Ancient History, MA by Research

Swansea University

COURSE OVERVIEW

An MA by Research in Ancient History enables you to undertake a research project led by your own historical passions and interests.

Your project will take one year full-time or two years part-time. It is suitable if you want to undertake a first research degree as a culmination of taught studies, or if you are considering further research in form of a PhD.

You will submit a thesis of up to 40,000 words, demonstrating original research with a significant contribution to the subject area. This is followed by an oral examination of the thesis.

You can study a topic related to the history, culture, or archaeology of the classical world, from Mycenaean Greece to the fall of the Roman Empire.

Our expertise spans from the ancient cultures and languages of Egypt, Greece, and Rome, to the history of late twentieth and early twenty-first-century Europe. The research of our staff and postgraduates is integral to the life of the department, making Swansea a dynamic and stimulating place to study.

A number of research groups also offer focus and community for staff and postgraduates:

• the Centre for Medieval and Early Modern Research (MEMO)
• the Centre for research into Gender in Culture and Society (GENCAS)

Working at an elite academic level, you are introduced to key concepts and interpretative techniques shaping the study of ancient civilisations in the modern world.

You will develop and hone research skills needed for high-level work in any field of ancient history, and the skills and training programmes available on campus provide further support.

As a research student, you are required to attend valuable skills and training courses. You will have the opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars, and at the College of Arts and Humanities Postgraduate conference.

Programme Summary

This MA by Research in Ancient History at Swansea will enable you to undertake a research project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can enable a future career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 40,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The Masters is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support.

Programme Aims

This Masters programme will provide students with:

1. The opportunity to conduct high quality postgraduate research in a world leading research environment.
2. Key skills needed to undertake advanced academic and non-academic research including qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
3. Advanced critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and independent judgement.