(MA) Children’s Literature and Literacies
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MA in Children's Literature and Literacies program provides an in-depth exploration of children's literature and literacy, equipping students with critical thinking, research skills, and advanced communication abilities. Through a range of modules and an independent research project, graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of the field and prepare for careers in education, publishing, research, and more. The program offers both full-time and part-time study options, fostering a supportive and personalized learning environment.
Program Outline
You will critically explore classic and contemporary texts across diverse genres, ranging from poetry and picture books to graphic novels and digital applications. The program equips you with:
- In-depth knowledge and understanding of children's literature and literacy.
- Critical thinking and analytical skills.
- Research methodologies and methods appropriate for researching children's literature and literacies.
- Advanced written and communication skills.
Objectives:
- Develop a broad, inclusive, critical, and contemporary understanding of children's literature and literacies.
- Enhance your subject and research expertise in this interdisciplinary field.
- Investigate the influence of these texts on children's learning experiences.
- Foster independent research skills and a critical approach to research methods and professional situations.
- Produce an independent research project (MA dissertation) reflecting your individual ambitions, research engagement, and critical analysis.
Outline:
|---|---|---|---| | Children's Literate Lives | Discusses the "literate lives" of children from their early years to school age, exploring debates about their encounters with literature and the definition of children's texts. | 15 | Essay | | Children's Literature: Words, Pictures, Voices | Examines the history and critical debates in children's literature, investigating a range of texts and their representation of diversity, politics, and social contexts. | 15 | Essay | | Researching Children's Literature and Literacies | Explores research methodologies and ethics, focusing on conducting research with children and young people while considering power dynamics, ethical considerations, and research design. | 15 | Essay | | Children's Literacies: Now, New, Next | Analyzes current trends, genres, and issues in children's literature and literacy, focusing on digital literacies, visual culture, and the evolution of books into multimedia experiences. | 15 | Essay | | Poetics and Politics of Identity | Investigates the complexities of representing identity in English literature through contemporary theories, exploring the relationship between identity and narrative elements, and studying models of research and literary scholarship. | 15 | Essay | | Critiquing and Theorising Literature | Analyzes how interdisciplinary research methods and digital humanities are shaping English Studies, exploring current and emerging critical approaches, research methods, and theories. | 30 | Essay | | Dissertation | 60 | Dissertation |
Assessment:
Methods:
- Essays
- Dissertation
Criteria:
Assessments are based on the following criteria:
- Critical thinking and analysis
- Research skills and knowledge
- Written and communication skills
- Originality and creativity
Unique Approaches:
The program offers a personalized approach to learning, allowing students to tailor their assessments to their interests and produce their individual dissertations.
Careers:
This specialized and interdisciplinary program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to pursue various professional and research opportunities.
Target Audiences:
- Primary and secondary school teachers
- Librarians
- Researchers and academics in the field of children's literature and literacy
- Enthusiasts seeking to deepen their knowledge in these areas
Potential Careers:
- Teacher of English or literacy
- Children's book author
- Editor or publisher of children's books
- Literacy consultant
- Academic researcher in the field of children's literature
- The program has an established part-time route, allowing students to study in the evenings while working.
- Students are encouraged to attend regular literary events, workshops, and presentations organized by the university and staff.
- The university offers a supportive learning environment with personalized attention from staff.
Bishop Grosseteste University: A Summary
Overview:
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) is a public university located in Lincoln, England. It is known for its high student satisfaction rates, ranking first in the UK for student satisfaction according to the Times Higher Education. BGU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, with a particular focus on teacher training and other education-related programs.
Services Offered:
BGU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
BGU boasts strong academic support, ranking first in the National Student Survey 2024 for this category.Student Advice & Wellbeing:
The university offers dedicated support services for student well-being, including counseling and guidance.Library:
BGU has a well-equipped library with extensive resources for students.IT Services:
Students have access to various IT resources and support.Accommodation:
BGU provides on-campus accommodation options for students.Careers:
The university offers career guidance and support to help students find employment after graduation.Alumni Network:
BGU has a strong alumni network that provides support and networking opportunities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
BGU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various clubs and societies, engage in sports activities, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Students' Union. The university is located in the historic city of Lincoln, offering a rich cultural experience and numerous attractions.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High Student Satisfaction:
BGU consistently ranks high in student satisfaction surveys, indicating a positive learning environment and supportive community.Strong Academic Support:
The university provides excellent academic support services to help students succeed in their studies.Focus on Teacher Training:
BGU is a leading provider of teacher training programs, offering various routes into teaching.Vibrant Campus Life:
BGU offers a lively campus experience with numerous opportunities for student engagement.Location in Lincoln:
The university is situated in a historic and charming city with plenty to offer students.Academic Programs:
BGU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Courses:
BGU offers a variety of undergraduate degrees in various fields, including education, business, humanities, and social sciences.Postgraduate Courses:
The university offers postgraduate programs, including Master's degrees and doctoral studies, with a strong focus on teacher training and education-related fields.Apprenticeships:
BGU offers degree apprenticeships in various fields, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning a degree.Other:
Entry Requirements
For both EU Home students and international overseas students:
- Degree: An undergraduate honours degree with a minimum of lower second class honours (or equivalent). This is the general requirement for postgraduate studies in the UK.
- Consultation: Prospective students may be required to attend a consultation with the program leader or a member of the academic team before commencing the course. Telephone consultations are also an option.
- Campus Visit: All prospective students are welcome to arrange a campus visit before enrollment. This allows them to get a firsthand impression of the university, facilities, and program environment.
Additional Notes:
- Bishop Grosseteste University adheres to a strict policy of non-discrimination in its admissions process. However, international students whose first language is not English may need to provide evidence of English language proficiency, such as an IELTS or TOEFL score. This is a common requirement for postgraduate programs in the UK.
- The MA Children’s Literature and Literacies course is ideal for primary and secondary school teachers, librarians, and other professionals who want to deepen their knowledge and skills in this area.
- The program is designed to enhance employability and academic progression in these subjects. The university also provides additional support to ensure that students have a successful learning experience.
