Modern Languages MRes

Program Overview

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The MRes in Modern Languages and Language Area Studies at the University of Chester offers students the opportunity to conduct independent research in their chosen field. The program emphasizes developing a substantial piece of scholarly research while contributing to academic discussions about methods and approaches within the discipline. Students will benefit from a supportive learning environment with strong individual guidance and supervision. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, teaching, government, international organizations, NGOs, and the cultural sector.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

This MRes program offers graduates the opportunity to conduct independent, in-depth research in a field of Modern Languages and Language Area Studies. It emphasizes developing a substantial piece of scholarly research while contributing to academic discussions about methods and approaches within the discipline. The program provides a supportive environment for students to design and complete their research dissertations.

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Objectives:

• To develop independent research skills in Modern Languages and Language Area Studies.
• To contribute to academic debates about the methods, approaches, and practices that underpin the discipline.
• To produce a substantial and original piece of scholarly research in the form of a dissertation.

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Outline:

The MRes program in Modern Languages consists of two primary components:

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Research Methodology (40 credits):

• Double Core Module: "Research into Cultural Identities":
• Provides students with the necessary skills and background knowledge for successful completion of Master's level programs in Languages and Cultures.
• Covers topics such as the construction, development, and representation of cultural identities.
• Explores issues of migration, multiculturalism, and globalization.
• Introduces students to diverse resources, including archives and online materials.
• Develops critical skills for analyzing and evaluating sources.
• Emphasizes the application of scholarly conventions in presentations.

Extended Dissertation (140 credits):

• Research Dissertation Module:
• Divided into three stages, allowing students to work closely with their dissertation supervisor.
• Stage 1: Exploring existing literature on the chosen topic.
• Stage 2: Planning the research project.
• Stage 3: Writing up the dissertation.
• Students choose their dissertation topic in consultation with their supervisor, reflecting their research interests and the Department's research specialisms.

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Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Essays
• Literature reviews
• Oral presentations
• Research Dissertation (up to 28,000 words)

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Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: Seminar-based, plus online sessions and individual tutorials.
• Faculty: Dr. Brenda Garvey (Deputy Head of Department) and other research-active faculty members.
• Unique Approaches:
• Strong emphasis on individual support and guidance from supervisors.
• Integration of online learning activities to enhance the learning experience.

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Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
• Research roles in academia or research institutions.
• Teaching positions in higher education.
• Careers in government, international organizations, or NGOs.
• Opportunities in the cultural sector (e.g., museums, archives, libraries).
• Careers Service:
• The University of Chester offers an award-winning Careers and Employability service to help students prepare for their careers.
• This service provides individual information, advice, and guidance, as well as workshops and opportunities for part-time jobs.

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Other:

• Research Strengths: The Department has particular strengths in postcolonial, political, literary, and cultural studies in Europe and the francophone, Hispanic, German, and Chinese-speaking worlds.
• Learning Environment: The program emphasizes a supportive learning environment, with a strong focus on individual guidance and supervision.

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Note:

While the provided context details the MRes program, it doesn't explicitly mention specific assessment criteria, course schedules, or unique teaching approaches beyond what is already outlined.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

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Home Students

The tuition fees for home students studying Postgraduate Research Programmes (Classroom) in the academic year 2024/25 are £4,786 per year.

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International/EU Students

The tuition fees for international students studying Postgraduate Research Programmes (Classroom) in the academic year 2024/25 are £14,644 per year. The University of Chester offers generous international and merit-based scholarships for postgraduate study, providing a significant reduction to the published headline tuition fee. You will automatically be considered for these scholarships when your application is reviewed, and any award given will be stated on your offer letter. For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section. Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.

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Additional Costs

Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees. If you are living away from home during your time at university, you will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills.

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Bursaries and Funding

The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships. Full details, as well as terms and conditions for all bursaries and scholarships can be found on the Fees & Finance section of our website.