Durham University Postgraduate Prospectus 2022 - Arts and Humanities

Be Inspired Postgraduate Prospectus 2022 Arts and Humanities

08 Visit us Don’t just read about how extraordinary Durham is – come and visit us.

Our open days are a great way to find out more about postgraduate study at Durham.

You will have a chance to speak with our academic staff to find out more about your area of interest.

Learn about ways of funding your studies and hear from some of our current students about what it’s like to live and study in Durham.

Welcome to Durham University A historic institution

Colleges and accommodation Our collegiate system

World-class qualifications Fascinating courses taught by leading experts

Wider student experience Enjoy support and inspiration

Research degrees Part of the elite Russell Group of institutions Global impact A truly international university A campus for the future World-class facilities Supporting your studies Looking after your wellbeing Enhance your employability Pursue the career you want

Register your interest and we will keep you updated on our forthcoming events for postgraduates.

Discover Durham City Friendly and welcoming Explore North East England A unique regional identity

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Global impact Examples of our research and the positive effect it is having.

Durham Students’ Union The champion of every student Funding and finance Understand the costs involved Apply to Durham Join our community of extraordinary people Courses Our courses for 2022

Professional development Opportunities to enhance your abilities Our location In the heart of a vibrant region

World-class qualifications and courses taught by leading experts.

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Our courses Our postgraduate courses can take you where you want to go.

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Inspiring your success In your college and beyond, a huge variety of sports, societies and more opportunities are waiting for you.

Sign up here

CONTACTS T: +44 (0) 191 334 1000 W: durham.ac.uk/study/askus Learn more

“Durham has developed my ability to think deeply and read widely around the subject.”

Laura Day

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FIND OUT MORE Questions about applying for postgraduate study at Durham? Contact the Recruitment and Admissions Office.

Looking for further information about postgraduate research opportunities?

Please contact the relevant department.

durhamuniversity

@durhamuniversity

@durham_uni #DUinspire

@thedurhamstudent

DurhamUniversity

durham-student.org

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Inspiration for your future A postgraduate degree from Durham puts you in an outstanding position for a career to change the world.

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Welcome to Durham University A globally outstanding centre of teaching and research excellence, a collegiate community of inspiring people, a unique and historic setting – a university like no other.

We might be one of the UK’s oldest universities, but we have a pioneering mindset and an open, inclusive outlook.

Choose from over 200 postgraduate degrees, taught by worldleading experts in first-class facilities, and actively benefit from the cutting-edge research taking place right here in the University.

Whether you’re looking to connect with international industry and business through your work, or the global academic research community, you’ll have the freedom and facilities to explore what’s important to you.

World Top

100

university, ranked 82nd in the QS World University Rankings 2022.

Top 10

of our students are involved in sport, music, theatre, volunteering or student enterprise.

More than

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UK university, ranked 5th in The Guardian University Guide 2022 and 6th in The Complete University Guide 2022.

With a mutually supportive and diverse group of exceptional peers and supervisors, you’ll push the boundaries of current thinking and research. Together, you’ll embrace innovation, inspire change, and answer the big questions.

85%

countries are represented here, creating a diverse and welcoming community.

90% of our subjects are ranked in the UK top 10 in The Complete University Guide 2022.

You can also expect the warmest of welcomes into our collegiate family. And all this within the evocative and historic surroundings of the city, county and community that is Durham.

So, if you’re looking for excellent teaching and research opportunities, outstanding facilities, and a unique college experience, look no further.

Are you ready to achieve something truly outstanding?

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54th

in the world for employer reputation in the QS World University Rankings 2022.

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Our

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colleges provide a sense of community and belonging. All of our colleges embrace the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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World-class qualifications At Durham you’ll find a wide range of fascinating courses, taught by world-leading experts.

You’ll have the freedom and facilities you need to explore what’s important to you, as well as the support of a diverse group of exceptional peers and supervisors. You’ll be both challenged and a challenger. You’ll push the boundaries of current thinking and research to achieve something truly extraordinary.

There are many different ways to study at our globally outstanding university. Apply for a taught course and learn through lectures, seminars, and practical-based study. Or carry out your own studies under expert supervision as part of a postgraduate research degree.

Postgraduate taught courses Whatever you’re interested in and whatever you want to achieve, you’ll find the support, inspiration, and facilities you need to achieve something extraordinary.

Bringing together core and optional modules, you’ll learn through a combination of lectures, seminars, practicals, and tutorials, culminating in a substantial dissertation or research project.

Choose from over 200 postgraduate taught courses in a variety of different subject areas, leading to qualifications such as Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Postgraduate Diplomas.

As well as timetabled classes with key department staff, you’ll be expected to undertake a significant amount of independent study and general reading to broaden your knowledge and develop an in-depth understanding of the concepts and methods found within your specialist area.

Outstanding teaching Delivering cutting-edge, research-led education is at the very heart of everything we do.

Our academic staff are so much more than lecturers teaching from books. They carry out ground-breaking research that shapes our departments, inspires our courses, and directly informs our teaching.

You’ll learn from world leaders and actively benefit from the world-class research taking place right here in the University.

What to expect If you’re looking to expand your knowledge and develop your skills through a structured degree, a postgraduate taught course could be ideal for you.

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As you produce your final research piece, you’ll have the opportunity to specialise further into your chosen subject area, with support from your academic supervisor.

I can explore my interests in a supportive and intellectually rigorous environment.

Entry requirements For most Masters degrees, you’ll need a good undergraduate degree (usually at least a 2:1) or an equivalent qualification in a relevant subject. Some courses will also have additional requirements, such as relevant work experience.

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Watch the film The benefits of postgraduate taught study Postgraduate study will allow you to expand your knowledge, develop your skills, specialise in a particular area, or make a career change. It could also provide the foundation for further study at research degree level. Whatever your next steps, a postgraduate degree from Durham will ensure you’re on the path to achieve something extraordinary.

Beth Brewer

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Research degrees We are among an elite group of the UK’s research-led universities.

Durham is a proud member of the Russell Group of research-intensive universities. We offer a wide range of world-class research degrees, including: • Masters by Research, including MA, MSc, and MJur. Completed over one year full-time or two years part-time • Masters by Research, including MLitt, MMus, and MPhil.

Completed over two years full-time or four years part-time • Doctoral Awards for PhD, DThM, and DBA. Completed over three years full-time or six years part-time.

Doctoral awards Doctoral degrees, such as the PhD, are the highest level of degree you can achieve. Having a Doctoral degree indicates that you’re an expert in your chosen area of study. Any research undertaken for your PhD must be original and should aim to make a significant new contribution to a field of knowledge.

Over the course of your study, you will produce a supervised thesis of up to 100,000 words and discuss your findings in an oral examination known as a viva voce. It’s important that your thesis shows evidence of originality and your research capabilities. It should also be suitable for publication.

What to expect As a postgraduate research student at Durham you’ll have the freedom and facilities to explore what’s important to you. You’ll conduct your own project with the support of at least two academic supervisors, who will help you undertake your research and ensure you complete your degree on time.

Your supervisory team will have appropriate expertise in your area of study, and will have undergone extensive training and mentoring programmes to ensure they deliver high-quality supervision.

Durham is a world-class centre for research. As a postgraduate researcher, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to the research impact of your department by presenting papers at seminars and conferences, and by working closely with your inspiring community of peers and supervisors. At PhD level, you may also be able to teach undergraduate classes during your degree course.

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The opportunity to conduct ‘hands-on’ research in archives across the UK has been exciting. It has helped to refine my own research skills, and provided useful material for my PhD studies.

Daniel Adamson

The benefits of postgraduate research study As you complete your postgraduate research degree, you’ll be making a significant contribution towards your chosen field. Your work could influence others in the future, opening up an incredibly diverse range of career options, whether you intend to stay in academia or explore opportunities further afield.

If you’re hoping to pursue a career in academia, with a role in researching or higher education teaching, a PhD is an essential qualification. You’ll also gain highly transferable skills, including analytical, intellectual, and research skills, which are desirable across all industries.

Entry requirements To study a Masters by Research course at Durham, you’ll need a good undergraduate degree (usually at least a 2:1) or an equivalent qualification in a relevant subject. For Doctoral awards, you’ll need a Masters degree in a relevant subject.

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Global impact Join a truly international university.

Here are just a few examples of the huge range of research activities that we are involved in and the positive effect that they are having on the world around us.

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KEY Matariki Network partners

Student exchange agreements

Joint programmes

Partner universities

Plus more than 200 agreements in Europe

Covid-19

Energy and Clean Growth

How dogs could join the fight against Covid-19 A specialist team of researchers is finding out if specially-trained bio-detection dogs could be used as a new rapid testing measure for Covid-19.

Shaping the future of energy Our researchers are helping to address the world’s energy challenges as we switch from fossil fuels to clean energy sources.

Watch the film

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Watch the film

Process Industries and Surface Science Developing a simple mesh to clean up oil spills Our surface scientists have developed a coated mesh, which could be a faster and more eco-friendly way to clean up oil.

Watch the film

Heritage and Culture

Hazard and Risk

Cosmology and Astronomy

Exploring the Forbidden City A new collaboration with China’s Palace Museum means that our archaeologists are the first UK university team to work inside the walls of the Forbidden City.

Giving women a voice in disaster risk reduction Women in Nepal are having a say in how to reduce the risk of disasters such as fires and landslides, thanks to Durham research.

Increasing our knowledge of the universe Our astrophysicists, cosmologists and space scientists are searching for answers to some of the biggest questions in physics today.

China

Watch the film

Nepal

Watch the film

Universe

Watch the film

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The University students and staff are passionate and inspiring people.

There is a culture of healthy competition which really pushes you to ‘be the best you can be’ both academically and in your societies.

The opportunities I had at Durham led directly to some work experience which turned into a job – without that experience, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Alexandra Hamilton

BA (Hons) English Literature and MA Medieval and Renaissance Literary Studies graduate.

Weather Presenter and Broadcast Journalist at the BBC. Accredited APMG Change Management Practitioner.

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Let our facilities inspire you Whether your research centres around Durham’s labs or libraries, our facilities are recognised globally as being among the very best.

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A sustainable campus for the future World-class students.

World-class facilities.

At Durham, you’ll find purpose-built lecture theatres and seminar rooms, as well as state-of-the-art labs and libraries, museums and archives with global research collections.

We are investing IT facilities Technology evolves at an incredible rate. We ensure that you have access to the very latest in digital technology. Our IT facilities include: Learn Ultra - a virtual learning environment; Encore lecture capture technology so you can replay lectures at your own pace; a Microsoft Office 365 account; and wireless coverage across campus.

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Teaching and Learning Centre We’re committed to the continual development of our state-of-the-art campus. Our Teaching and Learning Centre is home to cutting-edge facilities, the latest digital technologies, and a range of new learning environments, including lecture theatres, education laboratories and classrooms designed for real-time, international collaboration.

£350m in over 20 estate

projects between 2017 and 2027.

University Library and Collections Our libraries and collections give you over two million reasons to come to Durham, including 1.6 million books; 400,000 online resources; 100,000 photographs and 82,000 museum objects.

Our facilities are available to all Durham students, so discover for yourself how our libraries, museums and special collections can contribute to your studies and research and empower you to achieve the best that you can.

Anytime, anywhere: Our extensive online offer enables you to access resources, collections, exhibitions, digitised materials, open access research and support. We also provide a gateway to collections held outside the University Step Inside: We have flexible study spaces to meet your needs, from research-based viewing rooms to individual and group study spaces.

Our libraries and venues are designed around you, making them accessible and welcoming.

Be Inspired: The many inspirational items we hold in our world-class museums, galleries and archives contribute to teaching and learning across the institution, helping to inspire creative and dynamic projects from students across all subjects. Our cultural engagement is an ever-growing entity, with religious festivals, art exhibitions and international projects enhancing your studies and your student experience.

Always here: We’re here to help you with your queries and to navigate our spaces and services, both online and in person, 24/7.

You will find us approachable and supportive. Our knowledgeable and passionate staff will enable you develop your information skills to use our collections, resources, access other international research material and apply them to your learning.

Bill Bryson Library is our main University Library where you will find a fantastic range of resources to support your studies.

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Our University, our planet At Durham University we’re developing new ways of thinking, shaping a better future for people and planet…

#1 Eco campus

Our staff and students are working together to make our campus, communities and our planet a better, greener, more sustainable and healthier place to be.

Sustainable Development Goals We’re proud to have been named as one of the world’s top universities for our contribution to a number of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

A new set of rankings places us in the top 50 in four SDGs: Sustainable Cities and Communities; Responsible Consumption and Production; Life on Land; and Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

We also appear in the world top 100 in a further seven SDGs: Reduced Inequalities, No Poverty, Life Below Water, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Climate Action, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and Zero Hunger.

World-leading environmental research We aim to lead society in becoming more environmentally sustainable, through our world-leading research.

Experts from the Durham Energy Institute are looking at ways to heat homes and workplaces by harnessing the warm water in abandoned coal mines, our physicists are working on ways to make solar power cheaper and more efficient and our surface scientists developed a coated mesh to help clean up oil spills.

