Public History, Oral History and Community Heritage (MA by Research)

Program Overview

The Public History, Oral History, and Community Heritage MA by Research is a one-year full-time or two-year part-time research degree. It allows students to conduct independent research in these fields. Students develop their research skills through training and practice-oriented projects. The degree prepares graduates for careers in research, teaching, or museum work, as well as in community organizations and government agencies.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Public History, Oral History and Community Heritage (MA by Research) is a one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) research degree with little or no formal taught component. It allows students to explore a research topic over a shorter time than a doctoral program.

Objectives:

• To provide students with the opportunity to conduct independent research in public history, oral history, or community heritage.
• To develop students' research skills through training courses and events.
• To prepare students for a career in research or teaching.

Assessment:

• Students are assessed through a short thesis of around 25,000 words.
• The thesis is examined by a panel of experts.
• Students may also submit practice-orientated projects, including portfolio submissions with written components.

Careers:

• The MA by Research can lead to a career in research, teaching, or museum work.
• Students may also use their skills to work in community organizations or government agencies.

Other:

• Students are expected to work to an approved program of work, which they will develop in conjunction with their supervisor within the first few months of starting their studies.
• Students will be appointed a main supervisor who will normally be part of a supervisory team, comprising up to three members to advise and support them on their project.
• Students will have the opportunity to combine reflection on research methodologies and historical theories with practical applications.
• There is potential for internships with local and regional community organizations and museums.
• The program has a lively research culture and works closely with Heritage Quay, the University's Heritage Lottery-funded award-winning archive, and the Holocaust Education and Learning Centre.
• Students can choose the focus of their study, which may align with one or more of the course's core themes.
• Students will need to complete a research proposal outlining their areas of interest, which will be submitted along with their research degree application form.
• The University will identify the appropriate academic staff in History to supervise and guide students through their research degree.

The tuition fee for UK postgraduate researchers will be £4,900 full-time and £2,450 part-time in 2024/25. Please note that tuition fees for subsequent years of study may rise in line with inflation (RPI-X).