MA Historical Studies

This Historical Studies course examines the methodologies used to investigate the past and a range of subjects from the early medieval period to the twentieth century are available.

overlay
MA Historical Studies at University of Winchester

MA Historical Studies explores current methods of investigating the past and examines a range of subjects from the early medieval period to the twentieth century. The programme is designed for those with a general interest in past societies as well as those planning to undertake a research degree.

Fact File

Entry requirements: Normally a first or second-class Honours degree in a related subject or professional experience in the area of study

Full-time: 1 year
Part-time: 2 years

Programme Leader: Dr Chris Aldous
Telephone +44 (0)1962 827318
Email Chris.Aldous@winchester.ac.uk

If English is not your first language: IELTS 6.5 (including 6.5 in academic writing) or a TOEFL score of 575 (paper-based) or 232 (computer-based) or equivalent

Start dates: September

Application process: UKPASS (full-time applicants only) or Direct Entry Application Form (part-time applicants only)

Programme Content

Students explore a variety of methods of engaging with the past, and have the opportunity to study a wide range of different pasts – from the early medieval period to the late twentieth century. The programme emphasises the use of alternative and innovative methodologies in history – including the history of everyday life, medical history and modern religious histories. Students also undertake a thorough training in the resources, methods and theoretical approaches needed to undertake historical research at postgraduate level.

Students take three core modules, which explore historical methods and research skills, and three Special Studies chosen from several different options.

Modules

Core modules:
• New Histories
• Research Methodology
• Dissertation Presentation

Special Studies include:
• The History of Anglo-Saxon Wessex
• Religion and Society: The Secular Church of Late Medieval Wessex
• Gender and History 1500-2007
• Allegiance and Ideas in Southern England 1640-1680
• Art and Society in the Renaissance
• The ‘fifteen-year war’ and public memory in post-war Japan
• ‘The Good War’: The United States and World War II
• Soviet History Through Film

Learning and Teaching

Students attend lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, day schools and excursions. The teaching team is made up of highly respected and experienced researchers. Specialists from outside the University also deliver elements of the programme. 

Assessment

Assessment on the programme is largely by written assignments, usually a 4,000-word essay, and this applies to most modules.

Dissertation
The dissertation is a substantial piece of independent research with full tutorial support. Students are required to write 15,000 to 20,000 words on a subject of their choice covered by their study.

Careers

Graduates work in teaching, archives, libraries and museums and conservation. The programme also provides a firm foundation for undertaking a postgraduate research degree or further training.