History (Masters by Research)

MRes

Programme Leader: Dr Tim Grady

Campus Chester
Course MRes
Length 1 year full-time; 2-4 years part-time
Start date September 2012

The MRes in History offers an excellent opportunity to extend the range and depth of historical knowledge alongside proficiency in research and project management. It is ideal preparation for a PhD in History as well as a valuable qualification for those pursuing a wide range of careers.

The programme combines taught modules with a substantive research project. Students studying the MRes in History will have the opportunity to complete an extended history research dissertation of up to 28,000 words. The Department can offer supervision in a broad range of historical periods, subjects and topics which means we are normally able to marry students’ personal research interests with tutors’ own expertise. Our research specialisms range from the medieval through to the modern, from the Papacy in the eleventh and twelfth centuries to American-Soviet relations during the Cold War and encompass British, continental European and American History.

The MRes in History gives students who wish to study a particular aspect of the past in depth the opportunity to do so within the framework of a structured postgraduate programme. As a result, those studying on the programme will not only be able to complete a large scale research project built around their own interests but will also develop advanced historical research skills.

Next: Modules

Programme Structure

Research Methods and Skills in History

This module examines the skills and methodologies required for advanced historical research. Its overall aim and purpose is to prepare students for writing extended essays and dissertations. To this end, the first part of the module focuses on the structure and principles that underpin a good history dissertation. The second part examines how to use working bibliographies and to write a literature review. The third strand of the module delves into the practicalities of using major research libraries and institutions. Fourth, the module pays considerable attention to the values and limitations of different types of source material. Finally, at the end of the module, students will have an opportunity to present their project plans both orally and in written form.

Approaches to Historiography

This module introduces students to key debates and developments that have shaped, and, in many cases, continue to shape the writing of history. In this way, the module provides a broad framework for understanding the evolution of the historical discipline in modern times. Consideration will be given to various historiographical issues ranging from environmental and political history through to the use of gender and memory theories in the examination of the past. Weekly lectures will give a general overview of each debate, which will then be followed up by tutorials.

Research Dissertation

Each student researches and writes a 28,000-word dissertation on an aspect of history that relates to the Department’s specialisms. In researching their dissertations, students will spend time working in archives, libraries and other repositories to ensure that they have a sizeable primary source base to work from. Although the supervisor will offer considerable intellectual and practical guidance, the dissertation itself is based largely upon independent research.

Next: Assessment

Each taught module will be assessed by means of written coursework of approximately 4,000 words, comprised of essays, reports, reviews and oral presentations. The research dissertation will be 28,000 words in length.

Next: Careers

The MRes in History offers students an opportunity to develop skills suitable for a range of careers, ranging from teaching and journalism through to the heritage industry and beyond.

The programme also provides an excellent grounding in the historical discipline for those looking to undertake MPhil or PhD research in history.

Next: Entry requirements

An upper second class honours degree in any relevant discipline or an equivalent qualification is required. 

Credit exemption may be given for appropriate certificated or experiential learning undertaken or completed within the previous five years. Admission to the MRes Programme is by written application and interview.

Beginning: Overview

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