Course Summary
The MA in History provides you with the opportunity to explore society, politics and culture in Britain and Ireland during either the early modern (c.1500-1800) or modern (c.1750-1970) period.
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
You must hold an honours degree (or equivalent) to study our MA in History. Although your degree does not need to be in History or a closely related subject, you will need some knowledge of the subject to successfully complete this qualification as the MA in History assumes all students have the knowledge and skills usually acquired by pursuing the subject at undergraduate level.
An honours degree of at least 2.1 (or equivalent) will greatly increase your chances of successfully completing the MA in History.
Alternative entry
Applications from candidates who don't have an honours degree but do have knowledge and skills relevant to studying history at postgraduate level, demonstrable through a track record of prior study and/or work experience (paid or voluntary), will be considered. Applicants must include the following information when returning requested entry check documentary evidence.
• Details of why you are interested in studying our MA in History, details of any skills and knowledge you have relevant to studying history at postgraduate level, and any further information that you feel might support your application (e.g. membership of historical societies, publications on historical themes).
• A CV (2 pages max)
• Evidence of prior study, if applicable (e.g. copies of certificate or transcript higher education, further education or professional qualifications).
Additional considerations
If your degree or background is not in history or a related subject, you can take this self-diagnostic test. If, after trying the test, you are not confident about starting this masters degree, we recommend that you complete the Preparatory work listed in the Entry requirements for MA History part 1 (A883).
It is expected that your spoken and written English will also be of an adequate standard for postgraduate study. If English is not your first language, we recommend that you will need a minimum score of 7 under the International English Language testing system (IELTS). Please see their website for more details.
Application Details
See Course Web Page link for next start date.
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
In addition to specific study of history, this degree will provide you with practical skills in the use of print and online primary source material, research analysis, methods and dissertation writing. The module also provides opportunities to develop and practice communication, collaboration and project management skills. An MA in History will be useful for a range of careers in which grappling with complex ideas and texts is important, including careers in teaching, journalism, the civil service and public administration, libraries, archives, museums, heritage, travel and tourism. It is also excellent preparation for doctoral studies in history.
Duration
How long it takes
Most students study the MA in History part-time, completing 90 credits a year over two years. Typically, this means 20–25 study hours each week.
You must complete the MA in History within 10 years.