Teaching primarily consists of evening lectures, seminars, problem based learning, individual supervision for essays and when elected, the dissertation. In addition, Saturday workshops on specific topics, sessions by guest lecturers, and study support sessions, are provided from time to time. In general, candidates should expect to attend evening classes for an average of 4-6 hours per week during University term time. Candidates will probably also spend a minimum of 9 hours per week in private study. The course is, therefore, quite demanding and prospective students should consider carefully their ability to manage a part-time study workload.
Every course counts equally towards the final assessment.
In the first year of academic study candidates must pass in each course, with assessment for courses being based on essays and a written examination. In the second year of study candidates are assessed entirely on the basis of coursework. The second year emphasizes the importance of developing areas of interest and independent research skills. Candidates who achieve a high overall level of performance may be awarded a distinction on graduation. Different admission requirements apply to those with and without an honours bachelor's degree.