And that’s just for starters…

#5 We’re constantly reducing

We’re proud to have been awarded ‘Platinum’ for EcoCampus, a scheme that helps UK colleges and universities manage their environmental impact.

our impact on the environment by cutting out single use plastics.

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technologies including ground source heat pumps and solar panels on campus so we can generate our own electricity and we don’t invest in companies in fossil fuel extraction!

take part in a range of environmental volunteering, including working with wildlife trusts, in local conservation areas and organising beach cleans and litter picks.

#6 We inspire our students to

#2 Our Students’ Union has

be responsible citizens. For example: at the end of each academic year, rather than throw away belongings they no longer want, students can donate them to charity through our Green Move Out project.

seven societies focused on environmental issues: Beekeeping, Embrace the Waste, Sustainable Fashion, and Finance, Students for Sustainable Living and the Vegetarian and Vegan Society.

#4 We’ve recently There are so many ways in which you can make a difference at Durham University.

See durham.ac.uk/greenspace @DUGreenspace Find out how our students are making an impact at sites.durham.ac.uk/studentblog

#7 We have renewable

#3 Our staff and students

launched our Integrated Sustainable Travel Plan, to enable staff and students to choose active transport.

#8 We shop local, our food

suppliers use local growers and local produce as much as possible.

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Supporting your studies We don’t just provide academic support. We care about your personal wellbeing too.

Support for autistic students We are a partner in the autism&uni initiative, which aims to assist autistic students in their higher education transitions. Our dedicated web page provides a toolkit to help you through all stages of applying to, studying at and progressing from university.

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Disability support Whether you’ve got a disability, a medical or mental health condition, or a specific learning difficulty, our specialist Disability Support Service will be on hand to offer advice and guidance. It’s important that you let us know your requirements when you apply so we can make sure we have the appropriate support in place before you start your course.

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Chaplaincy and faith provision We’re proud to be a multicultural, multi-faith community.

We celebrate our differences and firmly believe they make us stronger. Our Network of University Chaplains is committed to welcoming and supporting students of all faiths, and those of none. We provide dedicated facilities for our main religious communities, including prayer rooms, events and societies, single-sex accommodation, and kosher and halal dining. If you have any special requirements related to your faith, please let us know.

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Counselling Throughout your time at Durham, you’ll have access to our Counselling service.

Whatever you might be going through, our team of trained and experienced counsellors, psychological wellbeing practitioners and mental health advisors will be on hand to offer you support and share their expertise.

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Health and wellbeing A healthy lifestyle and overall sense of wellbeing will help ensure that your time here is the best it can be. Our Student Wellbeing Office runs a proactive student wellbeing programme of activities, events and campaigns.

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Childcare and local schools Balancing childcare and postgraduate study can be challenging. Our day nursery provides high-quality childcare for children aged between 0 and 5. So you can rest assured that your little ones are being cared for in a safe and stimulating environment, while you focus on your studies.

Learn more For a list of local primary and secondary schools, and information on applying for a place for your child, see below.

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Supportive environment Our Student Support Services are located at the Palatine Centre.

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Enhance your employability Inspiring you to achieve something truly outstanding.

When you study at Durham, you’ll graduate with so much more than a postgraduate degree. You’ll have the chance to develop your research skills, explore your career options, and ensure you have the best possible start to your future.

How do we know? Our graduate success rates speak for themselves! Our graduates have found work in a range of roles in national and international companies, including global names such as IBM, the United Nations, Saatchi & Saatchi, Deloitte, the NHS, EDF Energy, the BBC, The Times, and the Civil Service.

Careers & Enterprise Centre Through the Careers & Enterprise Centre, we will support you in pursuing your career or ambitions. Our services include: • Expert advice. Support and guidance with CVs, applications, and interview preparation.

• Build your network. Meet recruiting employers from a range of industries and alumni working in a diverse range of sectors. Attend careers fairs and employer networking events.

• Develop your skills. Give yourself the best chance of success with communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.

• Online vacancies. Explore graduate opportunities, internships, and part-time jobs.

• Start up. Support for new ventures, including coaching sessions, workshops, funding and co-working space on campus.

• Exclusive work experience opportunities. Access work experience opportunities in a range of sectors, exclusively available to students and graduates.

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An inspirational, inclusive community When you graduate from Durham, you’ll join an active and inspiring alumni community. Our Development and Alumni Relations Office supports our alumni around the world.

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Award-winning enterprise Sphera, formerly known as Plastech Innovation started life as a challenge as part of our Mini MBA, but fast became a successful start-up business.

With support from the University, founders Natasha, Scott and Phil have manged to secure funding and have already won a number of business awards.

92%

of UK and EU taught and research leavers went into work or further study within fifteen months of leaving Durham (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018/19)

Watch the film

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Professional development Prepare to achieve something extraordinary.

Whether you want to enhance your career options or you’re considering a career in academia and want to develop your knowledge in a specific field, you’ll have opportunities for professional development.

If you’re in the early stages of a career in research, ongoing professional development is vital.

Through the Durham Centre for Academic Development, you’ll find an incredible range of opportunities to develop your knowledge and skills, including the Durham Researcher Development Programme and the Durham University Excellence in Learning and Teaching Award.

Researcher Development Programme The Researcher Development Programme will equip you with the skills needed to succeed as a professional researcher, working in both academic and non-academic environments.

Through the programme, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in face-to-face workshops, as well as a wide range of inspiring online courses.

Durham University Excellence in Learning and Teaching Award (DELTA) DELTA gives you the opportunity to enhance your practice in learning and teaching. Upon completing the programme, you’ll receive the University award, as well as an Associate Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy, the UK professional body for teaching and learning in higher education.

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Academic writing and communication skills Durham Centre for Academic Development (DCAD) supports all postgraduates in developing their academic writing, skills and language.

Based on the Durham City Campus, our pre-sessional courses are specifically designed to prepare international postgraduates for the demands of academic studies here at Durham.

Successful completion of the relevant pre-sessional will also satisfy the language condition for entry onto a Durham degree. All postgraduate students can continue to refine and develop their academic communication skills after beginning their chosen degree course.

Our Academic Skills Development workshops, academic skills courses and one-to-one writing consultations are designed to help you succeed in your work at Durham.

Pre-sessional academic English courses The pre-sessional courses are designed by DCAD to prepare postgraduate students for the expectations of study here at Durham.

Pre-sessional is demanding and rewarding, and will develop both your academic written and spoken performance, as well as your academic study skills. You will also have the opportunity to explore academic issues from the perspective of your own discipline.

Through pre-sessional you will become familiar with a range of teaching and learning methods common in Durham University, including small-group seminars (approx. 10 students to a tutor), lecture engagement, peer project work, and guided independent study. You will also become familiar with Durham’s Virtual Learning Environment and the Library catalogue during your studies, while enjoying a Durham College experience and learning how College supports students in their academic experience. All of this is intended to provide you with a solid foundation for flourishing on your main degree programme. If you have not met the language condition for your chosen degree at Durham, you may be eligible for a pre-sessional course. Your conditional offer letter from Durham will state which length of course you can take. Many unconditional students also apply and join us.

The college experience Pre-sessional is partnered with Josephine Butler College (JB). Pre-sessional students are automatically a member of JB and are encouraged to choose accommodation in this college for the duration of their pre-sessional course. During the summer when the 10 and 6 week pre-sessional courses run, JB offers a full social calendar, pastoral advice and support, and access to community mentors. This ensures that pre-sessional students become familiar with Durham’s college system and its wide-ranging benefits.

To find out more about course content, fees, frequently asked questions, accommodation, and links to useful sites and resources, see durham.ac.uk/ dcad/study/presessional

Year-round academic writing and skills development DCAD offers a range of tailored sessions and short courses throughout the academic year to support your success at Durham.

Our provision tends to focus on aspects of academic writing, such as text structure, integration of reading, and academic language choices, but sessions are also available in areas such as note-taking, presentation skills and time management. Some of our disciplinespecific workshops run within academic departments, and are often tied to a particular assessment task. We also offer one-to-one consultations, where you can bring along an assignment draft for discussion and development.

Programme

All of these Academic Skills Development services are free of charge to registered Durham students.

You can find details about academic skills development and writing consulations on our website: durham.ac.uk/dcad/ current/academic

Start dates

Entry level

Costs (2019)

Summer Pre-sessional

April, June and August

See your Durham Conditional Offer Letter

20 weeks - £10,812 10 weeks - £5,406 6 weeks - £3,243.60

Academic Skills Development

All year

Any student studying at Durham University

Free of charge

To review each department’s English language requirements, as well as all of the English qualifications that are accepted, see: durham.ac.uk/learningandteaching.handbook/1/3/3

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Inspirational surroundings A postgraduate course at Durham can take you beyond the city walls.

New horizons Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland.

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Rollover numbers to find out more

Our location World-class education and living in a magnificent city.

Durham University 1. Sports and Wellbeing Park 2. Upper Mountjoy Campus 3. Lower Mountjoy Campus 4. Dunelm House - Durham Students’ Union 5. Hill Colleges 6. Bailey Colleges

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The historic city of Durham is compact, yet varied. Easy to get around, it offers a wide range of cultural and sporting pursuits, and also a huge number of places to eat, drink and meet friends. So whatever your interests, you are certain to find your place here.

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Durham City Durham is a friendly and welcoming city, with the famous Cathedral and Castle at its very heart.

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In the ancient, cobbled streets, you’ll find shops and boutiques, cafés, bars and restaurants, and plenty of culture. From walks and boat trips along the River Wear, to street markets and museum visits, there’s no shortage of things to do!

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No matter where you are in the City, you’ll never be far from one of our colleges, academic departments, or facilities. The historic city also offers a huge range of attractions, places to visit and activities, including: • Sports and Wellbeing Park • Botanic Garden • Oriental Museum • Palace Green Library and Gallery • Assembly Rooms Theatre • Gala Theatre and Cinema • The Riverwalk leisure complex.

Just 17 miles from Newcastle upon Tyne in North East England, it’s also easy to hop on a train to London, Edinburgh, or Manchester. Newcastle International Airport is also close by if you want to explore the rest of the UK and beyond.

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Edinburgh Newcastle Durham Approximate travel times by train Durham to Newcastle – 12 minutes Durham to London – 3 hours Durham to Edinburgh – 1 hour 45 minutes Durham to Manchester – 2 hours 10 minutes

Manchester

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London

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Durham City 7. Durham Cathedral 8. Durham Castle 9. Main shopping area 10. Market Place 11. Gala Theatre and Cinema, bars and restaurants 12. Bus station 13. Railway station 14. Riverwalk leisure complex

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Want to find out more?

View our online 360s to see what Durham University and Durham City have to offer and to give you a real feel for student life at Durham.

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Discover Durham City Durham might be small in size, but it’s big on things to do!

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Durham Castle and Cathedral Durham Castle and Cathedral

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Explore North East England A vibrant region full of exciting things to do and beautiful places to discover.

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Sage Gateshead Sage Gateshead

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More than

700

college sports teams across 18 sports.

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music societies – 28 Music Durham, eight chapel choirs and 50 college societies.

3,000 active student volunteers.

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More than

200

student societies to join.

£2.4m investment in the historic Assembly Rooms Theatre.

Inspiring your success With the support of our collegiate system and our wider student experience, Durham is a place to learn and grow.

No.1

UK university for team sports.

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Colleges and wider student experience A sense of community which is distinctive to Durham.

You can expect a warm welcome into the rich extracurricular culture of our collegiate family. Our colleges are safe, supportive, and inclusive. They’re full of friends who’ve got your back. You’ll feel at home from the moment you step through the door, until long after you leave.

Joining a college Our collegiate system makes Durham truly exceptional. Here, every student is a proud member of a college, and every college has its very own character and traditions.

The cornerstone of our extraordinary wider student experience is the colleges. In your college, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in sport, music, theatre and volunteering.

You’ll join parties, dinners, clubs, and societies. And you’ll be surrounded by an extraordinary, diverse, and multidisciplinary community of academics, students, and staff from different backgrounds and cultures.

What do colleges offer?

• A multidisciplinary scholarly community. Engage in inspiring intellectual conversation. Embrace debate and find answers to the big questions.

• Extracurricular opportunities. It’s not all academic. Explore a range of sports and activities, societies, and voluntary positions to enhance your personal development.

• World-class facilities. Purpose-built spaces for academic study, socialising, sport, music, drama and arts performances.

• A truly international community. A friendly, inclusive college community with students from around the world.

• Ongoing support. We don’t just provide academic support, we care about your personal wellbeing too. Your college is your first point of contact for any issues you may have or support you may need.

• A home from home. All University accommodation is managed by our colleges. A variety of room and catering options are available, all in a beautiful setting.

• Prepare to inspire. Develop your leadership skills with roles and responsibilities within your college.

• Events. A lively events calendar with regular college and student-led activities, including seminars, lecture series, balls, concerts, theatre productions, and more.

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Postgraduate accommodation As a full-time postgraduate student, you’ll have the option to live in the heart of the action in college accommodation or rent non-University accommodation in Durham. Each college offers a variety of comfortable study bedrooms, some with en-suite facilities.

Accommodation for couples and families We are committed to making the university experience accessible to everyone. We offer a limited number of furnished, self-contained, one-bedroom, two-bedroom or three-bedroom postgraduate flats for couples and families.

