Josh Cunliffe

MA Psychosocial Studies

'Birkbeck was ideal for me because the evening tuition offered meant that I could return to study without having to give up my existing career as a television editor. It has a reputation for high quality research and a really interesting programme of visiting academics. Its central location is also really convenient for me.

'The MA in Psychosocial Studies is an interdisciplinary degree which draws from different disciplines - sociology, philosophy, psychoanalysis - which fascinate me. I think that the combination of subject areas means that the degree has a breadth and relevance that would be impossible within a single traditional discipline. Psychoanalysis in particular is a subject which is important and has a lot to offer, yet is often neglected in academic circles.

'Having teaching staff from different academic disciplines makes for a varied intellectual culture. It's also a really friendly and supportive place, and the staff manage to challenge the students whilst appreciating that we come from varying academic and social backgrounds.

'My biggest achievement is understanding challenging texts. When I am reading Lacan, for instance, I find that he now makes a great deal of sense to me, and I can really see how my understanding has developed in the space of a year. It has also been great to engage with some visiting academics.

'I would advise prospective students to be aware that even though the teaching is in the evening, a full-time course still requires a heavy time commitment, and you will be encouraged to cover a great deal of ground in the course. Talk to the staff if you have any concerns as they understand that most students here have daytime jobs or other time commitments, and they will help you to make it work.

'I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on the MA Psychosocial Studies and aside from the academic rewards I have made some good new friends, and had a really sociable and stimulating year. I would recommend it to anyone.'