History

The MA in History provides you with the opportunity to explore society, politics and culture in Britain and Ireland during either the early modern (c.1500-1780) or modern (c.1750-1970) period. Using our world-class collection of online primary source materials together with collections of documents and artefacts in local and national repositories, you will produce an independent research project on a topic of your choice.

Modules

To gain the 180 credits you require for this qualification, you must study the modules in the order shown below and pass part 1 before progressing to part 2:



Compulsory modules Credits

• MA History part 1 (A883) 90

• MA History part 2 (A884) 90



Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued module A825 may be used in place of A883.



You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 60 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you. Due to the structure of this qualification 90 credits will be required.

You must hold an honours degree (or equivalent) to study our MA in History. Although your degree does not need to be in History or a closely related subject, you will need some knowledge of the subject to successfully complete this qualification as the MA in History assumes all students have the knowledge and skills usually acquired by pursuing the subject at undergraduate level.



An honours degree of at least 2.1 (or equivalent) will greatly increase your chances of successfully completing the MA in History.



Alternative entry

Applications from candidates who don't have an honours degree but do have knowledge and skills relevant to studying history at postgraduate level, demonstrable through a track record of prior study and/or work experience (paid or voluntary), will be considered. Applicants must include the following information when returning requested entry check documentary evidence.



Details of why you are interested in studying our MA in History, details of any skills and knowledge you have relevant to studying history at postgraduate level, and any further information that you feel might support your application (e.g. membership of historical societies, publications on historical themes).



A CV (2 pages max)



Evidence of prior study, if applicable (e.g. copies of certificate or transcript higher education, further education or professional qualifications).



Additional considerations

If your degree or background is not in history or a related subject, you can take this self-diagnostic test. If, after trying the test, you are not confident about starting this masters degree, we recommend that you complete the Preparatory work listed in the Entry requirements for MA History part 1 (A883).



It is expected that your spoken and written English will also be of an adequate standard for postgraduate study. If English is not your first language, we recommend that you will need a minimum score of 7 under the International English Language testing system (IELTS). Please see their website for more details.

180 credits

2 years part-time study



How long it takes

Most students study the MA in History part-time, completing 90 credits a year over two years. Typically, this means 20–25 study hours each week.



You must complete the MA in History within 10 years.

See Course Web Page link for next start date.

Career relevance

In addition to specific study of history, this degree will provide you with practical skills in the use of print and online primary source material, research analysis, methods and dissertation writing. The module also provides opportunities to develop and practice communication, collaboration and project management skills. An MA in History will be useful for a range of careers in which grappling with complex ideas and texts is important, including careers in teaching, journalism, the civil service and public administration, libraries, archives, museums, heritage, travel and tourism. It is also excellent preparation for doctoral studies in history.