During my time at Durham I have done many things I never thought I would do from being part of a charity fashion show to having formals in a castle, they have all been unforgettable experiences!

Non-university accommodation Some of our postgraduate students prefer to live in Durham’s historic centre or the surrounding area. There is plenty of private rental accommodation available, including fully furnished properties for individuals, groups, and families. The Accommodation and Allocations Office can provide support and guidance.

Learn more

Student blogs

Eli Ansari

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Enrichment activities Whatever you love doing, whatever you might like to try, you will find support and inspiration here.

At Durham we split our student enrichment activity into seven themes. We call them Domains of Participation, and they help to demonstrate the breadth of opportunity available across the University: Arts and Culture: You can showcase your talents, do something entirely different or enjoy the entertainment and appreciate the work of others. Our performing arts, our visual arts, our museums, our art collections and our student media are thriving at Durham and there really is something for everyone to enjoy.

Enterprise and Employment: Your career can get started long before you graduate, from organising student-led events to participating in work-study opportunities and developing start-up companies.

Intellectual Enquiry: You’ll have many opportunities for curiosity-led academic activity beyond your degree course - from engaging with guest lecturers in your Department, to taking part in dissertation “open mic” nights in your College.

Building Communities: Some would say this is the foundation of the Durham experience! Dining as a community, helping to run your Common Room, taking part in celebration events, faith societies or peer mentoring and much more.

Sport and Wellbeing: Physical activity is a cornerstone of the student experience at Durham. From international representation and University and College Sport, right through to personal training, fitness and wellbeing classes, there is so much for you to enjoy and participate in.

Wider Community Engagement: Volunteering, supporting environmental projects and pro-bono work are some of the most meaningful memories many students build of their time at Durham.

Active Citizenship: Our students don’t hesitate to stand up and work for positive change. The University and the Students’ Union are home to a host of issues-based and political groups and campaigns on key student issues.

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Here’s a little bit more information about some of the opportunities available…

Music The perfect place to embrace your passion for music Whether you want to compete on an international stage, play for fun, or simply listen and enjoy, we have got a group for you.

From chapel choirs to bands, and chamber groups to orchestras, our thriving music scene embraces every style. Here you will find a cappella groups and world music ensembles, chamber quartets and rock operas.

As well as local, national, and international performances, you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in masterclasses and outreach work, or join Music Durham’s student committee to learn new skills in leadership, event planning, and arts management.

Each college is home to a host of ensembles and performance opportunities, while the Students’ Union runs music societies ranging from rock to folk music.

If music production is more your thing, there’s even a DJ Society and a student-run record label, DH1 records.

I expected I’d get up to many things upon starting my studies here.

A tenor in a Barbershop choir was not on that list.

Adam Smith

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Sport Find your place in the UK’s largest university sports programme.

Sport is at the core of Durham student life. A huge range of sporting opportunities is available. Whether you are looking to keep fit or be part of a team, you will have the chance to join in and give it a go.

From joining college teams to competing at University level and beyond, there is a place for you. Whether you are already experienced or a complete beginner, the University offers exceptional opportunities to get involved. You might even discover a sporting talent you never knew you had.

At Durham, we are committed to your wellbeing too. We offer students every chance to participate in a variety of wellness activities, ranging from fitness classes to outward-bound clubs, and from pilates to movement psychotherapy.

Our sporting provision is second to none, we have recently invested £32 million in a Sports and Wellbeing Park, to make sure that our world-class facilities enable us to remain one of the UK’s foremost universities for sport.

College sport Our college sport programme is the largest in the UK. Every week and whatever your level, you will have the opportunity to compete in 18 sports across more than 700 different teams. This helps you to keep fit and healthy. It is also a great way to make new friends and have fun.

Volunteering Try something new and make a positive impact in your local community

University sport Durham has 57 University Sports Clubs, with a collective student membership of over 2,500. Most of our clubs compete in British University Sport competitions. We also have a growing National League programme. This allows many of our most talented students and clubs to compete at the highest level of sport in the UK. If you’re a high-performing athlete, our Athlete Support Programme will help you reach the next level. Support is available through strength and conditioning, performance analysis and injury rehabilitation. Sports psychology and a personal mentoring scheme will help you achieve your optimum performance and we currently support over 50 internationally capped athletes annually. All this while studying for one of the best academic degrees in the country.

It really is the best of both worlds.

We encourage our students to volunteer during their time at Durham. Through our student-led, volunteering and outreach programmes, you’ll be able to take part in over 80 projects.

These cover social inclusion, education, sport, the environment, and global citizenship. Students collectively volunteer up to 40,000 hours per year.

I have benefitted from being part of a team, meeting amazing and friendly people, and competing across the country.

As well as making new friends and enjoying new experiences, you will help to strengthen your local community. You will benefit from outstanding training opportunities and have the chance to earn nationally accredited qualifications.

Outreach Each individual college also has its own outreach programmes.

So you’ll be able to get involved in a wide range of volunteering opportunities wherever you feel most comfortable.

Student volunteers You will have the opportunity to support local, national and international charities.

Jasmin Strickland

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Durham Students’ Union We are the champion of every Durham student. We care about the things that matter to you.

• We stand up for your rights • We bring you together • We’re your Union Our members (all Durham students): • Run and participate in everything from stand-up comedy to Quidditch • Campaign, lobby and advocate for student issues and student rights • Actively shape your education, by ensuing the University hears the students’ voices.

Song and dance Durham University Light Opera Group (DULOG) performs Singing in the Rain, at the Gala Theatre, Durham.

Learn more

Theatre Play a part in one of the largest and most successful student theatre scenes in the country If you love theatre, Durham is simply outstanding. Here, students produce and perform an unparalleled range of eclectic and inspiring shows every year. You will be welcome whether you have a lot of experience or none at all.

You might like to tread the boards, or you might prefer to help backstage, produce or direct a show. You could even start your own theatre company. Durham Student Theatre (DST) will support you to do what you love doing or want to learn to do.

We make the future better for students. We want to make sure that students have the power and the opportunity to transform their time at Durham. Our job is to turn that vision into a reality. And that’s not all. We also have:

Durham University Charities Kommittee (DUCK) DUCK is our very own version of what other students’ unions call their Raise and Give societies. Our job is to help students and staff fundraise hundreds of thousands of pounds for local, national, and international charities.

There’s something for everyone, from events like the Santa Fun Run and the Cathedral Sleepout, to expeditions to Cambodia or Nepal, and not forgetting running the London Marathon. It’s a great way to get involved and raise money for incredible causes!

Learn more

• Our own student newspaper and radio station • Two cafés/bars, Kingsgate (pictured below) and Riverside, selling reasonably priced and tasty food and drinks. Located in Dunelm House with views overlooking the River Wear and Durham Cathedral • Academic student groups and discussions • A free, confidential and impartial Advice Service for when things don’t quite go to plan.

• A dedicated Postgraduate Academic Officer who works closely with students, including faculty reps, course reps and representatives from across the common rooms to ensure that they represent your views to the University.

With 30 theatre companies and its own dedicated 175-seat theatre, DST is always keen to recruit new members with a passion for performance and produces more than 100 shows every year.

Durham Drama Festival Showcasing the very best that DST has to offer, Durham Drama Festival is an entirely student-run, annual festival, celebrating new student writing and student-created shows.

National Student Drama Festival Year after year, DST is one of the most successful student theatre scenes of any university at the festival. In fact, for five consecutive years, Durham students have had multiple shows selected for the National Student Drama Festival. This is unprecedented and we are incredibly proud of this achievement. You can be part of it.

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Funding and finance If you’re planning postgraduate study, there are lots of things to consider. One of the key factors is finance.

Empower yourself with an understanding of the costs involved, as well as what support is available.

Tuition fees Tuition fees vary depending on your chosen course and whether you qualify for UK/EU or international fee status. Your fees cover the cost of registration and formal entry to the University, your teaching and supervision, and all examination and degree fees.

If you’re studying full-time, your tuition fees can either be paid in full at the start of the academic year, or on a termly basis. If you’re studying on a part-time, taught course, you can pay in full or set up a monthly Direct Debit.

Fees for taught postgraduate courses: Learn more Fees for postgraduate research degrees: Learn more

Are you a Durham graduate?

We’re offering a discount for all Durham alumni. If you’re a Durham graduate, you’re selffunding or partially self-funding your postgraduate study, and you meet our eligibility criteria, you’ll receive a reduction in your fees.

Learn more

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Funding There are three main ways to fund your postgraduate studies at Durham: 1. A full studentship. This might be one of the prestigious Durham Doctoral Studentships, a UK Research and Innovation studentship, or funding from a charitable organisation, employer, or other sponsor.

2. A financial support package. Put together a package of financial support, including scholarships, bursaries and loans.

3. Savings or family support.

We understand funding can be complex. Explore our dedicated web pages to find out more.

Learn more

Durham Doctoral Studentships Through the Durham Doctoral Studentships scheme, we fund a generous support package for outstanding doctoral research students.

This is a highly competitive scheme. If your application is successful, you’ll receive a range of benefits, including: • Payment of your tuition fees (or a contribution towards them) • An annual tax-free maintenance grant at the UK Research and Innovation national rate (£15,009 for 2019–20).

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funding We offer full and tuition fee-only UKRI studentships to home and EU postgraduate students, available to doctoral students across all disciplines.

We coordinate applications on behalf of the UKRI, and will provide ongoing advice and guidance if you’re awarded the studentship.

For further information on the UKRI studentships available, please visit your department’s web page.

Learn more

Scholarships We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries for current and prospective postgraduate students taking taught and research programmes. Many provide full funding for eligible students, covering both tuition fees and maintenance support.

For further information and a current list of scholarships and bursaries, see below or contact your department directly.

Learn more

Government Postgraduate Loans (England) The Government has introduced a postgraduate loan scheme for students domiciled in England or the EU, studying on Masterslevel qualifications. Under the scheme, you can apply for a loan of up to £10,906 towards your tuition fees and/or living costs. Please note, different arrangements will apply for students domiciled in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.

The UK government PhD loan scheme is now also available, offering loans of up to £25,700.

A new way to fund your taught Masters We’re committed to making postgraduate study accessible. So we’re working in collaboration with NEFirst Credit Union Ltd, which has developed a loan to provide financial assistance for postgraduate taught study. If you’re a full-time, self-financing student, you can apply for a Postgraduate Tuition Fee Loan of up to £7,000 to cover your tuition fees.

Watch the film

Learn more Living costs When you’re working out the cost of postgraduate study at Durham, you’ll need to factor in your living costs, including expenses such as accommodation, utility bills, food, clothes, insurance, transport, and entertainment.

Learn more

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Applying to Durham Are you ready to achieve something truly outstanding and join an inclusive community of extraordinary people from a huge range of different backgrounds.

We can’t wait to meet you.

Most postgraduate taught courses start in September or October. If you’re a postgraduate research student, you’ll be able to start in October, January, or April.

Take the first step – choose your course.

Find out as much as possible about the courses you’re interested in and choose the best option for you. You can find full details for all our postgraduate taught courses via our course list.

For postgraduate research degrees, explore our academic departments to find which ones have the facilities you need, as well as staff with expertise in your field of study. You’ll then need to contact the relevant department to discuss your research interests and potential funding opportunities.

Before applying, check that you meet the entry requirements for your chosen course. Some research programmes and a small number of taught programmes also have an interview requirement.

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Head online and complete your application Once you’ve chosen your course, it’s time to visit our online application portal.

Here you’ll be asked to create an account to start the application process. You’ll need to provide personal information and details of your education and existing qualifications, as well as, normally, two academic referees. As part of your application, you’ll also be asked to upload some supporting documents – check the relevant department’s web page to confirm which documents they require. Documentary evidence of your completed or current qualifications being studied will be required as a minimum.

Most postgraduate courses don’t have a formal application deadline. However, some academic departments set deadlines for specific courses, so make sure you check before you apply, especially if you’re applying for funding too.

We’ll process your application Once we’ve received your completed application, we’ll process it as quickly as possible. If you are applying for a Business School MSc programme, you will receive a notification asking you to pay an application fee before we can consider your application.

From time to time, we need further information to allow us to make a decision. If this is the case, we’ll be in touch.

We’ll let you know our decision If your application is successful, we’ll update you via your applicant portal where you will find your formal offer letter (which will also be sent to you by email). If we’re unable to make you an offer at this time, this will also be communicated to you via your applicant portal and by email.

Confirm your place If you receive an offer from us, please let us know if you’d like to accept it, as soon as possible via your applicant portal. You may be asked to pay a tuition fee deposit. If this is the case, please ensure you pay it within the requested timeframe.

The next steps…

Once you’ve accepted your offer, you can start preparing to join our inspiring community.

You’ll be allocated your college and will have the opportunity to apply for accommodation.

Learn more

If you receive a conditional offer, you’ll need to contact us to let us know when you’ve met the conditions of the offer and provide evidence.

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Top 50

Our Arts and Humanities subjects are all in the top 50 in the 2022 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by Subject.

83%

of our postgraduate taught students achieved a Distinction or Merit (2018/19).

83%

of our research is rated internationally excellent or world leading (3* or 4* REF 2014).

