Historical Research Birkbeck, University of London

Overview

The MA in Historical Research at Birkbeck, University of London, is a distinguished programme that offers students the flexibility to shape their academic journey according to their interests and career aspirations. As one of the top eight universities in the UK for History research, as per the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, Birkbeck stands out for its unique approach to historical studies, integrating a diverse range of disciplines including history, archaeology, and classics. This interdisciplinary environment fosters a comprehensive understanding of historical contexts, enabling students to engage with a variety of perspectives and methodologies.

Why Historical Research at Birkbeck?

Birkbeck's MA in Historical Research is not only academically rigorous but also provides access to unparalleled resources and facilities. The university is strategically located in the heart of London, close to significant institutions such as the British Museum and the British Library. This proximity allows students to engage with extensive collections and archives that are vital for historical research. Furthermore, Birkbeck is home to several renowned research centres, including the Birkbeck Institute for the Study of Antisemitism and the Raphael Samuel History Centre, which regularly host seminars and events featuring leading scholars in the field.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the MA in Historical Research are as follows:

• Full-time international students: £20,850 per year
• Part-time international students: £10,425 per year
• Full-time home students: £12,000 per year
• Part-time home students: £6,000 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The programme comprises core and optional modules, allowing students to tailor their learning experience. Core modules include:

• Mastering Historical Research: Birkbeck Approaches
• Research Skills for Historians

Students can choose from a variety of option modules that cover diverse topics such as:

• Archives and Memory
• Capitalism: Ideas, Systems, Practices
• Public History and Heritage: Theories, Issues and Practice
• Gender and Everyday Life in 20th Century China
• The Politics of the Past: Heritage in a Changing World
• Decolonising History/Histories of Decolonisation

In addition to the coursework, students are required to complete a dissertation of 15,000-16,000 words, which allows them to engage deeply with a specific historical topic of their choice.

Careers with Historical Research

Graduates of the MA in Historical Research are well-equipped for various career paths. Alumni have found employment in prestigious organisations such as the British Museum, BBC, and Channel 4 News, as well as in secondary education. The skills acquired during the programme, including critical analysis, research design, and effective communication, are highly valued across numerous sectors, including heritage, journalism, and law.