Course description
Introduction
Based on the simple premise that all conflicts, from the smallest to the largest, are enacted wholly or partly through the use of language, this MA is unique in providing a comprehensive programme of current theory and practice in the study of language which is applicable to conflict situations.
Making use of in-house staff expertise, it offers you a first-rate education in the examination of case studies and a range of topics which are not only central to the field but are also relevant to many aspects of the modern world. This approach to studying conflict is contextualised by a programme in which you have the opportunity to engage with visiting speakers representing a wide range of academic and applied expertise in conflict resolution and peace studies.
Graduates from this course will have the knowledge and skills to analyse conflict situations from a communicative perspective.
The following MAs are also available:
MA Modern English Language
MA Literary Studies
Course Structure
This is a modular course consisting of:
Four 30-credit taught modules -
-Analysing English, Analysing Conflict
-Sociolingusitics: Communication in Conflict
-Pragmatics: Conflict and Context
-Critical Discourse Analysis: Ideology in Conflict
One 60-credit research module culminating in a final Language in Conflict dissertation.
You will study two of the taught modules in the first term and the other two in the second term. Your time from the middle of April onwards will be devoted to the dissertation.
Teaching and Assessment
Teaching is by a combination of lecture, seminar and workshop activities, supported by opportunities for individual feedback and frequent consultation with staff.
Assessment varies across a range of types, including essays and projects (as well as the final dissertation). All assessed work is moderated and subject to second marking and external examining.
Teaching quality in English was highly commended in the most recent externally assessed subject review.
Career Opportunities
The knowledge and skills acquired on this course have many applications to careers in the public, commercial and third (voluntary) sectors. The course has relevance to any occupation requiring a high level of communication and interpersonal skills, but has particular relevance to work in UN bodies, other NGOs, mediation services, the NHS, social and community services and the police. Many such bodies have expressed interest in the course. It also provides a firm foundation for doctoral research.
Other Information
Staff in English Language are all actively involved in research and publication.
There is a vibrant research culture in English Language and the Department has a reputation for hosting major international conferences in language and linguistics, among which was the Linguistic Impoliteness and Rudeness Conference of 2006.
Regular research seminars, which all postgraduate students are expected to attend, offer access to world-class researchers in the process of developing new areas of enquiry and provide opportunities to develop understanding of a broad range of research areas in language-related studies.
