History Degree Programs: Undergraduate and Postgraduate Pathways
Pursuing a degree in history offers a structured journey through the evolution of human society, power, and knowledge. From foundational undergraduate studies to advanced doctoral research, these programs are designed to equip students with critical analytical skills and a deep understanding of historical methodologies.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History
The Bachelor of Arts typically spans three years, though students have the option to include a placement year to gain professional experience. The curriculum is designed to move from broad conceptual foundations to specialized, independent research.
First Year: Foundations
The initial year focuses on establishing a baseline of academic rigor. Students complete three core modules centered on societal developments, knowledge, and historical concepts of power. To master the academic approach to evidence and methodologies—the systematic ways historians study the past—students take two historical modules. Additionally, students can choose between an elective module or an optional module dedicated to individual research into a specific historical period.
Second Year: Expansion
The second year broadens the student's perspective through two core modules covering the philosophy of history and public history (the practice of making history accessible to the general public). This is supplemented by four optional modules, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests.
Third Year: Specialization
The final year is characterized by depth and synthesis. Students engage in a year-long special subject module for an intensive study of a specific process or topic, alongside two comparative modules. The culmination of the degree is a dissertation of 8,000 words.
Graduate and Postgraduate Studies
For those seeking advanced expertise, the department offers a variety of postgraduate options ranging from taught Master's degrees to research-intensive doctorates.
Master's Degrees
Master's courses can be completed in one year full-time or two years part-time. Students can specialize in one of five key areas: Medieval History, Early Modern History, Modern History, Public History, or Historical Studies. These programs combine core and optional modules and require a substantial dissertation ranging from 14,000 to 16,000 words.
Doctoral and Research Degrees
The highest levels of academic achievement are represented by the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). The MPhil typically requires two years of full-time study or four years part-time. The PhD is a more extensive commitment, taking three to four years full-time or six years part-time.
Key Facts
- BA Duration: 3 years (optional placement year available).
- BA Final Project: 8,000-word dissertation.
- Master's Specializations: Medieval, Early Modern, Modern, Public History, and Historical Studies.
- Master's Final Project: 14,000–16,000 word dissertation.
- PhD Duration: 3–4 years full-time or 6 years part-time.
- MPhil Duration: 2 years full-time or 4 years part-time.
Program Comparison Summary
| Degree Level | Duration (Full-Time) | Key Requirements | Final Thesis Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts | 3 Years | Core & Optional Modules | 8,000 words |
| Master's | 1 Year | Specialized Modules | 14,000–16,000 words |
| MPhil | 2 Years | Advanced Research | Not Specified |
| PhD | 3–4 Years | Advanced Research | Not Specified |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete a BA in History?
A Bachelor of Arts typically takes three years, although students may extend this by taking a placement year.
What are the specialization options for a Master's degree?
Students can choose from Medieval History, Early Modern History, Modern History, Public History, or Historical Studies.
What is the difference in dissertation length between a BA and a Master's?
A BA dissertation is 8,000 words, while a Master's dissertation is significantly longer, ranging between 14,000 and 16,000 words.
Can postgraduate degrees be taken part-time?
Yes. Master's degrees can take two years part-time, MPhils take four years part-time, and PhDs take six years part-time.
What is studied in the first year of the BA program?
The first year covers three core modules on power, societal developments, and knowledge, two modules on evidence and methodologies, and either an elective or an individual research module.