MA LOCAL HISTORY P/T

Program Overview

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The Master of Arts in Local History at Maynooth University is a part-time, two-year program that equips students with the skills and knowledge to research their chosen place or region. Using an interdisciplinary approach, the program covers historiography, research methods, and the analysis and interpretation of historical sources. Students complete a minor thesis under expert supervision, applying their research skills to a specific topic of their choosing. The program prepares graduates for careers in local history, heritage management, research, and various other fields.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Master of Arts in Local History

The MA in Local History at Maynooth University is a part-time, two-year (90 credits) program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to research their chosen place or region.

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Objectives:

• Develop a deep understanding of the nature and practice of local history research.
• Acquire the skills to identify, analyze, and interpret historical sources.
• Compile evidence and structure a research thesis on a local history topic.
• Explore the complex relationship between the past and present in local communities.

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Program Description:

The program consists of two main components: taught modules and a minor thesis. In the first year, students complete core modules focusing on historiography, research methods, bibliography, referencing, and presentation skills. They also choose optional modules covering specific aspects of Irish history, including heritage, landscape, architecture, and war. The second year is dedicated to thesis preparation and completion under the supervision of an expert supervisor. The thesis allows students to apply their research skills to a specific topic of their choosing, deepening their understanding of a particular place or community.

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Other:

• The program emphasizes the importance of ethical research practices and community engagement.
• Students have access to specialized research resources and historical archives through the university library.
• The program aims to equip graduates with valuable skills and knowledge for careers in various fields, including history, archaeology, heritage, education, journalism, and public administration.

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Outline:

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Year 1

(50 credits):

• Core Modules (30 credits):
• Introduction to Local History Research
• Historiography and Theory
• Historical Sources: Identification, Analysis, and Interpretation
• Research Methods and Skills
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• Optional Modules (20 credits) - students choose two:
• The Archaeology and History of Medieval Ireland
• Irish Urban History
• The Irish Countryside: Settlement and Culture
• Heritage, Conservation, and Cultural Tourism
• War and Revolution in Ireland
• The Irish Landscape: Historical Perspectives
• Landed Estates and Designed Landscapes in Ireland
• Irish Domestic Architecture

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Year 2

(40 credits):

• Dissertation Preparation (10 credits)
• Minor Thesis Completion (30 credits)

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Assessment:

• Continuous assessment in the form of essays, presentations, and assignments in taught modules.
• Final assessment of the minor thesis by two examiners.
• Evaluation criteria include historical accuracy, research methodology, analysis, writing style, and originality.

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Teaching:

• Lecturers and tutors are experts in their respective fields and have extensive experience in local history research.
• Small class sizes facilitate personalized attention and interaction.
• The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual supervision.
• Students have access to online learning resources and a dedicated online learning platform.

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Careers:

• Careers in local history, heritage, and cultural tourism management.
• Research and academic positions.
• Opportunities in museums, archives, libraries, and historical societies.
• Roles in public administration, education, and community development.
• Positions in journalism, media, and communications.

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Other:

• The program prepares graduates for further postgraduate study in history and related fields.
• Students can participate in field trips and research opportunities in local communities.
• The program welcomes applications from individuals with a strong interest in local history and a desire to explore the past of their chosen place or region.