University of Hull

What you'll study

The MA combines taught modules with an independently researched dissertation. Core provision typically covers historical research methods, advanced historiography and theory, and training in source analysis, including digital and archival approaches. You will then choose from specialist option modules reflecting staff research strengths and current themes in history, such as social and cultural history, imperial and global history, gender and sexuality, memory and commemoration, modern British political and social history, medieval and early modern studies, and maritime or labour history.

The programme culminates in a substantial dissertation based on primary and/or secondary sources under the guidance of a supervisor. Dissertation topics may be regional, national or transnational in scope and often draw on Hull’s local and maritime collections or the Wilberforce Institute for research on slavery, emancipation and human rights. Teaching formats include seminars, research workshops, archival sessions and one-to-one supervision.

Typical structure

• Taught modules on research methods and historiography
• Two or more specialist option modules chosen from the department’s offerings
• Independent dissertation (major research project)
• Opportunities for placements, public history projects or collaborative research depending on available partnerships

Entry requirements

Admission is normally offered to applicants with an undergraduate degree in history or a closely related discipline at a good Honours level (UK upper-second class or equivalent). Applicants with a lower-class degree but with relevant postgraduate study, professional experience or a strong academic profile may be considered.

International applicants should hold an equivalent qualification and demonstrate proficiency in English; typical expectations are an academic English qualification at postgraduate level (for example an IELTS or comparable test result) with scores meeting the University’s postgraduate standard. Applicants may be asked to submit a sample of written work and a research statement or proposal, and academic references are required.

Career prospects

Graduates use the MA as preparation for doctoral study or to move into careers where advanced research, analysis and communication skills are valued. Common destinations include roles in archives and libraries, museums and heritage organisations, education and outreach, public history and curation, publishing and journalism, policy and the civil service, and cultural resource management. The degree also provides transferable skills for project management, research consultancy and positions in organisations that require critical evaluation of complex information.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull’s Department of History offers research-active staff with strengths across modern and pre-modern fields and established research centres that broaden the programme’s scope, including work on slavery and emancipation. Students benefit from access to local collections and partnerships such as the Hull History Centre and the Wilberforce Institute, as well as the University’s library and special collections for primary-source research.

The department supports close supervision, a lively research seminar series and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Studying in Hull also offers a strong local context for social, maritime and labour history while providing good links to national archives and cultural institutions for students planning fieldwork or placements.