World Top

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Eight of our subjects are ranked in the World Top 50 in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2021.

92%

Qualifications that inspire

of UK and EU taught and research leavers went into work or further study within fifteen months of leaving Durham (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018/19).

Our postgraduate qualifications can take you where you want to go.

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Classics and Ancient History The Department of Classics and Ancient History is an internationally leading centre for postgraduate study.

As a centre of world-class research, we have a strong commitment to postgraduate provision, and welcome applications for MA and PhD work in any of the research specialties represented in the Department.

We are one of the largest Classics departments in the UK and our staff are engaged in international-level research in core disciplines, such as the study of ancient literature and its reception, philosophy, history, architecture and epigraphy.

This wealth of expertise has allowed us to develop some major interdisciplinary research groupings along distinctive lines, including the areas in which we host research centres: the Centre for Classical Reception; the Centre for the Study of the Ancient Mediterranean and the Near East; and the Durham Centre for Ancient and Medieval Philosophy.

Key research areas • Ancient History • Ancient Literature (both Greek and Latin) • Ancient Philosophy • Classical Reception • The Ancient Mediterranean and the Near East • Topography and Architecture

Careers and employability Many former students have published their work in prominent journals, and graduates of our taught MA programmes have gone on to receive funded offers to pursue doctoral study at a range of high-profile institutions.

Others have pursued successful careers in a variety of fields from accountancy to teaching, bringing with them the added prestige of a higher degree and the advanced analytical, communication and research skills that an MA offers.

Our PhD students have gone on to take up academic positions at the University of Edinburgh, the University of St Andrews, University College London, and the University of Warwick, among others. Others have taken up positions in the civil service and at independent schools.

Ranking

3rd

in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022.

3rd

in The Complete University Guide 2022.

4th

in The Guardian University Guide 2022.

World Top 50 in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2021.

Joint 2nd in the UK for internationally excellent and world-leading research impact (REF 2014).

Study the Greek and Roman world in one of the largest and most vibrant Classics departments in the UK.

Course information

Course information

Ancient Philosophy MA

Classics MA

Study on a course with a long and distinguished history.

This is a specialist course, geared towards preparing you for higher research in ancient philosophy – partly through direct research training, and partly through modules taught by experts in their field in small-group seminars. Durham has a longstanding tradition of international excellence in the field of ancient philosophy, with several recent doctoral students having gone on to take up academic positions in the UK and abroad.

Typical course content Core modules: • Language module in an ancient or modern language relevant to research in the area of Classics • Core module in Ancient Philosophy • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Animals in Graeco-Roman Antiquity • Aristotle’s Systems • Cicero Philosophus

• Edessa: The Athens of the East • Greeks and the East • Latin Love Elegy • Law and Literature in Ancient Greece and Rome • Monumental Architecture of the Roman East • Religious Life in The Roman Near East • The Classical Tradition: Art, Literature, Thought • The Queen of the Desert: Rise and Decline of Palmyra’s Civilization.

Teaching At the heart of the course is the Dissertation module, in which you will write a 15,000-word dissertation on a research topic of your choice in Ancient Philosophy (working with a supervisor who is an expert in your field of interest) and acquire key research skills training through weekly seminars. In addition, you will take four taught modules, of which at least one must be a core module in Ancient Philosophy and one must involve language work. Most classes comprise a mixture of student-led discussions and presentations, with an emphasis on small-group teaching (usually around five students). You also have the option to take an independent research topic on a subject of your choice in place of one of the optional taught modules and/or a module in another department.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements A good second class Honours degree in a relevant subject (typically 2:1 Honours) or international equivalent (e.g. USA 3.3 GPA; Greek 6.5 / Lian Kalos).

Learn more

A course with a broad range of subject choice that will prepare you for higher research.

The MA Classics is our core research training degree, suitable for anyone wishing to pursue doctoral work in a branch of Classics.

The course places a strong emphasis on language training, on theoretically informed approaches to classical texts, and on practical engagement with your chosen specialism.

Typical course content Core modules: • Language module in an ancient or modern language relevant to research in the area of Classics • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Animals in Graeco-Roman Antiquity • Aristotle’s Systems • Cicero Philosophus • Edessa: The Athens of the East

Assessment Apart from the dissertation (15,000 words), you will be assessed mainly through coursework essays or commentaries (usually ca 5,000 words); in some modules, examinations or oral presentations form part of the assessment.

• Greeks and the East • Latin Love Elegy • Law and Literature in Ancient Greece and Rome • Monumental Architecture of the Roman East • Religious Life in The Roman Near East • The Classical Tradition: Art, Literature, Thought • The Queen of the Desert: Rise and Decline of Palmyra’s Civilization.

Teaching At the heart of the course is the Dissertation module, in which you will write a 15,000-word dissertation on a research topic of your choice (working with a supervisor who is an expert in your field of interest) and acquire key research skills training through weekly seminars. In addition, you will take four taught modules, of which at least one must involve language work.

Most classes comprise a mixture of student-led discussions and presentations, with an emphasis on small-group teaching (usually around five students). You also have the option to take an independent research topic on a subject of your choice in place of one of the optional taught modules and/or a module in another department.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements A good second class Honours degree in a relevant subject (typically 2:1 Honours) or international equivalent (e.g. USA 3.3 GPA; Greek 6.5 / Lian Kalos).

Learn more

Assessment Apart from the dissertation (15,000 words), you will be assessed mainly through coursework essays or commentaries (usually ca 5,000 words); in some modules, examinations or oral presentations form part of the assessment.

“ Classics prides itself on research-led teaching which means that every lecturer lets their research interests flow into the courses they teach. This contributes to an environment that values a very open exchange of ideas.”

Arved Kirschbaum

Course information

Course information

Greece, Rome and the Near East MA

Classics and Ancient History research degrees

Explore the relationship between the classical world and the Near East on this popular course.

This is a course geared towards preparing you for higher research into the interaction of the classical world with the Near East – partly through direct research training, and partly through modules taught by experts in their field, in small-group seminars.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

The relationship between the classical world and neighbouring civilisations is among the most important and most rapidly expanding areas of classical scholarship, and we have particular strength in this field. We offer tuition in Akkadian, and can draw on the resources of the Oriental Museum in Durham and the expertise pooled in the Centre for the Study of the Ancient Mediterranean and the Near East.

Typical entry requirements A good second class Honours degree in a relevant subject (typically 2:1 Honours) or international equivalent (e.g. USA 3.3 GPA; Greek 6.5 / Lian Kalos).

Learn more

Typical course content Core modules: • Language module in an ancient or modern language • Core module for Greece, Rome and the Near East • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Animals in Graeco-Roman Antiquity

• Aristotle’s Systems • Cicero Philosophus • Edessa: The Athens of the East • Greeks and the East • Latin Love Elegy • Religious Life in The Roman Near East.

Teaching At the heart of the course is the Dissertation module, in which you will write a 15,000-word dissertation on a research topic of your choice (working with a supervisor who is an expert in your field of interest) and acquire key research skills training through weekly seminars. In addition, you will take four taught modules, of which at least one must be a core module for Greece, Rome and the Near East and one must involve language work. Most classes comprise a mixture of student-led discussions and presentations, with an emphasis on small-group teaching (usually around five students). You also have the option to take an independent research topic on a subject of your choice in place of one of the optional taught modules and/or a module in another department.

Assessment Apart from the dissertation (15,000 words), you will be assessed mainly through coursework essays or commentaries (usually ca 5,000 words); in some modules, examinations or oral presentations form part of the assessment.

Find your voice in a major project, supported by individual supervisors, in one of the most vibrant research communities for Classics and Ancient History in the world.

We encourage applications from those who seek to develop a distinctive Masters or Doctoral Thesis on any aspect of Classics and Ancient History. As a centre of world-class research, we have a strong commitment to postgraduate provision, and welcome applications for MA and PhD work in any of the (many) research specialities we represent. With one of the largest permanent staff teams of any UK Classics department, we have an unusually wide range of expertise and scope for cross-disciplinary work.

Our research community is underpinned by our: • Weekly Research Seminar with distinguished visiting speakers • Weekly Work-in-Progress Seminar • Annual Departmental Research Project, which explores particular areas of overlapping interest among staff and postgraduate researchers in the Department through

international-level conferences, seminars and publications.

We also are home to three Research Centres: • Centre for the Study of the Ancient Mediterranean and the Near East • Durham Centre for Classical Reception • Durham Centre for Ancient and Medieval Philosophy.

Contact T: +44 (0) 191 334 1691 Email Learn more

“ I’ve presented in various conferences and workshops, and gained a highly valuable experience in presenting the results of my research. I also convened two interdisciplinary workshops and coorganised a conference on Roman literature.”

Simona Martorana

MA by Thesis in Classics and Ancient History The MA by Thesis requires the completion of a mid-sized research project (50,000 words) on a well-shaped topic, with close personal supervision. This does not offer you the opportunity to take MA modules; hence, applicants may also wish to consider the various taught MA courses we offer.

Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

PhD in Classics and Ancient History Our principal research degree. The highest level in the subject, producing an extended thesis (up to 100,000 words) aiming to provide a lasting contribution to the field. You will have a supervisory team of two staff with most students working very closely with a principal supervisor. When applying, please use our Departmental web page to identify and contact the person you think may be best suited as your principal supervisor.

Course length 3 years full-time.

6 years part-time.

English Studies Study literary forms ranging from creative writing to Romantic and Victorian literature.

The Department of English Studies is one of the largest and most respected English departments in the UK. It provides an inclusive environment that values curiosity, intellectual rigour, imagination and individual response. Students of all backgrounds and nationalities will find an intimate, dynamic and supportive environment for their studies You can choose specialised topics from a very wide historical and cultural range and receive individual guidance on your work.

Courses are taught by researchers who are leaders in their field.

You will also benefit from the Department’s connections with interdisciplinary research institutes and centres. All students develop skills of evidence-based argument, rigorous analysis, verbal accuracy, and independent, creative thinking.

Ranking

Joint 1st

in the UK for research environment (REF 2014).

3rd

in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022.

4th

in The Guardian University Guide 2022.

Departmental highlight We are one of very few departments in the world to teach and research in literature from the early medieval period to the present, and in anglophone literatures from across the globe.

4th

Key research areas • Contemporary Literature and World Literatures • Modernism and Twentieth Century Literature • Eighteenth and Nineteenth Century Literature • Medieval and Early Modern Literature • Medical Humanities • Literary and Cultural Theory • American Literature • Irish Literature

3rd

Careers and employability Our graduates are highly valued by employers. They progress into a diverse range of careers and sectors, including arts and theatre management, broadcasting, publishing and journalism, business, accounting, marketing and advertising, teaching, higher education, law, third sector and government positions. They have also become software developers and entrepreneurs, and have also gained prestigious positions in banking and finance.

in The Complete University Guide 2022.

in the UK for internationally excellent and world–leading research (REF 2014).

World Top 50

in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2021.

Study with experts in their fields.

Course information

Course information

Creative Writing MA

English Literary Studies MA

Study an exciting course taught by award–winning writers.

Our taught MA course offers choice, flexibility and the opportunity to specialise.

Taught by award–winning writers Dr Paul Batchelor, Dr Naomi Booth, Kayo Chingonyi, Professor Claire Harman, Sunjeev Sahota, and Dr Sam Riviere, this is an academically rigorous course that will develop your practical knowledge of writing poetry and prose fiction. You will receive structured support through writing workshops and one–to–one tutorials, in order to develop your own ideas. You will also study a broad range of literature from the twentieth and twenty–first centuries, and will produce new work in response.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical course content Core modules: • Creative Writing Poetry • Creative Writing Prose Fiction • Reading as a Writer • Reading as a Writer: The Workshop • Research Project.

You should submit a sample of 4–6 poems or 2,000 words of fiction, as well as two positive academic or professional references.

Examples of optional modules: • Choice of English Literary Studies MA modules.

Teaching You will take one writing–workshop module. In this module, you will write longer pieces within your chosen literary discipline, sharing your work. You will give and receive feedback, and listen to suggestions from the module convenor and the other students. Seminars bring poets and prose writers together, as we discuss some key poetry and prose from across the twentieth century, focusing on the technical innovations introduced by the writers studied. The Research Project provides the opportunity to produce an extended critical essay on a subject of your choice.

Assessment Modules are assessed through a portfolio of creative work, including poetry or prose fiction, plus self–critiques and essays.

Typical entry requirements An Honours degree at 2:1 or higher, or GPA average of 3.2 from a recognised national or international university.

You can learn from the rich variety of research expertise in the Department of English Studies and you will also have the chance to concentrate on a particular area of literary study. Our commitment to research–led teaching means that you are able to explore the cutting-edge of the discipline – from the Anglo– Saxon period to the present day, and from medieval manuscripts to contemporary crime narrative.

You will have the opportunity to follow up particular interests by studying a named pathway, or to designate your own area of study within the broad MA English Literary Studies, tailoring an individual course based on period, theme or genre. The three module choices for the English Literary Studies MA can be made from any of the available options, ranging from Old Norse to the Contemporary US Novel.

