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.
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.