Course Summary
The MA in History at the University of Galway?trains students in advanced historical research. Students will acquire key skills – identifying and locating historical sources, interpreting them in their wider context, and learning how to present their findings to others. While fulfilling their passion for engaging with the past, students acquire competencies essential to the modern workplace from?rigorous analysis to clear communication.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
A Second Class Honours BA degree or equivalent with a H2.1 or GPA of 3.3 in History is normally required. Different criteria may apply to mature applicants.
Selection will be based on applicants' academic record and academic references testifying to their academic ability and enthusiasm for history. An applicant’s active engagement with history outside of the academic context may also be taken into consideration
The same entry requirements and application procedure are in place for both the MA and PDip programme.
Application Details
Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.
An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).
Next start date September 2026
Fees
Fees: EU
€7,640 p.a. full-time; €3,855 p.a. part-time (including levy) 2024/25
Fees: Tuition
€7,500 p.a. full-time; €3,750 p.a. part-time 2024/25
Fees: Student levy
€140 p.a. full-time; €105 p.a. part-time 2024/25
Fees: Non EU
€18,500 p.a. (€18,640 including levy). 2024/25
Postgraduate Diploma Full-TIme: EU 7,140 p.a. (including levy) 2024/2025
Student levy €140—payable by all students and is not covered by SUSI.
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Career Progression
Many of our graduates build careers in areas such as:
Museums, heritage and archives?– bringing history to life for the public.
Education and research?– inspiring the next generation of learners, or continuing into a PhD.
Publishing, journalism and media?– using strong writing and research skills to tell stories that matter.
Public policy, government and NGOs?– applying historical insight to real-world decision-making and social change.
Business and professional sectors?– from law and consultancy to management, where analytical thinking and problem-solving are in high demand.
Wherever you want to go, this degree equips you with skills that are highly transferable and widely recognised. Whether you see your future in academia, the cultural sector, or beyond, an MA in History gives you the confidence and expertise to take the next step.
Duration
2 years, part-time