2 compulsory modules in modern and contemporary cultures (40 credits) that are designed to develop a critical understanding of modernity; modernism; postmodernity; and contemporary culture; research skills; dissertation; plus 4 optional modules (40 credits) that enable them to undertake more sustained, specialised study of specific texts: Literary; film; popular culture; in terms linked to the concerns raised in the compulsory modules; options allow students to follow a general pathway or to specialise in either children’s literature; film studies; American literature; or postcolonialism and global culture.