Course Overview

The MA in Renaissance Studies explores the question of what the Renaissance was and what approaches are best suited to understanding it. From the start, you will undertake training in postgraduate research skills. For example, in the second term of your degree, you are offered a practical study of paleography. The summer core course is based around the materials of Renaissance evidence: objects, painting, manuscript, and print. We explore a range of methodologies. The program considers different aspects of Renaissance culture, particularly the social and intellectual histories of England, France, Italy, and Spain. You will study with Birkbeck's internationally recognized experts in Renaissance English literature and culture, history of art, French, history, and Spanish, tailoring your module choices towards chosen specialisms. By the end of the course, you will be able to demonstrate a conceptual understanding of the questions associated with the study of the Renaissance and will have had the opportunity to either specialize or work in an interdisciplinary way.

General Eligibility

A second-class honors degree (2:2) or above, preferably in a subject relevant to Renaissance studies (for example, classics, history, history of art, literature, and languages, philosophy, or political science). We also welcome students with backgrounds in other disciplines too (e.g. medical, commercial, scientific).

Part Time Work Details

Language Requirement

• 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.