module introduces you to shared concepts and themes in studying the literature, history and culture of the nineteenth century. You will discover the variety of approaches and perspectives that you might employ in the study of nineteenth century culture and apply this understanding to critical and historical texts.