MA Tudor and Stuart History by Research

Program Overview

This interdisciplinary MA program explores the Tudor dynasty through seminars led by experts, fostering critical thinking and research skills. Students delve into various aspects of the period, including politics, art, and literature, culminating in a dissertation that showcases their original research contribution. The program is part-time and based in London, providing access to historical resources and cultural institutions.

Program Outline

The program encourages students to consider the interplay of political, architectural, artistic, and social history during this period.

Objectives:

• Equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct independent research on the Tudor dynasty.
• Foster critical thinking and analytical skills through in-depth study of primary and secondary sources.
• Support students in developing strong research and writing abilities.
• Help students gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and significance of the Tudor era.

Description:

• Students will attend a series of ten seminars led by internationally recognized experts in their respective fields.
• Seminars will delve into the origins of the Tudor dynasty, the government of the early Tudor state, the reign of Henry VIII, female monarchy, material culture, propaganda and print, architectural patronage, artistic patronage, and the development of Renaissance literature and drama during the Tudor period.
• Students will receive individualized guidance and support from their supervisor throughout the research and writing process.
• The program culminates in a dissertation that allows students to demonstrate their research expertise and original contribution to the field.

Outline:

Program Content:

• The program covers a wide range of topics related to the Tudor dynasty, including:
• The Wars of the Roses
• Government of the early Tudor state
• The reign of Henry VIII
• Female monarchy
• Material culture
• Propaganda and print
• Architectural patronage
• Artistic patronage
• Renaissance literature and drama

Structure:

• The program consists of ten seminars, each focusing on a specific aspect of the Tudor period.
• Seminars will be held in the early evening at the Reform Club in Pall Mall.
• Each seminar will include a 30-minute question and answer session with the speaker.
However, each seminar can be considered a module with its own specific focus.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• The program assesses students based on the quality of their research and writing in the dissertation.
• Students will also be assessed on their participation in seminars and their ability to engage critically with the material.

Assessment Criteria:

• The dissertation will be assessed on the following criteria:
• Originality and contribution to knowledge
• Research methodology
• Analysis and interpretation of sources
• Writing and presentation

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• The program utilizes a seminar-based approach, fostering interactive learning and discussion.
• Students will receive individualized guidance and support from their supervisor.

Faculty:

• The program features a team of internationally recognized experts in Tudor history.
• The Course Director is Glyn Redworth, a Fellow of The University of Buckingham's Humanities Research Institute and member of the History Faculty of Oxford University.

Unique Approaches:

• The program provides students with the opportunity to learn from leading scholars in the field.
• The interdisciplinary approach allows students to consider the Tudor period from multiple perspectives.
• The focus on independent research fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Careers:

Career Paths:

• Graduates of the program can pursue careers in:
• Academia
• Research
• Heritage and cultural institutions
• Museums
• Archives
• Education
• Journalism
• Publishing

Other:

• The program is offered part-time, making it suitable for students who are working or have other commitments.
• Students have the option to become Associate Students, allowing them to attend the seminar series without completing the coursework or dissertation.
• The program is based in London, providing students with access to a wealth of historical resources and cultural institutions.

Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear. Please note that The University of Buckingham has four terms per year. Students will pay the same termly fee for the duration of their studies, unless studies are interrupted and resumed later. The tuition fee quoted is therefore the total cost of the degree.