Learn more Typical course content Core modules: • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Old Norse • Middle English Manuscripts and Texts • Modernism and Touch • The Contemporary US Novel • The Writing of Poetry.

Teaching Our courses offer up–to–date training in research methods and skills and a wide selection of literature modules. A strong emphasis is placed on independent research, and seminars usually involve a considerable amount of preparation, including short presentations and workshop activities.

Assessment Assessment is usually by essay. You will also complete a dissertation.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full–time.

2 years part–time.

Typical entry requirements You will normally require an English or English–related Honours degree (at least a 2:1 or equivalent) from a recognised university.

In addition to specifying your three module choices, you will also need to include a piece of written work of approximately 2,000 words in length on a literary subject.

Learn more

“ I have enjoyed the Department’s openness, forming productive relationships with my teachers and engaging with a wide range of postgraduate groups.”

Ben Chennells

Course information

Course information

Medieval and Renaissance Literary Studies MA

Romantic and Victorian Literary Studies MA

Explore the cutting-edge of the discipline – from Old Norse to Renaissance tragedy, from medieval manuscripts to critical theory.

Our MA course offers choice, flexibility and the opportunity to specialise within this field. You can learn from the rich variety of research expertise in the Department and you will also have the chance to concentrate on a particular area of literary study within the fields of Medieval and Renaissance studies. The course includes the possibility of taking interdisciplinary modules involving other departments including History and Archaeology.

Our course offers up–to–date training in research methods and skills. You will choose three modules, at least two of which are from within the pathway, and you will write a dissertation on a subject related to Medieval and/or Renaissance studies. An MA Medieval and Renaissance Literary Studies is often the platform for further research at PhD level, as well as providing an excellent grounding for jobs in education, the arts and the media.

Typical course content Core modules: • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Old Norse • Middle English Manuscripts and Texts

• Narrative Transformations: Medieval Romance to Renaissance Epic • Renaissance Humanism • Renaissance Tragedy • Warrior Poets in Heroic Societies.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements You will normally require an English or English–related Honours degree (at least a 2:1 or equivalent) from a recognised university.

In addition to specifying your three module choices, you will also need to include a piece of written work of approximately 2,000 words in length on a literary subject.

Learn more

Learn from the rich variety of staff research expertise and have the chance to concentrate on a particular area of literary study within the field.

Our taught MA pathway in Romantic and Victorian Literary Studies offers choice, flexibility and the opportunity to specialise within this field. Our commitment to research–led teaching means that you are able to explore the cutting edge of the discipline – from Romantics’ legacies, to the representation of women in Victorian poetry and painting, to critical theory.

Our course offers up–to–date training in research methods and skills. You will choose three modules, at least two of which are from within the pathway, and you will write a dissertation on a subject related to Romantic and/or Victorian studies.

An MA Romantic and Victorian Literary Studies is often the platform for further research at PhD level, as well as providing an excellent grounding for jobs in education, the arts and the media.

Typical course content Core modules: • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Reflections on Revolution, 1789–1922 • Romantic Forms of Grief

• Thinking with Things in Victorian Literature • Literary Masculinity at the Fin–de–Siècle • Women and the Novel in the Eighteenth Century • Romantic and Victorian Labouring–Class Poetry.

Teaching The course permits both a broad–based, eclectic study of literary topics from the earliest periods of literature to the present and the possibility of specialisation through designated pathways.

A strong emphasis is placed on independent research, and seminars usually involve a considerable amount of preparation, including short presentations and workshop activities.

Teaching The course permits both a broad–based, eclectic study of literary topics from the earliest periods of literature to the present and the possibility of specialisation through designated pathways.

A strong emphasis is placed on independent research, and seminars usually involve a considerable amount of preparation, including short presentations and workshop activities.

Assessment Assessment for modules is usually by coursework essay. You will also complete a dissertation.

Assessment Assessment for modules is usually by coursework essay. You will also complete a dissertation.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full–time.

2 years part–time.

Typical entry requirements You will normally require an English or English–related Honours degree (at least a 2:1 or equivalent) from a recognised university.

In addition to specifying your three module choices, you will also need to include a piece of written work of approximately 2,000 words in length on a literary subject.

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Course information

Course information

Studies in Poetry MA

Twentieth and Twenty–First Century Literary Studies MA

Study a range of genres – from John Milton to Romantic forms of grief, to modern poetry.

Our MA Studies in Poetry offers choice, flexibility and the opportunity to specialise within this field. You can learn from the rich variety of research expertise in the Department and you will also have the chance to concentrate on a particular area of literary study within the field. Our commitment to research–led teaching means that students are able to explore the cuttingedge of the discipline.

Our course offers up–to–date training in research methods and skills. You will choose three modules, at least two of which are from within the pathway, and you will write a dissertation on a subject related to studies in poetry.

An MA Studies in Poetry is often the platform for further research at PhD level, as well as providing an excellent grounding for jobs in education, the arts and the media.

Typical course content Core modules: • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Warrior Poets in Heroic Societies

• Lyric Poetry of the English Renaissance and Reformation • Romantic Forms of Grief • Elegy: From John Milton to Seamus Heaney • T.S. Eliot • Modern Poetry • The Writing of Poetry.

Teaching The course permits both a broad–based, eclectic study of literary topics from the earliest periods of literature to the present and the possibility of specialisation through designated pathways.

A strong emphasis is placed on independent research, and seminars usually involve a considerable amount of preparation, including short presentations and workshop activities.

Assessment Assessment for modules is usually by coursework essay. You will also complete a dissertation.

Explore subjects from the beginnings of the literature of revolution, to life writing, to contemporary US crime narrative.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements You will normally require an English or English–related Honours degree (at least a 2:1 or equivalent) from a recognised university.

In addition to specifying your three module choices, you will also need to include a piece of written work of approximately 2,000 words in length on a literary subject.

Learn more

Our MA course offers choice, flexibility and the opportunity to specialise within this field. You can learn from the rich variety of research expertise in the Department and you will also have the chance to concentrate on a particular area of literary study within the field. Our commitment to research–led teaching means that you are able to explore the cutting edge of the discipline.

Our course offers up–to–date training in research methods and skills. You will choose three modules, at least two of which are from within the pathway, and you will write a dissertation on a subject related to twentieth and twenty–first century studies.

An MA in Twentieth and Twenty–First Century Literary Studies is often the platform for further research at PhD level, as well as providing an excellent grounding for jobs in education, the arts and the media.

Typical course content Core modules: • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Modern Poetry • Literatures of Slavery

• Modernism and Touch • Post–War British Drama • The Contemporary US Novel • The Writing of Poetry • Blood and Soil: Regionalism and Contemporary US Crime Narrative.

Teaching The course permits both a broad–based, eclectic study of literary topics from the earliest periods of literature to the present and the possibility of specialisation through designated pathways.

A strong emphasis is placed on independent research, and seminars usually involve a considerable amount of preparation, including short presentations and workshop activities.

Assessment Assessment for modules is usually by coursework essay. You will also complete a dissertation.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full–time.

2 years part–time.

Typical entry requirements You will normally require an English or English–related Honours degree (at least a 2:1 or equivalent) from a recognised university.

In addition to specifying your three module choices, you will also need to include a piece of written work of approximately 2,000 words in length on a literary subject.

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Course information

English Studies research degrees

The Department of English Studies is one of Europe’s leading centres for research in English literature and literary theory, and has a growing programme in Creative Writing.

We provide a stimulating and supportive environment in which to undertake research, including creative writing, within a thriving postgraduate community. Students will work towards an MA, MLitt or PhD under the supervision of academics who are experts or creative practitioners across the range of English Studies, with a strong tradition of interdisciplinary research as well.

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The Department’s research culture, training, and funding will allow you to gain experience in the key skills required for academic and other careers. We host a substantial programme of seminars, public lectures, and conferences each year, including long-standing series such as Late Summer Lectures and Inventions of the Text run by postgraduate research students. The prestigious Postgraduate English journal is edited by our postgraduate researchers.

MA English Studies An MA by Research is distinct from our taught MAs in English Studies, and provides a standalone degree, or may serve as preparation for further postgraduate study towards a PhD. It is assessed by a 50,000-word thesis.

Course length 1 year full–time.

2 years part–time.

MLitt English Studies Our MLitt is assessed by a 70,000-word thesis.

Course length 2 years full–time.

4 years part–time.

PhD English Studies Examined by a 100,000-word thesis and an oral examination.

Course length 3 years full–time.

6 years part–time.

MLitt Creative Writing You will produce a complete and coherent creative writing project in your chosen form, plus a literary-critical dissertation of a high academic standard, comprising 70,000 words in total.

Course length 2 years full–time.

4 years part–time.

PhD Creative Writing You will produce a complete and coherent creative writing project in your chosen form, plus a literary-critical dissertation of a high academic standard, comprising 100,000 words in total.

Course length 3 years full–time.

6 years part–time.

Our department’s strong research culture, facilities and training will allow you to develop as a researcher.

History Durham University attracts some of the best postgraduate students from the UK and internationally, and we support these students to develop themselves and their careers.

As a postgraduate student, you will benefit from working with staff with areas of expertise in an outstanding range of geographical areas (Europe, Britain, North America, Africa, China, Japan, and South Asia).

Postgraduates also benefit from opportunities for interdisciplinary research conversations through research institutes and centres, such as the Institute of Medieval and Early Modern Studies, the Centre for Nineteenth Century Studies, and the Centre for Visual Arts and Culture.

Durham University is exceptionally well provided with libraries and online resources, enabling historical research at doctoral level.

Durham is also home to an unusually extensive and diverse range of archives and special collections, from Magna Carta to the Sudan Archive.

Departmental highlights We have a strong and dedicated postgraduate community made up of MA and PhD students, who organise and contribute to academic activities. Postgraduate students lead their own discussion groups, organise annual conferences and meet with external keynote speakers. The postgraduate community is also an integral part of the History Department’s wider research culture. MA and PhD students participate in the Department’s research seminars and take part in our highly successful research groups.

Key research areas We have an impressive range of research expertise: geographically, our research ranges from America to China and from South Africa to Scandinavia; chronologically, from the fourth century AD through to contemporary history; and thematically, across social, cultural, intellectual, gender, media, political and economic history.

Careers and employability History graduates have progressed to a wide variety of academic, academic–related, heritage and professional careers. They have entered sectors from professional services (law, Civil Service, accountancy), to teaching and business.

Ranking

5th

in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022.

5th

in The Complete University Guide 2022.

6th

in The Guardian University Guide 2022.

World Top 50

in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2021.

Postgraduates are an important part of our research community and we place an extremely high value on the contribution that they make to the Department.

Course information

Course information

History MA

Social and Economic History (Research Methods) MA

Our exceptional MA is designed to offer choice, flexibility and the opportunity to specialise.

This course is designed as a research preparation Masters. It invites you to understand the relationship between your own specialist field and the historical discipline in general, as well as to communicate with wider audiences. You will feel sufficiently confident in your own disciplinary identity and mastery of the subject to be able to converse with those in other fields.

The course is taught with an emphasis on disciplinary training supplied by subject specialists with expertise in an outstanding range of geographical areas (Europe, Britain, North America, Africa, China and Japan) and interdisciplinary engagement. You will be able to access and use Durham’s exceptional cluster of libraries, archives and special collections.

Learn quantitative and qualitative research methods appropriate to a wide range of historical approaches.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements A 2:1, with an overall average score of 65% or above, or a GPA of 3.5 or above, or equivalent.

An undergraduate degree in history or a related subject is required.

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Typical course content Core modules: • Themes, Reading and Sources • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Anglo–Saxon Societies and Cultures • The Nature of History: Approaches to Environmental History

• Visualising Revolution • Intellectuals and Public Opinion in Global History • Elections in Africa • A Safe Democracy?

Constitutionalism, Extremism, and Political Violence in Modern England.

Teaching This course is delivered primarily through small–group seminar teaching, with some larger classes and lecture–style sessions.

Our MA Social and Economic History provides training in research methods for historical topics in any aspect of social and economic history. Accredited by the ESRC, this MA is part of our four–year funding scheme offered by the Northern Ireland and North East Doctoral Training Partnership (NINE DTP). You can apply for 1+3 funding for this MA followed by a PhD in any aspect of social and economic history with expert supervision available within the Department – and with our partner institution in the NINE DTP at Newcastle University. This includes African history, and aspects of governance, as well as traditional social and economic topics.

Typical entry requirements A 2:1, with an overall average score of 65% or above, or a GPA of 3.5 or above, or equivalent.

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Durham has a long tradition of economic and social history, on which this MA draws. The breadth of subjects mirrors the comprehensive and global nature of the Department’s staff: from medieval Europe to modern–day Africa, and from north–east England to the global economy.

Typical course content Core modules: • Themes, Reading and Sources • Perspectives on Social Research • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Statistical Exploration and Reasoning • Applied Statistics

• Intellectuals and Public Opinion in Global History • Elections in Africa: A Cultural and Political History • A Safe Democracy?

Constitutionalism, Extremism, and Political Violence in Modern England • Qualitative Research Methods in Social Science • Fieldwork and Interpretation.

Teaching Shared with the Department of Sociology, this course is delivered primarily through small–group seminar teaching, with some larger classes and lecture–style sessions.

