Course summary

Overview The English landscape has been described as the richest historical record we possess. Society has developed in geographical pockets, as reflected in our attitudes, beliefs, social structures, industries – and our accents. Our MA will provide you with the skills you need to read the landscape, and to unearth clues about the relationship between human beings and the natural environment. Our approach to Landscape History is deliberately eclectic – unconstricted by eras or geographical boundaries. You’ll study materials ranging from prehistory to the present day, from early estates and territories, to historic gardens and wartime pillboxes. You’ll discover long-term trends, and the enduring legacy our landscapes have had on local and regional communities. Our Master’s course offers intensive and practical preparation for further postgraduate study. However, it is also ideal preparation to enter professions requiring knowledge of the historic environment, such as tourism, heritage and conservation work. About This Course Our landscape is a living record of the way humans have interacted with the land; how we’ve exerted our will over it – and how it in turn has shaped our society. Our Master’s course will arm you with the skills you need to read the landscape, as well as knowledge of the practical and theoretical issues involved in the study of the countryside. You’ll study the relationship between human beings and the natural environment from prehistory to the present day. You’ll look at man-made and semi-natural spaces, such as wood pastures and heaths, in the context of historical ecology. And you’ll examine regions – why they exist, and the behaviours and patterns they create. You’ll undergo intensive practical training in Geographical Information Systems, which will prove invaluable in your independent studies. You’ll discover where to seek out historical and archaeological information. And you’ll even learn how to read historic handwriting in our English Palaeography module. Your dissertation will form a large part of the course. It will allow you to select and focus on a particular place of interest or a specific research question. We have a huge range of expertise within our School, which means we can provide supervision for a wide range of topics. And we’re proud to say that a substantial number of our students’ dissertations have gone on to form the basis for published articles. Throughout the course, you’ll also discover how an understanding of the historic environment has applications within the heritage industry, conservation agencies, local government and archaeological management, all of which will offer excellent career opportunities following graduation. Or you may wish to undertake further postgraduate study, for which the MA will provide invaluable preparation. Disclaimer Course details are subject to change. You should always confirm the details on the provider's website: www.uea.ac.uk