Entry requirements

You’ll need a 2:2 degree in history or a related subject.

Months of entry

September

Course content

About this Course

This is a flexible MA program designed to engage you with leading historical researchers and allow you to explore a variety of chronological and geographical fields, from the Ancient world to contemporary history, including the 'war on terror.'

The course encourages you to research, analyze, and debate the past to better understand the present. You will study history from across the globe, including Britain, continental Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia.

The curriculum encourages you to explore a wide range of perspectives on the past, such as:

• Ordinary life and varying identities.

• Issues of ethnicity, class, gender, age, and faith.

• The history of empires and rebellion.

You will learn to interrogate sources, debate interpretations, and communicate historical ideas to the public. We are ranked 10th in the UK for research quality (Complete University Guide 2026).

Key Features and Structure

• Flexibility and Breadth: You can choose to study history from a wide variety of geographical areas and time periods, allowing you to tailor the degree to your interests.

• Research Focus: The course encourages independent research through access to research seminars and a mandatory Dissertation module.

• Core Structure: The full-time course runs for 12 months.

o Taught Phase (9 months): You study core and optional modules, alongside dedicated research skills training. Optional modules include specialized Advanced Research Seminars in areas like Ancient, Medieval and Early Modern, Modern British, and American History.

o Dissertation Phase (3 months): You work independently over the summer to research and write your dissertation, with one-to-one supervision.

Career Prospects

The MA in History develops strong skills in critical thinking, research, analysis, and sophisticated communication, which are highly valued by employers.

Graduates are well-prepared for roles in:

• Research and Academia (e.g., progression to a PhD).

• Education (e.g., teaching).

• Heritage, Museums, and Archives.

• Policy and Government.

• Publishing and Journalism.

Further Information

• Duration: 1 year (Full-time) or 2 or more years (Part-time).

Information for international students

If English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate your English ability by meeting our Band C requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in all components. For information on other accepted English language tests, please see our website.

Fees and funding

A variety of scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations. Please check the website for more information - https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/funding/postgraduate.page

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

MA
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: Faculty of Arts and Humanities
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk

Phone: +44(0)23 8059 5000

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History