Assessment Assessment is by essay and/or exam, presentation and dissertation. You will also complete a dissertation presentation plus a 10–minute Q&A at the MA Conference.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Assessment Assessment is by essay. You will also complete a dissertation.

“ The modules that I took gave me a lot of flexibility to write on the aspects of history which really interest me.”

Beth Brewer

Course information

History research degrees

At Durham, we believe that our research benefits from collaboration and from being shared with others, whose ideas and support can give us greater confidence and ambition.

We welcome applicants who are interested in developing their own MA/PhD theses on any aspect of historical enquiry that our wide range of academic staff are available to supervise.

Contact T: +44 (0) 191 334 1040 Email

Durham has excellent online and archival resources for local and regional history, British history, and aspects of European, American, African and Asian history. The Department funds travel and accommodation costs for postgraduate students who need to conduct their research away from Durham. The University provides training in research skills for historians, including ancient and modern languages.

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MA in History by Research An MA by Research is distinct from the taught MA History, which includes structured courses of advanced study in specialist themes.

The MA by Research provides a standalone degree, or may serve as a preparation for further postgraduate study towards a PhD in History. It is assessed by a 50,000–word thesis.

Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

PhD in History The PhD is examined by a 100,000–word thesis and an oral examination (viva voce).

Course length 3 years full-time.

6 years part-time.

“ The opportunity to conduct ‘hands-on’ research in archives across the UK has been exciting. It has helped to refine my own research skills, and provided useful material for my PhD studies.”

Daniel Brewer PhD in History

We host a lively programme of seminars and conferences, including events run for and by postgraduate research students.

Institute of Medieval and Early Modern Studies (IMEMS) Set in a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a medieval Castle and Cathedral, IMEMS is an international centre for research in the period c.300–c.1800.

Our postgraduates, drawn from all over the world, are an important part of our research community, and they make an extremely valuable contribution to the research culture of the Institute and to Durham more generally through the Medieval and Early Modern Student Association (MEMSA), which is run by the students with the aim of sharing ideas and learning from one another.

Durham has outstanding libraries and collections, comprising the world–class Oriental Museum, rare books and manuscripts at Durham Cathedral, Palace Green with its fully preserved seventeenth–century Cosin’s Library, and Ushaw College, with thousands of medieval and early modern books, manuscripts and artefacts. IMEMS provides an inspiring environment in which to research these rich and unique resources.

Departmental highlight Dr Eleanor Barraclough’s book, Beyond the Northlands: Viking Voyages and the Old Norse Sagas, was published by Oxford University Press in 2016. As a result of this research she was chosen as a BBC ‘New Generation Thinker’ and has presented various radio programmes.

Key research areas We have an impressive range of research expertise: geographically, the main focus is on Europe, but extends across the Arab world to South Asia and to China. We have strengths in all periods from the fourth to the eighteenth centuries, embracing a range of disciplinary and methodological approaches. Among the less common areas of expertise are interdisciplinary projects bringing together humanities scholars and scientists, research–led performance practice, and investigation of the social and economic impact of heritage sites.

Careers and employability The MA is an excellent springboard for continuing your studies at PhD level, or moving on to a range of different careers. From the outset, you will be integrated into the wider IMEMS research community. You are encouraged to attend our lively programme of events, join our vibrant postgraduate student group, MEMSA, and access a variety of extra–curricular training opportunities, such as workshops and masterclasses with visiting subject experts and industry professionals.

A home to one of the largest groups of medieval and early modern specialists anywhere in the world.

Course information

Medieval and Early Modern Studies MA

A highly diverse course, covering an exciting range of topics from late antiquity to the late eighteenth century.

As a student on the MA Medieval and Early Modern Studies, you will take two core modules, to develop your research skills and explore key historical and critical questions. You will also take two further modules from a broad set of options allowing you to explore your own interests. You will write a dissertation supervised by one of Durham’s specialists, allowing you to focus on a topic of your choice. This may be interdisciplinary or focused primarily on one of the individual disciplines that make up the course. All elements of the course have embedded within them a range of content, subject–specific skills, and key skills.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements A good 2:1 or equivalent.

English Language Entry Level Band A. Learn more

Our MA students work with our specialists across the Arts, Humanities, Sciences, and Social Sciences, including Archaeology, Classics, Earth Sciences, English, History, Modern Languages, Oriental Studies, Philosophy, Music and Theology.

Typical course content Our two core modules, Reading the Medieval and Early Modern Past, and Writing the Medieval and Early Modern Past, develop advanced skills in interpreting and using a range of different kinds of source material, including textual material and visual culture.

Optional modules available in previous years include: Palaeography; Latin for Research; History of Translation; Warrior Poets; Archaeology of the Book; England’s Religious Revolution 1640–1662; Grant-writing for Masters students; and a Summer School: “Things that Matter: Material and Culture in/for the Digital Age”.

Teaching The MA is delivered through a range of tutorials, seminars and practical hands–on workshops with subject experts. You will also receive one–to–one supervision through focusing in detail on a particular aspect of medieval and early modern history, literature, society or culture in your dissertation.

“ I was hands on with primary sources from day one. Working around the Castle and Cathedral really brings history to life on a daily basis.”

Callum Murrell

Assessment The course is assessed through summative essays or equivalent written assignment (for example, a diplomatic transcription) and the final dissertation.

“The MA offers a vast range of possibilities to students eager to view the Middle Ages and the early modern period from a global perspective.”

Rachael Matthews, graduate

Languages, Cultures and Visual Arts We carry out research into literature, culture and language as well as film and visual studies that is extensive in historical scope and geographically wide ranging.

Nearly 50 full-time, research-active members of staff supervise and teach around 125 postgraduates (over half of whom are international), comprising 75 students in taught programmes and 50 students pursuing MA and PhD research degrees.

As a major partner in a number of University-wide research centres and institutes, we provide an ideal research environment for postgraduate study, with weekly research events and regular postgraduate activities. Our emphasis on comparative, interdisciplinary and cross-cultural approaches to research gives our research students a broad-ranging and cohesive environment in which to develop a range of skills. This equips them for careers both within and beyond academia, nationally and internationally.

Departmental highlights In the last few years, our postgraduate researchers have organised conferences including: the annual Society of Italian Studies PG Conference (2019); the Decolonising Degrowth Conference (2021), the annual Society of French Studies PG Conference (2019); and the annual PG Conference on Translation Studies (2013–2019). They have led research seminars and organised conference panels nationally and internationally.

Key research areas • Critical Theory • Cultural Ecologies • Digital Studies • Film Studies • Gender and Sexuality • Literary and Cultural History

• Medieval and Early Modern Studies • Performance Studies • Postcolonialism • Science and the Humanities • Translation Studies • Visual Arts and Culture

Careers and employability Recent PhD graduates now hold teaching positions at universities in Europe, the USA, Australia and the Middle East. Other recent career destinations include university administration, translation, analytics, museum curating, rare bookselling and the French film industry.

Ranking

4th and 5th in The Complete University Guide 2022.

6th

in The Guardian University Guide 2022.

World Top 100

in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2021.

Our expertise includes Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Hispanic, Italian, Japanese, and Russian Studies.

Course information

Course information

Languages, Literatures, Cultures MA

Translation Studies MA

Develop your knowledge and understanding of specific literary and cultural traditions from around the globe.

The MA is an exciting and dynamic course that invites you to engage critically with literatures emerging from diverse literary and cultural contexts from around the world. The course has a broad global reach and draws together a wealth of expertise in Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Italian, Hispanic and Russian Studies. This global approach presents a distinct opportunity for students who wish to pursue a degree in world literatures and comparative studies with a firm emphasis on working on materials in their original language(s), with due attention to the local, national and regional contexts in which they originate.

Whether working with text in one, or several, non-English languages, the course invites you to think within an international context, to cross borders, disciplines and canons, to reflect on questions of cultural transmission and exchange in literature, as well as to explore literary interactions with wider intellectual and cultural phenomena, such as translation, philosophy and visual culture. The course provides an exceptional critical base that prepares and invites students to proceed to a PhD in a corresponding field, encouraging throughout a research-led approach which culminates in the dissertation. With a strong emphasis on urgent current themes and debates, it also equips you with high-level critical skills that can lead to employment in the literary, culture, arts and heritage sectors.

Typical course content Core modules: • Critical Theory and Frameworks • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Selected Topics in World Literatures • World Literature and Translation

• Science, Technology and the Re-making of Nature • Visual Modernities • History of Translation • Work Placement • French Reading Skills for Research • German Reading Skills for Research • Crossing Cultures: Word, Text and Image in Translation

Assessment Assessment includes coursework essays on the core course, selected modules and a dissertation.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

Typical entry requirements A BA degree (2:1 or equivalent) in a relevant subject, such as a language (Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Russian), literature or linguistics from a recognised national or international university.

Applicants from non-English speaking countries will be required to complete a written assessment as part of their application.

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Teaching The core module sets out the intellectual framework for the course, offering a broad overview of key conceptual debates in world literature, together with methodologies and critical tools for the study of literatures and cultures.

The optional modules provide further specialised areas of study in related topics of interest to individual students, and the dissertation involves detailed study of a particular aspect of a topic related to the broad area of world literature.

Train on a professionally accredited translation course.

The MA is recognised all over the world for its academic quality, its innovative approach to translation, and its relevance.

Students acquire mastery of several languages and expertise and experience in transcultural understanding. As members of the European Masters in Translation Network we specialise in a wide range of languages: Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish. We also offer core modules in the complex skills required of translators, including essential technological competences and strategies of intercultural mediation. We teach our students to analyse translation as a profession, an academic discipline, and a wider set of cultural practices. We offer an outstanding range of work placements from which to gain professional experience. These take them into the European Commission and other international institutions; into museums and galleries; and into many other parts of the culture, heritage, and creative sectors.

Typical course content Core modules: • Translation Theory, Research Skills and Practice • Specialised Translation Language • Translation Studies Dissertation • Extended Translation Project.

Examples of optional modules: • Crossing Cultures: Word, Text and Image in Translation • History of Translation • Introduction to Linguistics for Translation

• Translation Ethics and Intercultural Project Management • World Literature and Translation • Translation Work Placement • Conference Interpreting Chinese – English • Consecutive English – Chinese Interpreting • Interpreting Arabic – English • Grant-writing for Masters Students.

Assessment The final examinations of the Specialised Translation modules are externally moderated by the Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL) and may lead to exemption from Unit 1 of the Diploma in Translation (DipTrans), the professional-standard qualification in the UK.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements Applicants must have a 2:1 undergraduate degree or equivalent in a relevant area.

Students with a different academic background but significant professional experience in translation are also invited to apply. Students should possess at least Level C1, and preferably C2, of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (or equivalent for non- European languages) in their chosen language(s).

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Teaching This course offers different pathways according to the number of specialised translation modules (in one or two languages) that you take and whether you opt for the more vocationally orientated project(s) or the more research-focused dissertation.

Both pathways benefit from the varied delivery of content that consists of seminars, workshops, lectures, group projects, research seminars and individual tutorials.

Course information

Course information

Visual Culture MA

Languages, Cultures and Visual Arts research degrees

A distinctive interdisciplinary course that invites you to develop your knowledge and understanding of visual culture.

To study visual culture is a way of paying attention to phenomena that are everywhere. The concept of ‘visual culture’ acknowledges the all-pervasive nature of visual phenomena, and signals openness towards both the breadth of objects and images, and the range of theoretical and methodological perspectives needed to understand them adequately. Drawing upon our research strengths, the MA encourages a broad geographical and chronological scope, while allowing you to engage with a range of visual phenomena, including fine art, film, photography, architecture, and scientific and medical imaging practices. This course facilitates the development of critical visual literacy, by attending to the specificity of visual objects, images and events; and investigating the nature of perception, and how our relationships with other people, and with things, are bound up in the act of looking.

Typical course content Core modules: • Visual Culture: Theory and Practice • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Critical Curatorship • Visual Modernities • Crossing Cultures: Word, Text and Image in Translation • Transnational Cinema • Things That Matter: Material and Culture in/for the Digital Age • German Reading Skills for Research

• The Anglo-Saxon World Societies and Cultures: interdisciplinary approaches to early medieval England • An Exhibitionary Complex: Museums, Collecting and the Historical Imagination • Visualising Revolution: The Image of French Political Culture c.1789–1914 • Grant-Writing for Masters Students • Ethics of Cultural Heritage • Modernism and Touch • Classical Modernisms.

Teaching The course involves diverse modes of teaching and learning, from lectures and seminars to placement learning and skills development workshops. It also includes field trips to major museums and galleries.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements Applicants must have a 2:1 undergraduate degree or equivalent, or GPA average of 3.2 from a recognised national or international university in an arts, humanities or social science subject.

The course assumes no prior knowledge of visual arts and culture, but previous interest or experience of visual culture would be an advantage.

Applicants from non-English speaking countries will be required to complete a written assessment as part of their application.

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Assessment Assessment includes a book review exercise, an exhibition to analyse for your fieldwork report, and an object on which to write your critical commentary. You will also complete a dissertation.

The School of Modern Languages and Cultures is a great place to undertake postgraduate research.

