Course summary
The MA Early Modern and Renaissance Studies offers you the opportunity to explore this era from a range of disciplinary perspectives, including the study of:
- literature
- history
- material culture
- the visual arts.
- Our students have access to some of the best resources in the world for research relating to this period, being close to many renowned research libraries, galleries, museums and manuscript repositories. The MA Early Modern and Renaissance Studies teaches you the skills you need to explore these rich resources in original and scholarly ways.
- In addition to core teaching and individual research support, you will have the opportunity to attend the London Renaissance Seminar, a forum held at Birkbeck where you will be able to hear some of the best scholars in the field presenting and discussing their newest research in all aspects of early modern literature, history and culture.
- Birkbeck was ranked 2nd in the UK for its English Language and Literature research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.
- We offer a number of master's bursaries and studentships.
- archivist
- researcher
- teacher or lecturer
- journalist
- publisher
- arts administrator
- museum/gallery curator
- museum education officer
- librarian
- information officer
- heritage manager
- editor.
- high-level oral and written communication skills
- postgraduate research skills
- postgraduate skills in evaluating and assessing information
- the ability to present an argument at postgraduate level.
Modules
For information about course structure and the modules you will be studying, please visit Birkbeck’s online prospectus.
Assessment method
You will be assessed primarily through coursework, including essays and commentaries. Assessment may also include presentations and the curation of material culture and visual arts.
How to apply
International applicants
If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests. If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement, we offer pre-sessional English courses and foundation programmes to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.
Entry requirements
Our standard postgraduate entry requirement is a second-class honours degree (2:2 or above) from a UK university, or an equivalent international qualification Applications are reviewed on their individual merits and your professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be taken into consideration positively. We actively support and encourage applications from mature learners.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
England | £10800 | Year 1 |
Northern Ireland | £10800 | Year 1 |
Scotland | £10800 | Year 1 |
Wales | £10800 | Year 1 |
International | £19830 | Year 1 |
Additional fee information
Provider information
Birkbeck, University of London
Malet Street
Bloomsbury
London
WC1E 7HX
Course contact details
Visit our course pageBirkbeck Student Advice Service
0203 907 0700