Birkbeck, University of London campus

Arts & Humanities

MA Historical Research at Birkbeck, University of London

Birkbeck, University of London, United Kingdom

Programme overview

This MA Historical Research is our most flexible postgraduate history course, offering you the opportunity to develop a pathway through the course that best suits your needs and interests.

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

On our flagship Mastering Historical Research module, which includes lectures from leading specialists, you will examine the major themes and approaches used in historical research today. You will then tailor the course to suit your interests and ambitions choosing from option modules that cover different historical periods, geographic regions and historical specialisms. Compulsory modules include Mastering Historical Research: Birkbeck Approaches, Research Skills for Historians.

Career pathways

Studying this course will prepare you for further postgraduate research or study, or for roles in a range of fields and professions including any role that requires critical reading and evaluation of texts and sources. You may decide to pursue or further a career path working in: secondary or sixth form school teaching, the heritage sector, journalism, law.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A second-class honours degree (2:2 or above) and references. We offer a one-year Graduate Certificate in History, which can be used as a conversion course if you want to study history at postgraduate level, but have a degree in a significantly different discipline. English language: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component.

Domestic applicants: GBP 6,180 a year (2027/28). Part-time home students; One year full-time or two years part-time, on campus, starting in October 2027 Source

International applicants: GBP 10,890 a year (2027/28). Part-time international students; One year full-time or two years part-time, on campus, starting in October 2027 Source

Intake: October 2027 | January 2028

Duration: One year full-time, on campus; One year full-time, online; One year full-time, flexible learning; Tw

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