Course description
Course structure
The course is made up of two required and two optional elements:
(i) Subject-based modules: tuition in spoken and written Catalan. Classes/ seminars on linguistic, political and literary aspects of Catalan cultural history
(ii) Directed Reading modules (optional): deeper, supervised study of a specialized topic
(iii) Dissertation on a chosen specialist subject: (a standard or a longer form is available)
(iv) Research Training modules (optional): training in research skills and methodology for Catalan studies (possibly including Catalan language).
Course design
Like all the the University's MA programmes, the MA in Catalan Studies is modular; it is awarded on successful completion of modules to the value of 180 credits. For the standard MA this figure is made up of 120 credits taught modules - that is, subject-based and/ or Directed Reading modules - plus a 60 credit dissertation. The modules available, their value in credits, and their identification codes are listed below.
Taught MA students who plan to progress to an MPhil or PhD follow a special 'Research Track' version of the MA. This comprises 90 credits of taught modules (including between 30 and 45 credits of Research Training modules) and a longer, 90 credit, dissertation.
A Diploma in Catalan Studies may be awarded on the successful completion of approved taught modules to the value of 120 credits.
Approved taught modules
(i) Subject-based modules
These modules have general titles, allowing some negotiation of content between students and supervisors.
-Catalan Advanced Language and Culture
-Specialised Catalan Language
-Catalan Cultural and Literary Studies I
-Catalan Cultural and Literary Studies II
(ii) Directed Reading module
This allows students to amplify and extend a topic encountered in the subject-based module, or to develop a newer interest. Because topics are negotiated between student and supervisor this module has no title
(iii) Dissertation
-Dissertation I (12,000 - 15,000 words)
-Dissertation II ('Research track' version:
20,000 - 25,000 words)
(iv) Research training modules
These are designed to equip postgraduates who plan to pursue a research degree (MPhil or PhD) with key skills and concepts for work in Hispanic studies.
-Research Methodology for Hispanic Studies
-Concepts, Sources and Methods of Hispanic
-Research I
-Concepts, Sources and Methods of Hispanic
-Research II
The following may, with prior permission, also be counted as Research Training Modules:
-Catalan Language I 15 credits
-Catalan Language II 15 credits
In addition, the University and the Graduate School offer more general research training modules which can form part of this degree.
Assessment
Elements (i), (ii) and (iv) are assessed by coursework assignments. These are normally submitted in Catalan. Preparation for element (iii) (the dissertation) may include a written or practical test. The supervisor may require the dissertation to be submitted in Catalan or English, depending on the nature of the topic. (There is no separate assessment for linguistic competence; this is assessed as an integral part of the course.) The MA examination may include a viva with the External Examiner.
