MA Early Modern and Renaissance Studies

The MA in Early Modern and Renaissance Studies at Birkbeck University of London offers a unique opportunity to explore the cultural, political, and artistic developments of Europe during the early modern period (1500-1700). This course combines historical research with critical analysis and theoretical frameworks to help students gain a deeper understanding of this transformative era. Students will learn how to evaluate sources, analyze complex texts, and construct meaningful arguments in an interdisciplinary environment. The program is ideal for those interested in pursuing careers in academia, museums, galleries, libraries, or cultural institutions.

Additional Information

The course covers a wide range of topics including the Reformation, the rise of capitalism, the development of modern science, and the emergence of new forms of artistic expression. Students will have access to a diverse array of primary sources, including manuscripts, prints, paintings, and sculptures, as well as cutting-edge digital resources. The program is taught by internationally recognized experts in the field and features a range of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and conferences.

Unlocking the Secrets of the Early Modern World: An Interdisciplinary Journey at Birkbeck University of London

Birkbeck University of London is renowned for its excellence in the humanities and social sciences. Our faculty is composed of leading scholars in the field, and our students have access to a vast array of resources, including rare book libraries, manuscript collections, and digital archives. Located in the heart of Bloomsbury, Birkbeck provides an intellectual environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. With its vibrant cultural scene, London offers endless opportunities for exploration and inspiration.

The MA in Early Modern and Renaissance Studies offers you the opportunity to explore this era from a range of disciplinary perspectives, including the study of:

literature

history

material culture

the visual arts.

This postgraduate degree pairs the broader study of current scholarly approaches to these periods with a more focused study of Early Modern and Renaissance cultures. It considers the riches of these pasts from an integrated, holistic perspective in which you will be guided by experts in interdisciplinary research methods.

You will be able to follow your interests with optional modules that give you the chance to dive deeper into ongoing discussions, whether focused on the Medieval, Early Modern, or Renaissance periods, or exploring interdisciplinary themes that link across this dynamic time period.

Birkbeck’s MA Early Modern and Renaissance Studies graduates also successfully complete the degree with a set of valuable, transferable attributes, including:

high-level oral and written communication skills

postgraduate research skills

postgraduate skills in evaluating and assessing information

the ability to present an argument at the postgraduate level.

We offer a comprehensive Careers Service - Birkbeck Futures - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education, and future ambitions.

Our standard postgraduate entry requirement is a second-class honors degree (2:2 or above) from a UK university or an equivalent international qualification

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.