MA Contemporary History and Politics at Birkbeck, University of London

This MA Contemporary History and Politics combines a rich and varied study of the recent past and politics allowing you to explore how the two disciplines intersect and integrate. We cover a wide geographic range of content so you can choose to focus on Europe, Britain, China, Africa, South Asia or the Middle East.

Faculty: School of Historical Studies  |  Duration: One year full-time, on campus; One year full-time, online; One year full-time, flexible learning; Two years part-time, on campus; Two years part-time, online; Two years part-time, flexible learning  |  Study mode: full-time, part-time, online option  |  Intake: October 2027 | January 2028  |  Location: London, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

You will gain a thorough grounding in research methodologies, approaches and techniques for both disciplines and learn how to apply them critically and creatively to your own research and writing. You will also develop a sophisticated appreciation of the complex interplay between national, international, political, social and historical forces that have produced the contemporary world. Compulsory modules include Mastering Historical Research: Birkbeck Approaches, Research Skills for Historians.

Career pathways

Studying this course will prepare you for a career path in a range of fields and professions including: education, journalism and broadcasting, museums and curatorial roles, politics and the Civil Service.

Official programme page