MA by Research
The MA by Research (12 months full-time, 24 months part-time) differs from the taught MA in that students come fully prepared to engage in their own independent research and therefore already have a well defined topic on which they wish to write, as well as skills to carry independent research forward. No course-work is required: you are only expected to submit a dissertation of 40,000 words.
The Department offers research expertise and supervision across a range of areas of Italian literature and culture, from 1250 to the present day. For details, see:
Although the emphasis in the MA by Research is on independent research guided by a supervisor, you may find it useful as part of your training to join other students on the ‘Research and Critical Reading Skills’ module offered as part of the taught MA in Italian Studies offered jointly with Birmingham University. MA by Research students are welcomed into all aspects of the Department’s seminars and research activities.
Entry requirements
Applicants normally need a good undergraduate degree of at least 2:1 standard (‘B’ average in North America; 108/110 in Italy) to be considered for the MA by Research. They must give evidence of strong research and writing skills and provide a solid research proposal in one or more areas of expertise offered by the Department.
Applying
You may apply at any time of the academic year, although it is sensible to do this as early as possible, particularly if you are seeking sources of funding. You should include in your application a 750-word statement of your research project and a sample of your recent written work (ideally an essay or dissertation chapter from your BA work), to be sent directly to the Director of Graduate Studies. You will also be expected to provide references and transcripts. International students should pay particular attention to the university’s requirements in terms of English language proficiency, outlined at http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/admissions
The application process is explained on the Graduate School website: http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/process/. Applications are done on-line: http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/
In preparing your application and the description of your research project, or for any concerns, feel free to contact either the Director of Graduate Studies (David Lines; d.a.lines@warwick.ac.uk) or the Head of Department (Jenny Burns; J.E.Burns@warwick.ac.uk). Visiting the department will give you an especially good sense of our research programmes, as well as provide opportunities for face-to-face discussions with postgraduates and staff.
Fees and funding
Annual fees for the MA by Research are currently £3240 for home and EU students (£9700 for overseas students). One source of funding is the the Research Preparation Master’s Scheme, sponsored by the UK’s Arts and Humanities Research Council but administered by individual universities. Applicants must be UK residents or EU citizens; a full grant covers fees and provides a stipend for living expenses.
