History - Ma

at Keele University

Core Modules

HIS-40002 Approaches to Historical Research (30 credits, Semester 1)
This module introduces different approaches to the research and writing of history. It aims to broaden your understanding of debates on the status of historical knowledge and provide conceptual and other tools for your own research work. You will consider two broad questions to help you plan and prepare your dissertation: What methodological approach may best suit my project? What, if any, theories may suit my project? Throughout, you’ll be encouraged to reflect on the relevance of the material under consideration to their own research topic, examining the sources and resources available to you.
 

HIS-40017 Research Skills in the Humanities (15 credits, Semester 1)
You will receive training in the practical and technical skills necessary for postgraduate research in the humanities, so you will be able to plan, then find and use the necessary resources for your research and writing. This includes: relevant University regulations; procedures for managing a research degree; the differences between popular press dissemination of research and academic forms; how to identify issues of research ethic affecting your work; and how to use real-world and digital archives and be creative in looking for primary research sources, such as film archives, digitised magazines and pamphlets, first editions of out of print literature. You will also develop essential personal and professional skills in time, stress and project management.
 

HIS-40016 Reflective Practice in the Humanities (15 credits, Semester 2)
Reflective practice describes a systematic approach to reflection that involves creating a habit, structure and routine around reflecting on our experiences and engaging in continuous learning. Whether you choose to learn from experience as an individual or with others, there are many benefits to be gained from sharing ideas, experiences and considering how you can change or improve your creative practice. Throughout this module, you will be asked to explore the intellectual connections between your research area and wider fields of study. We look at ‘big ideas’ relevant to contemporary society, such as the concept of ‘post truth’, ‘big data’ and the pulling down of statues, and we work to understand them from the perspective of our disciplines.
 

HIS-40028 Dissertation (60 credits, studied throughout the course)
Guided by extensive one-to-one supervision from a world leading expert in your field, you will research, plan and write a substantial piece of independent historical research. The module builds upon generic and subject-specific research skills acquired in accompanying modules to communicate the methods, results and conclusions on the research project. The final dissertation is 15,000 words, excluding footnotes, bibliography and annexes. Previous students have, for example, researched: 'Motown and Stax in the American Black Freedom Struggle, 1960-72'; 'Reformation to Repression: German Penal System, 1928-1945'; 'Agency and "Alternative" Relationships in the late 18th and early 19th Centuries'; and 'The Role of Empire in the British Union of Fascists'.

ACADEMIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

• This degree is designed for those individuals with a first or upper second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in History or other relevant subject). Applicants with other qualifications or experience are considered on a case-by-case basis by the Programme Director.
   

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ENTRY REQUIREMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS:

• IELTS 6.5. The University also accepts a range of internationally recognised English tests.

International - Full time £16,800 per year
 

Undertaking this MA and its accompanying original research will enable you to further develop your intellectual, personal and professional capabilities.
 

The broad range of skills and knowledge acquired include clear and analytical thinking, originality, problem-solving, persuasive writing and speaking, innovative questioning and effective reasoning. These are valuable within a wide range of careers, most notably teaching, professional research, museums or archives, public policy and project management.
 

You will be equipped to excel in any role which values critical thinking, communications skills, and the gathering, assessment and analysis of data and evidence, working across the public, voluntary or private sector, for example, in the civil service, for NGOs, think tanks or research institutes.
 

The programme also provides an excellent foundation for further research, doctoral (PhD) training and academia, with support available for CV-building and PhD applications.