Do you want to study nothing less than the most fascinating questions of human existence?
The Biographical Research and Writing specialisation allows you to explore the essence of a life and character, and how we come to be who we are.
Offered by the ANU National Centre of Biography, this specialisation will introduce you to a wide range of genres and approaches to biographical writing, and equip you with the skills to research, interpret and write your own original and innovative biographical studies.
Career opportunities
The Biographical Research and Writing specialisation will advance your career writing and publishing biography, in the editorial and publishing worlds, in cultural and visual arts, in the public history and heritage sector, in film, radio and television, in education, or in the library and archives sector. It can also lead to further study.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:- think critically about, discuss and apply the major theories and approaches to biography as an historical methodology;
- understand and assess the theoretical and interpretative issues of memory, representation, typicality, ethics and politics which surround biography;
- identify and appreciate a variety of research methods for producing biographical studies;
- develop skills in researching biography, including using and interpreting archival, visual and oral sources;
- understand issues involved in biographical research in and for different media, including digital environments ; and
- research, write and publish biography for a variety of relevant professional and academic purposes.
Relevant Degrees
Requirements
This specialisation requires the completion of 24 units, which must consist of:
12 units from completion of the following course(s):
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| HIST8011 | Biography and History | 6 |
| HIST8021 | Readings in History | 6 |
12 units from completion of the following course(s):
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ANIP6505 | Australian National Internships Program B | 12 |
| HIST8027 | Seminar in Advanced Historical Research | 12 |