We presently have over 40 research students from the UK, mainland Europe and around the globe, carrying out PhD or MA work on topics as diverse as translation, literature, theatre, digital humanities, cinema and visual culture, and participating in a variety of postgraduate activities, including the postgraduate forum and research seminars.

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The breadth of our staff expertise encompasses both traditional and emerging fields, and is informed by a variety of methodological and theoretical approaches that highlight the transnational, transcultural and interdisciplinary study of literatures, cultures and histories through different media.

MA or MSc by Research Students undertaking this degree work on a research topic of their choice under the guidance of a designated adviser from one of our constituent departments. We are able to provide specialised supervision on a wide range of cultural and linguistic topics and periods, reflecting our staff’s own research and scholarly interests.

Unlike our taught MA degrees, the MA by Research is a standalone degree and is assessed entirely by a 50,000-word thesis.

Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

PhD in Modern Languages and Cultures Students pursuing a PhD benefit from expert supervision that draws on the wide range of staff expertise in the School of Modern Languages and Cultures. Doctoral students are indeed an integral part of the School’s research culture, and they actively participate in a number of initiatives during their time with us: from work-in-progress workshops, to seminars and lectures organised by our interdisciplinary research groups, to dedicated training activities designed to strengthen their research profiles and future career opportunities.

Course length 3 years full-time.

6 years part-time.

The PhD is examined by a thesis (normally between 80,000 and 100,000 words) and an oral examination (viva voce).

“ Durham shaped both my research and teaching abilities, pushing me to become a better academic. My experience has helped me to compete for top jobs in the international academic market.”

Dr Adrián Gras-Velázquez

Music The Department of Music’s vibrant postgraduate research environment attracts high-calibre applicants from all over the world.

The Department’s research staff offer a broad spectrum of supervisory expertise in musicology, music analysis, ethnomusicology, music psychology, performance, and acoustic and electroacoustic composition. We offer you a high level of individual attention and personal support, and provide you with an experience of exceptionally high quality.

Ranking

In addition to fostering your intellectual growth as scholars and researchers, we assist your professional development by preparing you for the world of employment, providing opportunities for you to work as teaching and research assistants, to disseminate your research, and to participate in dedicated training courses.

1st

We offer both taught and research postgraduate programmes, and will be happy to offer advice on choosing the course that is best suited to your needs. Many of our postgraduate students choose to study full-time, but we also welcome part-time students. Whatever stage of your career you may be at, we endeavour to provide the necessary support to help you realise your professional aspirations.

Careers and employability Our MA graduates enter a wide range of career areas, including teaching, law, arts administration, business and finance. Further study is a particularly popular option for our MA graduates. Some progress into primary or secondary PGCEs and enter the teaching profession; others apply their research skills to pursue doctorates at Durham and other leading institutions. Some follow new career paths and complete professional training in, for example, law. This is often sponsored by future employers.

The opportunities open to those completing a PhD are wide and varied. Some remain within the higher education sector, either pursuing an academic career or in university administration, while others will use their specialist knowledge or generic skills gained from the PhD to have successful careers in other fields.

Joint 1st

in the UK for internationally excellent and world-leading research impact (REF 2014).

in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022.

1st

in The Guardian University Guide 2022.

3rd

in The Complete University Guide 2022.

Key research areas We are internationally recognised for our expertise in a range of distinctive yet complementary research areas. These include: • Ethnomusicology • Composition • Music and Science • Musicology • Performance • Theory and Analysis.

One of the leading centres in the UK for the study of music.

Course information

Course information

Music MA

Music research degrees

Join a vibrant international postgraduate community and study with scholars, composers and performers who have achieved international recognition in their fields.

The flexible modular structure of our taught MA course allows you to focus on a chosen area of specialism, but simultaneously facilitates exploration of a wide range of research areas relating to music. It provides an excellent foundation for undertaking postgraduate research at doctoral level, but would also benefit the professional development of musicians intending to pursue careers in teaching, arts administration, broadcasting and other domains.

Students on the taught MA course join a vibrant international postgraduate community, and study with scholars, composers and performers who have achieved international recognition in their fields.

The MA Music course supports study in the following areas of specialism:

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements A 2:1 (or equivalent) in an undergraduate music degree.

One sample of written work (2,000 words) on a musicological topic. There are other requirements – please see below.

Pathway specific modules: • Contemporary Musicology • Ethnomusicology in Practice and Theory

• Compositional Techniques • Music Performance • Advanced Topics in Music and Science • Major Projects (dissertation, composition portfolio, performance project) • Optional Module.

Teaching The course is delivered through a mixture of seminars, practical sessions and one-to-one supervision.

Durham is a world-leading centre for research in music, rated in the top three UK departments in the REF 2014 assessment.

We are internationally recognised for our expertise in a range of distinctive yet complementary research areas, working within and between the fields of musicology, ethnomusicology, theory and analysis, music and science, composition and performance.

Contact T: +44 (0) 191 334 2973 Email Learn more

These research interests are reflected in a number of high-profile collaborative projects as well as the work of individual staff members and research students. We welcome applicants who are interested in developing their own thesis on any aspect of musical enquiry that our expert academic staff are available to supervise.

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• Musicology • Ethnomusicology • Music and Science • Composition (acoustic and electronic) • Performance.

Typical course content Core module: • Research Methods and Resources.

Undertake new music research under the supervision of internationally known expert scholars.

Assessment Depending on the pathway, through essays, presentations, composition exercises and performance recitals. All MA students undertake a final independent project (dissertation, composition portfolio, or performance), which is developed with the help of one-to-one expert supervision.

MA by Research An MA by Research is distinct from the taught MA in Music in having no assessed modules. The MA by Research provides an opportunity to research towards a 50,000-word thesis.

Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

MMus An MMus is assessed by a 70,000-word thesis, or in the case of the MMus by Composition, a critical commentary of 12,000 words and 60-minute composition portfolio, or the MMus by Performance, a commentary of 30,000 words and a 60-minute recital.

Course length 2 years full-time.

4 years part-time.

PhD Research by Composition Research by Performance Research by Thesis The PhD is assessed via a 100,000-word thesis, or for Composition, by a 20,000-word critical commentary and 90-minute composition portfolio, or in the case of Performance, by a 70-minute recital and 50,000-word thesis.

Course length 3 years full-time.

6 years part-time.

Philosophy We have expertise in an exceptionally broad range of areas, including metaphysics, aesthetics, ethics, feminism, phenomenology, philosophy of mind and the history and philosophy of science and medicine.

We are, moreover, home to the Centre for Humanities Engaging Science and Society (CHESS).

All of the Department’s research staff are leading experts in their field. Not only are our staff well-placed to convey the cutting-edge work in their area of philosophy, but they are also high-quality teachers. We provide expert guidance and are available for one-to-one discussions. Our aim is to inspire our students to question everything, but also to foster a broad range of transferable skills, such as the ability to read and think analytically, to understand complex concepts, and to construct rational arguments.

Major grants We are home to several major research projects, funded by substantial grants from the Arts and Humanities Research Council, the European Research Council, the Wellcome Trust and other external bodies.

Typical course content • Aesthetics • Environmental Philosophy • Feminism • History and Philosophy of Science and Medicine • History of Philosophy

• Metaphysics • Moral Philosophy • Phenomenology and Continental Philosophy • Philosophical Logic and the Philosophy of Language • Philosophy of Mind and Action • Philosophy of Perception

Careers and employability A philosophy degree trains one to think clearly and rigorously, and also fosters a capacity for the kind of ‘blue-sky thinking’ that employers cherish. Our graduates enter a wide range of career areas including teaching, law, journalism, business and politics.

Ranking

Top 10

in The Guardian University Guide 2022.

Top 10

in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022.

World Top 100

in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2021.

Teaching ancient wisdom and skills for the modern world.

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Course information

Philosophy GDip

Philosophy MA

Designed for those who already have a degree and wish to pursue an interest in philosophy.

This Graduate Diploma provides an ideal learning environment if you are interested in progressing to an MA in Philosophy, or simply want the opportunity to learn about philosophy.

Course fact file Course length 9 months full-time.

18 months part-time.

Typical course content Core module: • Dissertation.

Typical entry requirements The entry requirements for this course have been designed to encourage applications from as wide a range of interested and able people as possible.

Applicants will usually have achieved a 2:1 or equivalent in a previous degree, but this is not a strict requirement and decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

Examples of optional modules: • Ethics and Values • Knowledge and Reality • Reading Philosophy • History and Theory of Medicine • Philosophy of Mind • Political Philosophy • Language, Logic and Reality

• Science and Religion • Modern Philosophy • Philosophy of Science • Aesthetics • Language and Mind • History of the Body • Metaphysics • Gender, Film and Society • History and Philosophy of Psychiatry • Formal and Philosophical Logic.

Teaching The course is delivered in the form of lectures, tutorials and seminars, depending on the modules you choose.

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Enjoy in-depth engagement in areas of philosophy in which we have internationally recognised expertise.

The MA Philosophy provides an ideal academic environment for those who would like to study the subject at a higher level in preparation for a PhD or as a basis for future employment.

Significant numbers of former students go on to further study.

The course includes research training and allows you to write a substantial dissertation on a topic that you wish to pursue at PhD level. Our staff members have expertise in a very wide range of areas, so there is considerable flexibility over your choice of dissertation topic.

Typical course content Core modules: • Dissertation • Philosophical Perspectives.

Examples of optional modules: • Ancient Philosophers on Necessity, Fate and Free Will • Forms After Plato • Science and The Enlightenment • Philosophy and Religion • Current Issues in Ethics

Assessment Assessment is by dissertation.

Typical entry requirements A 2:1 classification or higher at undergraduate level or equivalent qualification, with a substantial philosophy component.

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• Gender Theory and Feminist Philosophy • Phenomenology and The Sciences of Mind • Ethics, Medicine and History • Mind and Action • Philosophy of The Social Sciences • Environmental Philosophy • Special Topic in Philosophy • Moral and Corporate Trust: Trust and Business Ethics.

Teaching Modules are taught via group seminars and one-to-one tutorials.

Assessment Assessment is by dissertation.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Course information

Philosophy research degrees

At Durham, we believe that our research benefits from collaboration and from being shared with others, whose ideas and support give us greater confidence and provide inspiration.

We welcome applicants who are interested in developing their own MA/PhD thesis on any aspect of philosophical enquiry/history of science that our academic staff are available to supervise.

Moreover, we have expertise in an exceptionally broad range of areas, including metaphysics, aesthetics, ethics, feminism, phenomenology, philosophy of mind and the history and philosophy of science and medicine.

Contact T: +44 (0) 191 334 6553 Email Learn more

Our postgraduate students take part in a wide range of activities, including reading groups, research seminars and meetings of Eidos, our highly active postgraduate philosophy society. We are also home to the Centre for Humanities Engaging Science and Society (CHESS). Every year, we host numerous events, including workshops, major conferences and talks by leading figures such as Noam Chomsky and Peter Singer. There is a constant stream of visitors to the Department and a vibrant atmosphere.

Former postgraduate students have taken up posts at a number of prestigious institutions, including the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, the University of London, MIT, Harvard University, Caltech, Emory University, Cornell University, the University of Notre Dame (USA), Rhodes University (South Africa), the University of Canterbury (New Zealand) and Trinity College, Dublin.

MA in Philosophy (or History of Science by Research) An MA by Research is distinct from the taught MA in Philosophy (which includes structured courses of advanced study in specialist themes). The MA by Research provides a standalone degree, or may serve as preparation for further postgraduate study towards a PhD in Philosophy/History of Science. It is assessed by a major thesis of up to 50,000 words.

Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

PhD in Philosophy (or History of Science) The PhD is examined by a major thesis of up to 100,000 words and an oral examination (viva voce).

Course length 3 years full-time.

6 years part-time.

The Department has a thriving research postgraduate community.

Theology and Religion We study and respect the deepest of human convictions, whatever faith or ideology inspires them.

Our home, Abbey House (pictured right), is next door to Durham Cathedral, and is a beautiful and inspiring place to pursue research in theology and religion.

Ranking

Our postgraduate students benefit from regular research seminars and conferences and colloquia that place Durham at the centre of international scholarship. Also available for postgraduates is a professional development and training programme, which includes opportunities to work as a teaching or research assistant.

in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022.

2nd 3rd

in The Complete University Guide 2022.

Collections and research centres Library facilities are extensive, and the University’s main holdings are just the beginning. The Bill Bryson Library also hosts the Meissen Library, the largest collection of German language theological materials in Britain. Our neighbour Durham Cathedral houses the Sharp Library, which focuses on modern and pastoral theology, while some college libraries also hold extensive theological collections.

3rd

The Department is home to a range of research centres and projects, including the Centre for Anglican Studies, the Centre for Catholic Studies, the Centre for Death and Life Studies, and the Project for Spirituality, Theology and Health. These all help to foster a vibrant research culture, of which our postgraduates are an important part.

in The QS University World Subject Rankings 2021.

Typical course content • Anthropology of Religion • Ethics and Moral Theology • History and Theology of the Anglican Church • History and Theology of the Catholic Church • Medieval Theology • Patristics and the Early Church • Reformation and Early Modern Christianity

• Religion in the Modern World • Second Temple Judaism • Sociology of Religion • Spirituality, Theology and Health • Systematic and Philosophical Theology • The Bible: Theological, Historical and Textual Study • Theology and Ministry

in The Guardian University Guide 2022.

