University of Leicester

What you'll study

The MRes in History centres on sustained, independent research supported by taught modules that develop methodological and professional skills. You will complete a substantial research dissertation under one-to-one supervision, supported by courses in research methods, historiography and source analysis. Core teaching typically includes seminars on advanced historiographical debates, workshops on archival practice and digital research techniques, and training in quantitative and qualitative approaches as relevant to your topic.

Students can expect to work on a wide range of chronological and thematic areas reflecting the department's strengths, such as medieval and early modern history, modern British and European history, imperial and global history, social and cultural history, and public and community history. Optional sessions and specialist seminars allow you to tailor methodological training—for example, oral history, palaeography, historical GIS, and material culture studies—to your project.

The programme combines regular supervision meetings, research training sessions, reading-led seminars and opportunities to present work in progress. You will also be encouraged to make use of the university's special collections and local archives and to take part in departmental research events and public engagement activities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree in history or a closely related subject. A 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) is the standard expectation, although applicants with a strong 2:2 plus relevant postgraduate experience or evidence of research potential may be considered. You should demonstrate prior training in historical methods and source-work, or show how your experience provides comparable preparation for a research degree.

Typical application materials include a personal statement outlining your research interests, a research proposal, academic transcripts, and references from academic referees. International applicants will need to meet the university's English language requirements or show equivalent evidence of competence.

Career prospects

The MRes provides advanced research training valued by employers across the public, cultural and private sectors. Many graduates progress to doctoral study and academic careers; others move into careers where analytical rigour, project management and communication skills are prized.

• Doctoral research and academic teaching
• Museum, archive and heritage work, including curatorial and collections care roles
• Public history, community engagement and cultural policy
• Research posts in think-tanks, charities and public sector organisations
• Publishing, journalism and content roles that require strong research and writing skills
• Education, local government and consultancy that value evidence-based analysis

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester has a longstanding history programme with active research clusters and a supportive supervisory culture. You will benefit from access to the university's special collections and local record offices, taught research skills modules, and a programme of seminars, reading groups and public events that connect postgraduate students with staff and visiting scholars.

Leicester's emphasis on interdisciplinarity and public engagement means MRes students can develop professional as well as academic competencies, through placements, collaborative projects and training in digital and archival methods. The department's research environment is designed to prepare you for further study or research-intensive careers by combining rigorous methodological training with sustained independent work on a substantial dissertation.