MA History by Research
This London-based MA offers guidance from our expert historians and a vast span of potential research subject areas.
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Course overview
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This London-based degree enables students to study a historical subject of their own choosing (under guidance), and culminates in the production of a substantial dissertation based on original research.
There is an enormously broad range of possible thesis subjects in History, and the University possesses a wide variety of experts who are able to supervise in topics ranging from antiquity to the early twenty-first century. Given sufficient evidence to illuminate it, almost any aspect of history may potentially form an appropriate focus of study. The MA History by Research is therefore intended to give students the opportunity to explore their historical interests in depth, even where these are in areas not necessarily covered in the University’s other MA programmes.
Course Highlights
- One-to-one supervisions with our team of expert historians.
- Wide and flexible range of potential research subjects.
- Access to over 100 seminars held by The University of Buckingham through the year.
Course breakdown
The academic year begins in October with classes on how to undertake archival research, how to plan and structure a dissertation successfully, and on the many online resources that are available to assist in historical research. Specialist classes are also offered on palaeography (the study of historic handwriting) to enable students to read contemporary manuscripts with speed and accuracy. Throughout, the student develops a close intellectual relationship with their supervisors, with whom one-to-one tutorials are regularly carried out.
Tutorials and classes will normally take place at The University of Buckingham’s London offices at 51 Gower Street, Bloomsbury, WC1E 6HJ, very close to the British Museum, the British Library, and the Institute of Historical Research.
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Teaching and assessment
We keep class sizes small so you won’t get lost in the crowd. You will be assigned a personal tutor to support you every step of the way, and our academic and student support teams will ensure you have the tools to success in your studies. We value the quality of your learning experience.
Teaching methods
Teaching on Buckingham’s MA in History is remarkably tailored to your needs. Students develop their research proposals collaboratively with their supervisors, with whom they meet regularly throughout the year. Tuition is therefore personalized and frequent, ensuring that students are able to develop their ideas to their full potential.
Some students know from the outset the precise subject on which they intend to work. For most, however, the definition of a research proposal is usually a gradual process, with the student starting with a general area of interest, and then focusing on a more closely defined topic as a result of further reading and consultation, usually with their supervisor. Most students do not arrive at the final title of their dissertation until towards the end of the first Term, before Christmas.
Every master’s student in School of Humanities is supported by two supervisors. There is a First (or Principal) Supervisor, who is the student’s regular guide during his or her research, and with whom the student meets regularly throughout the year. There is also a Second Supervisor, whom the student may consult on a more limited basis where a ‘second opinion’ on a particular draft chapter may be helpful. Full-time students see their supervisor for one-to-one supervisions no less than twice a term.
Assessment Methods
The MA History by Research is awarded solely on the basis of a 25,000 word dissertation, excluding notes and references. The relationship between the student and their supervisor is therefore crucial, and students will meet regularly with their supervisor for one-to-one discussions in which they plan, develop, and review the dissertation.
After your course
The research and writing of the dissertation will impart the skills necessary for the student to work as an independent researcher and writer. These skills are crucial for those wishing to undertake PhD-level study and are also valued by non-academic employers.
Students wishing to proceed to the PhD may start afresh with a new topic, or may apply at the end of their first year for ‘upgrading’ to PhD status. Where this is granted, the student’s year of MA-related research can be counted as the first year of the three years of full-time study required for the PhD.
Here are just some of the career opportunities and skills that can stem from studying on this course:
Career opportunities
- PhD-level research in History or related subjects: the MA is an essential first step in a research-focused or academic career.
- The heritage sector, including museums, libraries, archives: institutions devoted to the preservation of our past.
- Business: the analytical and communication skills conveyed by History degrees are highly sought after in the world of business, including by many FTSE 100 firms.
- Politics and public policy: many MPs, policy researchers, and others in public life were themselves History students and employ History students.
Career skills
- Independent research skills
- Advanced critical thinking
- Written communication skills
- Oral communication skills.
Careers and Employability Support
Our courses strive to effectively combine academic challenge with the transferable skills that will stand you in good stead for future employment. The Buckingham tutorial teaching model means that our students are well prepared as they embark on their careers and future study.
Find out more about our Careers and Employability Service.
Further study
Further your expertise in your field of study with our doctoral degrees.
“Upon completing my postgraduate degree, I have undoubtedly obtained the necessary independent and research skills to embark on my professional journey. The extensive knowledge I have acquired through this advanced degree sets me apart from other candidates, giving me a distinct advantage.”
Eleanor, Postgraduate student
Entry requirements
See our general University entry requirements for information on flexible entry, mature students and alternative qualifications.
UK Offers
The minimum entry level required for this course is as follows:
- a first or upper second-class honours degree from a recognised university or,
- a recognised professional qualification with relevant work experience.
In cases where candidates are applying on the basis of work experience, they will be asked to attend an interview as part of the application process; in some cases, they may also be asked to produce a short sample of written work.
International Offers
Find out about our requirements and see useful information for international applicants:
If you are uncertain whether you will be eligible to apply for this course, please contact our Admissions team.
Course fees
The fees for this course are:
| Start | Type | 1st Year | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Month Year Full-time (2 Years) | UK | £00,000 | £00,000 |
| INT | £00,000 | £00,000 | |
Month Year Full-time (2 Years) | UK | £00,000 | £00,000 |
| INT | £00,000 | £00,000 |
The University reserves the right to increase course fees annually in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI). If the University intends to increase your course fees it will notify you via email of this as soon as reasonably practicable.
Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.
Scholarships and bursaries
We have bursaries and scholarships available for both home and international students at undergraduate and postgraduate level, and these are awarded based on location, merit or financial need.
Funded scholarships and bursaries may be awarded across all schools of study, and represent a partial remission from tuition fees. Bursaries are means-tested and are intended for those who need a contribution towards their fees in order to study at Buckingham.
View all scholarships and bursaries.
How to apply
Apply direct
Apply online from this page as:
- You can apply until shortly before the course starts.
- There are no application fees.
You can apply directly through our website by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ button.