In the Department of Modern Languages and European Studies at the University of Reading, we offer a range of postgraduate masters courses taught by internationally renowned academics, enabling you to benefit from access to our cutting-edge research. Masters Degrees in Modern Languages offer a uniquely flexible opportunity for studying at postgraduate level. With core taught modules in research methods and critical theory the course then allows students to choose their own specialised areas in a range of areas directly linked to the research interests in a friendly and supportive environment for research students.
On Wednesday 18 February, we’re hosting an informational session for those interested in learning more about the MA and PhD programmes in Modern Languages at the University of Reading. Join Dr Daniela La Penna, Director of Post-Graduate Study in the Department of Modern Languages and European Studies, in Palmer 102 at 10am to learn more about the possibilities available and for tips about the application process.
We’ve also asked two of our recent MA recipients, Sophie Payne and Gill Hood, to share their reflections on the experience of pursuing a post-graduate degree in Modern Languages at Reading.
For Sophie Payne, the MRes in German Studies was a very natural step:
Sophie Payne with Dr Melani Schroeter on graduation day.
The most enjoyable parts of my BA were when I could create a research project of my own, so the MRes was a perfect match. Having spent time at Reading, I knew that the department is a very welcoming and supportive environment for young researchers, so it was an easy decision to stay on. I worked with my supervisor, Dr Melani Schroeter, to put together a programme that revolved around linguistics, a shared interest for both of us. I was able to take some modules in Reading’s Department of English Language and Applied Linguistics, which was indispensable for learning about the roots of research traditions and good project design.
The relationship with my supervisor, Melani, was a highlight for me, because she was enthusiastic and supportive throughout, guiding me where necessary but allowing me space to voice my opinion and develop my ideas.
I would not hesitate to recommend the postgraduate programmes offered by the Department of Modern Languages, because doing the MRes last year was one of the most challenging, rewarding and inspiring experiences of my life.
Gill Hood with Dr Daniela La Penna on graduation day
For Gill Hood, a retired teacher of English as a Second Language and French, an MRes in Italian Studies came after numerous experiences with distance learning through the Open University (Humanities), the Institute of Linguistics (French) and the London International Programme, where she completed an Italian BA. Still, post-graduate study brought new challenges:
Initially I found the regular face to face contact stressful, or maybe that was Chris Wagstaff’s interrogation techniques! I certainly appreciated Chris’s encyclopaedic knowledge of Neorealist and European cinema and thoroughly enjoyed the units. My second year with Daniela La Penna was much calmer. We examined the adaptation of books to films, mostly those of Luchino Visconti. I found the unit fascinating and was able to indulge myself by writing an essay on ‘La Terra Trema’, into which I poured my soul. My dissertation was also on adaptation – the Risorgimento films of Visconti.
I was very happy with the MA with Merit that I was awarded. I owe an enormous gratitude to Daniela for accepting me in the first place and for guiding me in the second year; to Chris for his attention to detail and determination that I should not get away with any sloppy sentiments – and to Charles Leavitt, from whom I learnt a great deal about how to write an MA essay. Thank you all. I shall miss you.
Old Whiteknights House, home of the Graduate School at the University of Reading
To learn more about pursuing a Masters Degree or a PhD in Modern Languages at the University of Reading, visit the Graduate School website as well as the Homepage of the Department of Modern Languages and European Studies. We offer both Post-Graduate Taught and Post-Graduate Research degree courses. To keep up with all of the Department’s research, as well as to receive updates from our students, staff, and alumni, follow this blog, like us on Facebook, and subscribe to our Twitter feed.
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