MA History

MA History is a flexible and forward-thinking programme for those driven to understand the world through its histories. You will shape your studies around three themes: Public History and Heritage, War and Conflict, and Marginalised Histories. Spanning ancient to contemporary periods and reaching across continents, the course offers you an expansive understanding of historical experience.

The course positions research skills at the heart of learning and assessment, using these you will evaluate a range of methodological and theoretical approaches to the study of the past. You will also experience highly practical training, informed by our partnerships with such organisations as Manchester City Council, the National Trust and others.

With a structure that balances academic depth and practical experience, this course is designed to give you the flexibility you need to achieve your career ambitions.

The course embeds the research expertise of staff across the department and is supported by the innovative work of the Manchester Centre for Public Histories and Heritage (MCPHH), which works with local heritage organisations to develop additional opportunities for students, organises public-facing events, and provides a network of contacts for placements and career development.

You will graduate with a robust portfolio of transferable skills, from advanced research and analytical abilities to professional experience and industry connections. This course will prepare you for a range of roles, whether you aim to build a career in public service, education, law, heritage, or business, or to pursue further study at doctoral level.