Humanities research degree MPhil/PhD

Program Overview

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The MPhil/PhD in Humanities at De Montfort University offers students the opportunity to conduct in-depth research in their chosen field within the Humanities. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in academia, research, or other relevant fields. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in a variety of industries.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview

• Excellent employment record: Many alumni hold postdoctoral and lectureship positions.
• Dedicated training for PhD students: Includes workshops on writing, teaching, presenting, and conference organization.
• Diverse research areas: Sports history, minority cultures, photography history, film adaptations, creative writing, textual scholarship, and Shakespeare.
• Extensive publications: Students and alumni have published in peer-reviewed journals and edited collections.
• Strong creative writing program: Collaboration with the Leicester Centre for Creative Writing and involvement in regional writing networks.
• Internationally acclaimed English Language and Literature program: Leading research in various fields, from medieval to contemporary literature.
• Dedicated Textual Studies Centre: Focuses on traditional textual scholarship and innovative technologies for literary development.
• Active Centre for Adaptations: Explores the adaptation of literary texts across various media.
• Recognized History program: Focuses on social and cultural themes, particularly migration, diaspora, ethnicity, global history, and national identity.
• Leading International Centre for Sports History and Culture: Well-known experts in football, rugby, and women's sport.
• Unique Photographic History Research Centre: Approaches photography history as a multifaceted cultural process.

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Objectives

• Develop advanced research skills in a specific field within the Humanities.
• Produce a high-quality thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge.
• Gain experience in presenting and discussing research findings at conferences and in publications.
• Prepare for a career in academia, research, or other relevant fields.

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Program Description

The MPhil/PhD in Humanities is a research-focused program designed to allow students to conduct in-depth research in their chosen field. Students work closely with supervisors to develop their research project, conduct their research, and write a thesis. The program is offered on a full-time or part-time basis.

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Outline

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Content

The program covers a wide range of topics within the Humanities, including:

• English Language and Literature
• History
• Creative Writing
• Textual Studies
• Adaptations
• Sports History and Culture
• Photographic History

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Structure

The program is divided into two stages:

• Stage 1 (Probationary Period): Students complete coursework and develop their research proposal.
• Stage 2 (Research Period): Students conduct their research and write their thesis.

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Course Schedule

The program is offered on a full-time or part-time basis. Full-time students are expected to complete their degree within 3 years, while part-time students are expected to complete their degree within 6 years.

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Individual Modules

• Research Methods: Introduces students to the key research methods used in the Humanities.
• Literature Review: Guides students through the process of conducting a comprehensive literature review.
• Writing for Publication: Provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to write for academic journals and other publications.
• Presenting Research: Helps students develop the skills needed to present their research findings at conferences and other events.

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Assessment

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Assessment Methods

• Thesis: The main assessment method is the thesis, which is a substantial piece of original research.
• Formal Review: Students submit a formal review of their research progress at the end of Stage 1.
• Annual Review: Students participate in an annual review with their supervisor and an independent assessor.
• Viva Voce Examination: Upon completion of the thesis, students undergo an oral examination with two academic examiners.

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Assessment Criteria

• Originality and contribution to knowledge: The thesis should make an original and significant contribution to the field of study.
• Methodology: The research methods used should be appropriate for the research question and should be conducted rigorously.
• Analysis and interpretation: The thesis should demonstrate a thorough analysis and interpretation of the research findings.
• Writing and presentation: The thesis should be well-written and presented in a clear and concise manner.

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Teaching

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Teaching Methods

• Supervision: Students receive one-to-one supervision from academic experts in their field.
• Seminars: Students attend seminars to discuss their research and other relevant topics.
• Workshops: Students participate in workshops to develop their research and other skills.
• Conferences: Students are encouraged to present their research at conferences.

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Faculty

The program is taught by a team of experienced and internationally renowned researchers.

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Unique Approaches

• Interdisciplinary focus: The program encourages students to draw on insights from different disciplines within the Humanities.
• Emphasis on research skills: The program provides students with the opportunity to develop their research skills through a variety of methods.
• Strong links with industry: The program has strong links with a variety of organizations in the cultural and creative industries.

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Careers

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Potential Career Paths

• Academia
• Research
• Cultural and creative industries
• Education
• Journalism
• Government
• Non-profit organizations

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Opportunities

• The program provides students with the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in a variety of fields.
• Students have the opportunity to network with potential employers through the program's links with industry.

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Outcomes

• Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in academia, research, and other relevant fields.
• The campus is located in the city center and has a variety of amenities, including libraries, computer labs, and cafes.
• The program is open to students from all over the world.