Details
The programme is designed to provide you with a solid grounding in the major outlines of recent world history, along with a wide choice of specialised modules to suit your own interest. By combining breadth with depth, it provides a framework within which you will be able to develop both your empirical and conceptual knowledge of the recent past.
You will study two core modules which use some of the best recent historical writing to cover the period since 1914: Mass Society and Modernity, 1914–45, in the autumn term, and Globalisation since 1945, in the spring term. You will also take two ‘skills and methods’ modules, Historical Methods in the autumn and Dissertation Preparation in the spring. Alongside these, you will also take an optional module each term: you can either choose two separate one-term modules, or take a two-term Special Subject. These are chosen from a wide range of modules available both in and beyond the History department.
You will also complete a 15,000-word dissertation.
Why study this course
This programme will provide you with knowledge and understanding of European and world history in the 20th century. The programme will also equip you with the research skills to read and assess relevant primary sources, the ability to carry out independent research and to write up your research. By the end of the programme you will have acquired the skills and the knowledge to progress to a PhD.
Natalie Hill "Studying for the MA Contemporary History has been one of the most challenging and rewarding years of my life. The course is widespread and varied, and has pushed me to write some of my best work..."
Patrick Longdon "The MA far exceeded my expectations. The selection of modules meant that I could pursue an eclectic mix of disciplines and specialisms in the first two terms, which allowed me to decide upon a fruitful and fascinating dissertation topic for the final term. The body of work I put together over the year could not have prepared me better for my doctoral studies... I am proud to say that the MA in Contemporary History at the University of Birmingham was fundamental in allowing me to pursue my passion for history further"
Fees and funding
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2013/14 are as follows:
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Home / EU: full-time - £5,130
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Overseas: full-time - £13,200
Part-time programme fees are one half of the full-time programme fees.
Learn more about fees and funding
Scholarships and studentships
Scholarships to cover fees and/or maintenance costs may be available.
For further information, visit the College of Arts and Law scholarships page or email financialsupport@bham.ac.uk
International students can often gain funding through overseas research scholarships, Commonwealth scholarships or their home government.
Entry requirements
You will need an Honours degree in a relevant subject, such as History, Politics, Cultural Studies, normally of an upper second-class standard.
Learn more about entry requirements
International students
Academic requirements
We accept a range of qualifications, our country pages show you what qualifications we accept from your country.
English language requirements
You can satisfy our English language requirements in two ways:
How to apply
Learn more about applying
Apply for the MA full-time or part-time
When clicking on the Apply Now button you will be directed to an application specifically designed for the programme you wish to apply for where you will create an account with the University application system and submit your application and supporting documents online. Further information regarding how to apply online can be found on the How to apply pages
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