MRes History (on campus)

Program Overview

The MRes in History (on campus) at the University of Birmingham is a research-intensive master's program designed for students who wish to develop advanced historical research skills. This program provides a strong foundation for independent historical investigation, preparing students for doctoral study, academic careers, or research-focused roles in heritage, public history, and policy sectors. With access to world-class faculty and archival resources, students can pursue in-depth research on a broad range of historical themes, spanning different periods, regions, and methodologies. The program’s flexibility allows students to tailor their research focus to their specific interests, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to contribute original scholarship to the field of history.

Curriculum: The MRes in History is structured to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical research expertise. The curriculum includes core modules in historical research methods, historiography, and academic writing, equipping students with the necessary analytical and interpretative skills to conduct independent research. A significant portion of the program is dedicated to a dissertation, where students undertake an original research project under the supervision of leading historians. Optional modules allow students to explore specialized historical themes, such as political history, social history, cultural history, or transnational history, depending on their research interests. The combination of structured coursework and independent research ensures that students gain a comprehensive understanding of historical inquiry.

Research Focus: The MRes in History at the University of Birmingham is deeply rooted in the university’s world-class historical research environment. Students have access to specialist research centers, including the Centre for Reformation and Early Modern Studies, the Centre for Modern and Contemporary History, and the Centre for Byzantine, Ottoman and Modern Greek Studies. The program encourages students to engage with primary sources, archival materials, and interdisciplinary methodologies to develop innovative research projects. The university’s extensive library collections, digitized archives, and links with national and international historical institutions provide students with the resources necessary to conduct high-level historical research.

Industry Engagement: The program offers valuable industry engagement opportunities, preparing students for careers in heritage management, museum curation, publishing, policy analysis, and historical consultancy. The University of Birmingham collaborates with leading historical institutions, museums, and cultural organizations, including the National Archives, Birmingham Museums Trust, and the British Library. Students can benefit from guest lectures, workshops, and networking events with historians, curators, and archivists. Additionally, opportunities for internships and placements provide practical experience, helping students develop transferable skills in archival research, digital humanities, and public history.

Global Perspective: The MRes in History integrates a global perspective, encouraging students to explore transnational and comparative historical themes. With a diverse faculty specializing in European, Asian, African, and American histories, students have the opportunity to examine historical phenomena beyond national borders. The university’s international collaborations and research partnerships allow students to engage with scholars and institutions worldwide, broadening their historical understanding and research scope. Additionally, the program attracts students from across the globe, fostering an intellectually stimulating environment where cross-cultural perspectives enrich historical discussions.