Research course

History MRes

Institution
University of Chester · Department of History and Archaeology
Qualifications
MRes

Entry requirements

A 2:1 honours degree in history or any relevant discipline, or suitable equivalent qualification, is required. Consideration will be given to those who hold a lower classification who can demonstrate they are capable of performing at the level required to complete the course successfully.
Applicants will be required to produce up to 300 words describing their research topic, and attend an interview.
To complete your application you will need to submit a project proposal. You can find more information about the required format and best practices on our Applying for MPhil/PhD or Mres degrees page.

Months of entry

October

Course content

Deepen your understanding of the past, shape your future

The History MRes at the University of Chester offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in advanced historical enquiry. This course is designed to help you develop the specialist knowledge, research skills, and critical insight required to make a meaningful contribution to academia, policy, heritage, and the cultural sectors.

Whether you hold an undergraduate degree in history or a related discipline, this MRes provides an intellectually stimulating and rewarding path to advance your academic and professional ambitions. You’ll engage with key debates, develop a sophisticated understanding of historical theory and methodology, and undertake a substantial independent research project focused on a topic that reflects your personal interests and career goals.

Join a dynamic research community

You’ll study at the Exton Park campus, just a short walk from Chester’s historic city centre. The city itself is deeply steeped in Roman and medieval heritage, enabling you to study in a location where history is right on your doorstep. Here, you’ll benefit from excellent facilities and resources, including specialist library collections, extensive access to archives, and dedicated postgraduate study spaces. These facilities are designed to support independent projects, whilst also fostering collaboration.

As part of the thriving research culture within the Department of History and Archaeology, you’ll have opportunities to enrich your academic experience and connect with fellow researchers and professionals. Our close links with local archives and heritage organisations also provide access to sources and practical insights that will strengthen your research.

Explore your interests with expert supervision

Supervision is offered across a range of historical periods and themes, drawing on the expertise of academic staff who are actively engaged in research. Areas of strength include 20th-century German history, the World Wars, the British Empire, the Vietnam War, religious history, and histories of conflict and empire. This breadth of expertise allows you to pursue a topic that truly inspires you, supported every step of the way with tailored academic guidance.

Throughout the course, you’ll work closely with your dissertation supervisor to refine your research focus and guide you in developing the advanced skills required for successful, independent postgraduate-level research.

Step confidently into your next chapter

The History MRes provides an excellent preparation for PhD study. However, the transferable skills you’ll develop along the way, including critical analysis, project management, research methods, and communication, are also highly valued and sought after across finance, academic, teaching and the civil service sectors.

As a postgraduate student, you’ll also benefit from the University’s Careers and Employability service, who are ready to support your next steps by offering expert guidance in CV writing, professional applications and job interview techniques.

Make your next move

Start your postgraduate journey with us today. Visit our course page and Apply for a Postgraduate Course page to find out more and begin your application.

Information for international students

International | University of Chester

Fees and funding

UK students
Home students: £5,006 per year for a full-time course (2025/26)
International students
International students: £15,084 per year for a full-time course (2025/26)

Postgraduate Funding | University of Chester

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MRes
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
FAHSS Student Recruitment Team
Email
ahsstudentrecruitment@chester.ac.uk