Description
This MA in History provides theoretical and practical training in major themes in local and regional history, research methods, project planning and writing. You'll explore aspects of British and Irish local and regional history between 1750 and 1950, and be introduced to the key themes of poverty and welfare, crime and policing, the role of families, urban history, religion and industrialisation. Using our world-class collection of online primary source materials, you'll be encouraged to produce an independent research project on a topic of your choice.
Please note that this qualification will be withdrawn on 31 December 2024.
Key features of the course
- Develops your ability to present a sustained argument in clear, logical prose
- Builds your skills of analysis, critical thinking and practical research
- Provides a firm foundation for further research studies
- Applicable to a wide range of careers.
Planning your studies
You must hold a UK honours degree (or equivalent), preferably with at least a 2:1 classification to study our MA in History. Although your degree does not need to be in History or a closely related subject, you will need some knowledge of the subject to successfully complete this qualification, as the MA in History assumes all candidates have the knowledge and skills usually acquired by pursuing the subject at undergraduate level.
If you’re in any doubt about the suitability of your qualifications or previous experience, please contact us before you enrol.
How long it takes
You will be able to complete this masters qualification within two and a half years by studying the first module in a year and a half and the second module in a year.
Career relevance and employability
In addition to specific study of history, this degree will provide you with practical skills in the use of print and online primary source material and experience of project planning, research methods and writing a dissertation. An MA in History can enhance your prospects if you work in (or plan to work in), teaching, libraries, archives, museums, heritage, travel and tourism. It is also excellent preparation for doctoral studies if you’re planning an academic career. History can also be valuable in a range of other careers, including journalism, writing, the civil service or public administration.
Careers and Employability Services have more information on how OU study can improve your employability.
Modules
To gain the 180 credits you require for this qualification, you must study the modules in the order shown below and pass part 1 before progressing to part 2:
| Compulsory modules |
Credits |
Next start |
- MA History part 1 (A825) (now discontinued)
|
120 |
|
- MA History part 2 (A826) (now discontinued)
|
60 |
|
Please note that MA History part 1 (A825) is worth 120 credits. Module fees for postgraduate modules are based on the number of credits you study. Therefore the fee for this 120-credit postgraduate module will be double that for the 60-credit module MA History part 2 (A826).
You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 60 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.
Learning outcomes
The learning outcomes of this qualification are described in four areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
Read more detailed information about the learning outcomes, and how they are acquired through teaching, learning and assessment methods.
Credit for previous study elsewhere
Credit transfer is not available for this qualification.
On completion
On successful completion of the required modules you can be awarded the Master of Arts in History, entitling you to use the letters MA (Hist) (Open) after your name. You will have the opportunity of being presented at a degree ceremony.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
How to register
If you want to study for this qualification, read the description and check you meet any specific requirements (for example, some of
our qualifications, require you to be working in a particular environment, or be sponsored by your employer). Then select the
module you wish to study first and ensure it is suitable for you before following the registration procedure for that module.
During the registration procedure you will be asked to declare which qualification you are studying towards.
See a full list of modules available for this qualification