Course Overview

Our MA Contemporary History and Politics lays a strong emphasis on the critical analysis of the recent past, giving you specialist knowledge of particular regions and themes. You will study the complex interplay between national, international, and global political, social and historical forces that have produced the contemporary world, and develop the approaches, techniques, and skills of the professional historian. The introductory compulsory module explores the methodological, conceptual, and theoretical background necessary for historical study at the postgraduate level. It also considers specific topics and questions in contemporary history and politics. You will undertake training in research skills to prepare you for researching and writing a dissertation on the subject that most interests you. You can choose from an impressive range of option modules covering a wide sweep of political ideas and systems, historical periods, and geographical places. Topics include the post-war reconstruction of Europe, Islam and the politics of fundamentalism, American global supremacy and foreign policy, national and transnational structures for ensuring global order and justice, and the rise of China as a superpower, among others.

General Eligibility

A second-class honors degree (2:2) or equivalent.

Part Time Work Details

Language Requirement

• If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, the requirement for this course is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 7.0, with not less than 6.5 in each of the sub-tests and at least 7.0 in writing.