Garden History (MA / Postgraduate Diploma) - 2009/2010 entry

Aims

This programme will deepen your understanding of the study of garden history and further your awareness of the many factors that lie behind the creation and the perception of historic gardens. The subject of garden history is examined in itself and in relation to a wide spectrum of historical and cultural contexts.

The programme is intended to appeal equally to people who wish to pursue the subject for its own sake and individuals with a work-related interest. As well as an academic background, the programme provides a context to practical and professional work. Skills to be developed include communication, research, analysis and teamwork.

Content

A core course is followed by a choice of three option modules and a dissertation. Successfully completing all aspects leads to an MA award. For a Postgraduate Diploma, you can follow the programme as far as, but not including, the dissertation.

The core course covers: Approaches to Garden History; Methods and Historical Research; Historiography; Terminology and Style Labels; Philosophical Issues of Conservation.

Options include:

• Travel and the Eighteenth-Century Garden
• The Italian Renaissance Garden
• The French Garden
• London Parks and Gardens.

Dissertation of up to 15,000 words.

Teaching

Lectures, seminars and field visits. In all cases, garden history is related to social, historical and cultural developments, and its interdisciplinary character is emphasised.

Assessment

Core course and option modules assessed by coursework.

Dissertation (MA only).

When to apply

• Early application recommended, but later applications also considered.
• Interviews May–September.

Special features

Field visits and optional field weekends.

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