MLitt distinction: work attracting marks in this bracket will be distinguished in most or all of the following ways: originality of thought or interpretation; independence of judgement; wide-ranging reading, beyond that recommended and often in more than one language (where appropriate); intelligent engagement with primary sources; historiographical awareness; breadth, clarity and rigour of argument and structure; clarity and elegance of style; unusual and apt examples; outstanding work in this category should be of near-publishable quality.

MLitt Pass: work in this category will be distinguished in most of the
following ways: clarity, breadth and rigour of argument and structure; coverage of recommended reading and some use of additional titles; intelligent engagement with primary sources; historiographical awareness; well chosen examples

Postgraduate Diploma Pass: work in this category is not of sufficient merit to qualify for the degree of MLitt, but does meet the required standard for a Postgraduate Diploma; it will have some of the following features: strong evidence of knowledge and understanding, but limitations in clarity and rigour of argument and structure; incomplete coverage of recommended reading; restricted and unsophisticated use of primary sources; weaknesses of style; failure to address the title set.

Work with very serious deficiencies that fall below Postgraduate Diploma standard, failing to address the literature with the seriousness required and with an inadequate grasp of the subject matter and of historical analysis.