Top 5 1st

in the UK for internationally excellent and world-leading research (REF 2014).

Careers and employability Graduates enter a wide range of career areas, including law, government, marketing, business and finance, industry, charity work, teaching, media, the clergy and journalism.

Employers include: Linklaters, Kirkland and Ellis, Coltraco Ultrasonics, the Home Office, Durham Police and Jaguar Land Rover.

We are a recognised global leader in the exploration of theology and religion.

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Course information

Biblical Studies MA

Christian Theology MA

Deepen your knowledge of biblical studies.

This course focuses on the context and interpretation of biblical and pseudepigraphal texts, along with the study of biblical languages. Durham has a long tradition of outstanding biblical scholarship, providing a wide range of distinctive approaches to biblical studies, including historical, critical and theological.

Typical course content Core modules: • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Beginners’ New Testament Greek • Biblical Hebrew • Advanced Aramaic • Middle Egyptian • The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha and the New Testament • Gospels and Canon • Patristic Ecclesiology • Paul and His Interpreters • Christian Northumbria 600-750

• Anglican Theology in Context • Liturgy and Sacramentality • Twentieth Century Catholic Theology • Christian Gender • Principles of Theological Ethics • Theology, Ethics and Medicine • Literature and Religion • Catholic Social Thought • Ecclesiology and Ethnography • Doctrine of Creation • Religion in the Neo-Liberal Age.

Teaching Teaching is delivered through small-group seminars and tutorials. These exemplify and encourage the various skills and practices required for independent scholarly engagement with texts and issues. Teaching in the Department of Theology and Religion is ‘research led’. Research-led teaching is informed by staff research, but more importantly it aims to develop you as independent researchers, able to pursue and explore your own research interests and questions.

Assessment Assessment is via coursework and the completion of a dissertation.

Examine the history, philosophy, practices and teachings of the Christian faith.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements Normally an upper second class Honours degree (2:1) or equivalent (for example, a GPA of 3.7 on a 4.0 scale) in theology, religious studies or a related discipline.

This course involves the study of historical and systematic theology from a range of Christian perspectives. Durham has long-established strengths in both Greek and Latin patristics, the medieval Church and the Reformation, contemporary Catholic and Anglican theology, theological ethics, and philosophical theology.

Typical course content Core modules: • Classic Texts in Christian Theology • Dissertation.

Learn more Examples of optional modules: • Paul and his Interpreters • Gospels and Canon • The Bible and Hermeneutics • Patristic Exegesis • Christian Northumbria 600-750

“ I learned so much from world-class academics. Academic staff were supportive, approachable, and friendly.”

Rebecca Watts

• Anglican Theology in Context • Liturgy and Sacramentality • Christian Gender • Principles of Theological Ethics • Theology, Ethics and Medicine • Literature and Religion • Catholic Social Thought • Ecclesiology and Ethnography • Doctrine of Creation.

Teaching Teaching is delivered through small-group seminars and tutorials. These exemplify and encourage the various skills and practices required for independent scholarly engagement with texts and issues. Teaching in the Department of Theology and Religion is ‘research led’. Research-led teaching is informed by staff research, but more importantly it aims to develop you as independent researchers, able to pursue and explore your own research interests and questions.

Assessment Assessment is via coursework and the completion of a dissertation.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements Normally an upper second class Honours degree (2:1) or equivalent in theology, religious studies or a related discipline.

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“ I’ve enjoyed the interplay between biblical studies and systematic theology; and between students and lecturers alike, as we discussed ideas together from perspectives of different faiths and none.”

Amy Ward

Course information

Course information

Christian Theology (Anglican Studies) MA

Christian Theology (Catholic Studies) MA

Explore ethical, philosophical and systematic theology, historical theology and church history in the Anglican tradition.

This course focuses on the Anglican theological tradition within the more general context of Christian theology.

Durham offers unparalleled resources for the theological study of Anglicanism, a strong basis for which is provided by the Department’s close historical links with Durham Cathedral, the seat of numerous theologian-bishops.

Typical course content Core modules: • Anglican Theology in Context • Classic Texts in Christian Theology • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Paul and his Interpreters • Gospels and Canon • The Bible and Hermeneutics • Patristic Exegesis • Christian Northumbria 600-750

• Liturgy and Sacramentality • Christian Gender • Principles of Theological Ethics • Theology, Ethics and Medicine • Literature and Religion • Catholic Social Thought • Ecclesiology and Ethnography • Doctrine of Creation.

Teaching Teaching is delivered through small-group seminars and tutorials. These exemplify and encourage the various skills and practices required for independent scholarly engagement with texts and issues. Teaching in the Department of Theology and Religion is ‘research led’. Research-led teaching is informed by staff research, but more importantly it aims to develop you as independent researchers, able to pursue and explore your own research interests and questions.

Assessment Assessment is via coursework and the completion of a dissertation.

Explore ethical, philosophical and systematic theology, historical theology and church history in the Catholic tradition.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements Normally an upper second class Honours degree (2:1) or equivalent (for example, a GPA of 3.7 on a 4.0 scale) in theology, religious studies or a related discipline.

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This course focuses on the Catholic theological tradition within the more general context of Christian theology.

Durham has a strong interest in, and engagement with, contemporary Catholicism, with a Centre for Catholic Studies, the Bede Chair in Catholic Theology and the St Hilda Chair in Catholic Social Thought and Practice.

Typical course content Core modules: • Classic Texts in Christian Theology • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Twentieth Century Catholic Theology

• Conceiving Change in Contemporary Catholicism • Christian Gender • Principles of Theological Ethics • Patristic Ecclesiology • Patristic Exegesis • Catholic Social Thought.

Teaching Teaching is delivered through small-group seminars and tutorials. These exemplify and encourage the various skills and practices required for independent scholarly engagement with texts and issues. Teaching in the Department of Theology and Religion is ‘research led’. Research-led teaching is informed by staff research, but more importantly it aims to develop you as independent researchers, able to pursue and explore your own research interests and questions.

Assessment Assessment is via coursework and the completion of a dissertation.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements Normally an upper second class Honours degree (2:1) or equivalent (for example, a GPA of 3.7 on a 4.0 scale) in theology, religious studies or a related discipline.

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“ The MA introduced me to a vast and unique range of philosophical and theological texts, and topics which profoundly developed my professional and academic skills.”

Morgan Jackson

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Course information

Religion and Society MA

Theology and Religion MA

Study the anthropological and sociological aspects of religion.

This course looks at religion from anthropological and sociological perspectives. Durham has particular strengths in the study of Mormonism, death, dying and disposal, religion and emotion, religion/faith and globalisation, religion and politics, contemporary evangelicalism and post-evangelicalism, and religion and generational change. It also hosts the Centre for Death and Life Studies and the Project for Spirituality, Theology and Health.

Typical course content Core modules: • Researching Religion and Belief • Qualitative Methods in Social Science • Social Scientific Methods in the Study of Religion • Ritual Symbolism and Belief in the Anthropology of Religion • Dissertation.

Examples of optional modules: • Theology, Ethics and Medicine • Literature and Religion • Christian Northumbria 600-750 • Religion in the Neo-Liberal Age.

Teaching Teaching is delivered through small-group seminars and tutorials. These exemplify and encourage the various skills and practices required for independent scholarly engagement with texts and issues. Teaching in the Department of Theology and Religion is ‘research led’. Research-led teaching is informed by staff research, but more importantly it aims to develop you as independent researchers, able to pursue and explore your own research interests and questions.

Assessment Assessment is via coursework and the completion of a dissertation.

Deepen your knowledge of the subject of theology and religion and develop the necessary skills for further research.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements Normally an upper second class Honours degree (2:1) or equivalent (for example, a GPA of 3.7 on a 4.0 scale) in theology, religious studies or a related discipline.

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“ Building on different concepts, this course challenged me to wrestle with varying – and often, opposing – perspectives. In doing so, every module was a poignant re-evaluation of assumptions – both personal and societal.”

Christopher Chok

The MA Theology and Religion serves both the specific needs of those focused on progressing towards doctoral research and also of those looking to continue relatively broad-based postgraduate studies in theology and religion, for example in support of a career in teaching.

Typical course content Core modules: • Dissertation Examples of optional modules: • Advanced Hebrew Texts • Advanced Aramaic • Classic Texts in Christian Theology • Middle Egyptian • The Bible and Hermeneutics • Gospels and Canon • Patristic Exegesis • Patristic Ecclesiology • Paul and His Interpreters • Liturgy and Sacramentality • Twentieth Century Catholic Theology

• Christian Gender • Principles of Theological Ethics • Social Scientific Methods in the Study of Religion • Theology, Ethics and Medicine • Literature and Religion • Catholic Social Thought • Ecclesiology and Ethnography • Doctrine of Creation • Religion in the Neo-Liberal Age • The Thought of Thomas Aquinas in Context.

Teaching Teaching is delivered through small-group seminars and tutorials. These exemplify and encourage the various skills and practices required for independent scholarly engagement with texts and issues. Teaching in the Department of Theology and Religion is ‘research led’. Research-led teaching is informed by staff research, but more importantly it aims to develop you as independent researchers, able to pursue and explore your own research interests and questions.

Assessment Assessment is via coursework and the completion of a dissertation.

Course fact file Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

Typical entry requirements Normally an upper second class Honours degree (2:1) or equivalent (for example, a GPA of 3.7 on a 4.0 scale) in theology, religious studies or a related discipline.

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“ The MA offers an excellent range of modules that allows you not only to focus on what you are passionate about, but equally to explore avenues that you might not have expected!”

Andrew Boreland

Course information

Course information

Theology and Religion GDip

Theology and Religion research degrees

Interested in theology but have a degree in another discipline? Take this conversion course to enable you to study for an MA in Theology and Religion.

This course is intended for those who hold a Bachelor degree in another discipline, but who wish to acquire knowledge of theology and religion at a level that would permit them to undertake further study in the subject.

Typical course content Examples of optional modules: • Landscapes of Worship in Contemporary South Asia • Literature and Theology of the Old Testament • New Testament Theology • Topics in Christian Ethics • Death, Ritual and Belief • The Reformation and its Legacy • Christian Theology: Essential Questions • God, Freedom and the Soul • Philosophy and the Christian Tradition • Aramaic • Biblical Theology • Advanced Greek Texts • New Testament Ethics • Issues in Old Testament Studies • The First Urban Churches • Religion and Film

• Emotion and Identity in Religion • The Sociology of Conservative Protestantism • The Postmodern God • Peter and the Petrine Tradition • Christian Tradition and the Practice of Politics • The Letters of John and the origins of Gnosticism • The Historical Jesus • Reading Greek Sources about the Historical Jesus • Jesus Christ in the Twentieth Century • Faith and the Experience of War in the Christian World • Religions in Sub-Saharan Africa • Thomas Aquinas: Background, Context and Legacy • Religion, Media and Popular Culture.

Teaching Teaching is delivered through lectures, small-group seminars and tutorials.

Assessment Assessment is via coursework and the completion of a dissertation.

Course fact file Course length 9 months full-time.

21 months part-time.

Typical entry requirements Normally an upper second class Honours degree (2:1) or equivalent (for example, a GPA of 3.7 on a 4.0 scale), but applicants from nontraditional backgrounds or with other qualifications may be considered, subject to interview and a review of written work.

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We welcome applicants who are interested in developing their own MA/PhD thesis on any aspect of the subject that our wide range of academic staff is available to supervise.

Durham has world-leading expertise in the study of Theology and Religion, from a range of methodological and disciplinary perspectives: social scientific/anthropological, textual, biblical, historical, theological, ethical, and philosophical. Durham provides training in research skills for the study of Theology and Religion, including a wide range of ancient and modern languages.

Contact T: +44 (0) 191 334 3929 Email Learn more

The Theology and Religion Department hosts a lively programme of seminars and conferences, including events run for and by postgraduate students.

MA by Research An MA by Research is distinct from the range of taught MA courses offered by the Department. The MA by Research provides a standalone degree, or may serve as preparation for further postgraduate study towards a PhD in Theology and Religion.

It is assessed by a 50,000-word thesis.

Course length 1 year full-time.

2 years part-time.

DThM Doctor of Theology and Ministry The DThM is a professional doctorate that combines structured taught research training with supervised research. It is ideal for those who want to pursue research that links an aspect of practice with the core disciplines in theology and the study of religion.

Course length 3 years full-time.

6 years part-time.

IPhD PhD with Integrated Studies (first year taught) The PhD with Integrated Studies is a hybrid degree which allows you to combine a classic PhD with taught preparation roughly equivalent to a taught MA, within a single four-year course (eight years part-time).

Course length 4 years full-time.

8 years part-time.

PhD Doctor of Philosophy The PhD is examined by a 100,000-word thesis and an oral examination (viva voce).

Course length 3 years full-time.

6 years part-time.

Contact Durham University The Palatine Centre Stockton Road Durham DH1 3LE UK ENQUIRIES T: +44 (0) 191 334 1000 W: durham.ac.uk/study/askus

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