Spanish PhD

Overview

Spanish is part of the Modern Languages research cluster, which provides a vibrant environment for both disciplinary and interdisciplinary scholarship. Recognised as a centre of excellence for research into the languages, literatures, histories, linguistics, visual cultures, and cultural identities of Europe and beyond, the cluster is founded on a dynamic and forward-looking research ethos. Registration is on a full-time or part-time basis, under the direction of a supervisory team appointed by the University. You will be expected to submit your thesis at the end of three years of full-time registration for PhD, or two years for MPhil (or part-time equivalent).

Research activity within Spanish covers a wide range of periods, themes and geographical locations, from the literature and culture of early modern Spain and colonial Latin America to post-colonial cinema, enlightenment and post-enlightenment history and literature, modern and contemporary Latin American studies and the visual arts. Our research is situated within an ideological framework which accommodates a balance of traditional and newer areas of investigation. The unit strongly supports an interdisciplinary research ethos and staff are actively involved in several cross- subject research groupings, reading and writing groups. The PhD programme promotes interdisciplinary and cross-regional collaboration in the training and supervision of graduate students.

Learning Outcomes

A research degree offers students an opportunity to pursue an original area of research. It allos them to foster their capacity for independent research and critical thought. Undertaking a research degree can enhance a student’s written and oral communication skills as well as their linguistic skills in Spanish/Portuguese and a PhD is almost always a formal requirement for an academic post.

A 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. While a Master’s degree (or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University) is not essential, it is desirable and applicants without this qualification will be considered on a case-by-case basis.