Details
The programme is broadly chronological and covers the history of the region from the 11th century to the end of the 20th. It does not aim for a complete century-by-century coverage but will allow you to gain a detailed knowledge of social, political, industrial, religious and cultural history.
You will study six core modules, three per year, each of which is assessed by a 4,000-word dissertation. You will also complete a 15,000 word dissertation on a topic of your choice, under the supervision of one of the members of the Centre, using the many archival resources available to the region.
To achieve the MA, you will need to complete all of these elements, totalling 180 credits; each module is worth 20 credits (120 in total) and the dissertation is worth 60 credits. However, if you wish to leave the course early, upon successful completion of 60 credits you will be awarded a Postgraduate Certificate, and for 120 credits you will receive a Postgraduate Diploma.
Why study this course
The Centre for West Midlands History
The Centre promotes research into the history of the West Midlands, the publication of books, articles and electronic media which explore the region's past and the sharing of knowledge between academics, independent scholars and heritage professionals. Members of staff in the Centre have expertise in archaeology, history of art, social science, the history of medicine, education and heritage as well as history.
Day schools for the public, seminars, conferences, the journal Midland History and opportunities to study for research degrees as well as the MA, provide historians and enthusiasts with the opportunity to develop their knowledge and exchange ideas on the history of the region. The Centre also works with other organisations to create research projects. There is an active Friends' organisation which provides a forum for communication for all of those with an interest in the history of the West Midlands. For more information please see www.birmingham.ac.uk/cwmh
Location and resources
Birmingham's central position within the region and its status as the largest city make it an ideal place to study and research the history of the West Midlands. The University library at Birmingham, Birmingham Central Library and the record offices and local studies libraries of the region all offer excellent resources for this programme, both in terms of books and articles on the history of the region and resources for the dissertation.
Modules
You will study six core modules:
People and Places in the West Midlands c. 1000-1500
This module studies aspects of West Midlands social, cultural and economic history during medieval times. Subjects include rural and urban settlements, castles and fortifications; the Black Death, social hierarchies and divisions, religion, standards of living, crime and the transition from feudalism to capitalism.
Reformation, Social Change and Civil War: The West Midlands in the 16th and 17th Centuries
This module will allow you to explore the Reformation of the sixteenth century and its impact on counties and towns. This will be followed by the study of the English Civil War and its significance. Aspects of the material culture of the region will also be considered.
Transforming the Region: Economy, Society and Politics in the West Midlands in the 18th and 19th Centuries
This module explores the history of the West Midlands in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries by focussing on the economic, political, social and cultural history of areas such as Birmingham, the Black Country, the Ironbridge Gorge, the Potteries and Wyre Forest. Social history themes include anti-slavery and the history of women and children.
Turmoil and Change: Economy, Society and Politics in the West Midlands in the 20th century
Some of the themes are: the changes that have taken place in the region's communities during the century; the regional economy, urban growth, housing, politics and women and education.
Sources and Research Techniques for the History of the West Midlands in the Medieval and Early Modern Periods and Sources and Research Techniques for the History of the West Midlands in the 18th, 19th and 20th Centuries
The aim of these two modules is to explore the range of archival, visual and printed sources available for local study and consider different approaches to historical study. They will also help in developing skills which are helpful for working on your dissertation. One of these modules is taught each year.
Fees and funding
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2013/14 are as follows:
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Home / EU: £2,565 part-time
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
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
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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