PhD Biography

Program Overview

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The PhD Biography program at the University of Buckingham equips students with the skills to conduct independent research and write high-quality biographies. It offers a flexible structure, one-on-one supervision, and a range of guest seminars. Graduates pursue careers in academia, publishing, cultural institutions, and more, leveraging their expertise in research, writing, and critical analysis.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Objectives:

• This program aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct independent research and write a high-quality biography.
• The program focuses on developing students' critical thinking, research, and writing abilities within the historical context.
• It provides a unique opportunity to explore the lives of historical figures and contribute to the field of biographical scholarship.

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Description:

• The PhD Biography program offers a flexible structure that can be completed full-time (3 years) or part-time (6 years).
• Students benefit from one-on-one supervision with experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields.
• The program offers a range of guest seminars led by leading biographers, memoirists, critics, publishers, and agents.
• The program places emphasis on understanding individual subjects within their historical, social, and political contexts.

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Other:

• The program also welcomes students interested in life writing or critical literary biography.
• Students have the opportunity to learn from academics across faculties, including Dr. Pete Orford (author of a biography on Charles Dickens) and Dr. Peter Sloane (expert in refugee life writing and memoir).

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Outline:

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Content:

• The program covers a broad range of topics related to biography, including:
• Classical biographies and memoirs
• Contemporary writing
• Research methods specifically designed for biographers
• Historical periods from the Early Modern era to the present day

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Structure:

• The program consists of two phases:
• Phase 1:
Students attend weekly seminars on Autobiography, Special Paper in Biography, and Research Methods.
• Phase 2: Students focus on conducting independent research and writing their thesis under the supervision of a faculty member.
• Students benefit from small group classes once or twice a term for peer support and discussion.

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Modules:

• Autobiography: This module explores classic autobiographies and memoirs, focusing on the development of the genre and its key features.
• Special Paper in Biography: This module allows students to delve deeper into a specific area of biographical study based on their individual interests.
• Research Methods: This module equips students with the necessary skills and techniques for conducting historical research, including archival research, oral history, and critical analysis of sources.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Essays and research papers
• Presentations
• Participation in seminars and discussions
• Thesis (80,000-100,000 words)

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Assessment Criteria:

• The program emphasizes the following criteria in assessing student work:
• Originality of research
• Depth of analysis
• Clarity and coherence of writing
• Effective use of sources
• Adherence to academic standards and referencing style (MHRA)

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program utilizes a combination of teaching methods, including:
• Interactive seminars
• One-on-one supervision
• Guest lectures from renowned experts
• Small group discussions

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Faculty:

• The program boasts a team of experienced and accomplished faculty members, including:
• Dr. Ophelia Field, Programme Director and author of critically acclaimed biographies on Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough, and the Kit-Cat Club
• Dr. Christina Dykes, Lecturer and author of a PhD thesis on Bend'or, 2nd Duke of Westminster
• Professor Jane Ridley, Programme Founder and Emeritus Professor, renowned biographer with publications on historical figures like Edward VII and George V

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Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes one-on-one supervision, providing students with personalized guidance and support throughout their research journey.
• Guest lectures and seminars provide students with insights from leading figures in the field of biography and publishing.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Graduates of the program have pursued careers in various fields, including:
• Academia (further studies at prestigious universities)
• Publishing (working as editors, agents, or biographers)
• Cultural institutions (museums, libraries, archives)
• Journalism and media
• Government and policy
• Research and writing

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Opportunities and Outcomes:

• The program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in a variety of research-oriented careers.
• Graduates have secured positions at leading universities, publishing houses, and cultural institutions worldwide.
The program's comprehensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and personalized supervision provide students with the necessary tools to develop their research and writing skills and embark on successful careers in various fields.

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Start Type 1st Year Total cost Sep 2024 Full-time (3 Years) UK £8,267 £24,800 INT £14,500 £43,500 Sep 2024 Part-time (6 Years) UK £4,133 £24,800 INT £7,250 £43,500 Jan 2025 Full-time (3 Years) UK £8,267 £24,800 INT £14,500 £43,500 Jan 2025 Part-time (6 Years) UK £4,133 £24,800 INT £7,250 £43,500