MA History

Our MA History offers global pathways in western and non-western history right up to the present day.

From Africa through South Asia and the Middle East to Western Europe, the UK and the USA, you will discover a broad range of history, and tailor your master's degree to suit you. Our MA is ideal for any student planning to undertake doctoral research; to pursue or enhance a career in teaching and education, or engagement in media, public history, and the museum and archive sectors; or to follow their intellectual curiosity and develop their own research interests.

This course offers an opportunity to build a pathway, tailored to your personal interests, through a range of optional courses and individual research projects; including a unique pathway in public history delivered by staff actively engaged in the media and experts in material culture.

The University of Reading is ranked in the top 200 in the world for History (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023).

You will be joining a department with a vibrant research culture, where 100% of our research is of international standing (Research Excellence Framework 2021, combining 4*, 3* and 2* submissions – History). You will be working with research-active academics, and focusing on creating a research network to support your career. This includes digital humanities and incorporating social media training for researchers and academics. The programme is delivered via flexible modes of attendance which can adapt to suit changing circumstances.

Thanks to our cooperation with other departments and external organisations as well as with the Museum of English Rural Life and the Institute of Education, you can rely on a wide range of expertise and work in a truly interdisciplinary environment.