History (Holocaust and Genocide Studies) MA

Course description

This course is run by the internationally recognised Stanley Burton Centre for Holocaust and Genocide Studies (SBC), established thirty years ago as the first research centre of its kind at a British university. Based in the History department but avowedly interdisciplinary, the SBC is unique in its focus on the cultural history and memory of genocide, as well as its longstanding commitment to advancing research in Holocaust Studies and the history of mass violence. With the support of our core team of research-active specialist historians, you will study how genocide comes about in different chronological and geographical contexts, and how societies and individuals come to terms with violence. A strong comparative element will encourage students to reflect on similarities and differences between different genocides and how societies experienced them.

This course will allow you to expand and deepen your historical knowledge and develop advanced research skills. We have a very strong tradition of pioneering fresh approaches in History from the local to the global. With over thirty research historians working in various fields, we offer expert supervision and a wealth of options.

If you choose the Holocaust and Genocide Studies specialist pathway of our History MA, your degree certificate will read 'MA History (Holocaust and Genocide Studies)'. Alternatively you can opt for one of the other pathways or the standard History MA:

• History (Local History) MA
• History (Urban History) MA
• History MA

The MA degree will enhance your attractiveness to employers and equip you with the necessary training and experience to continue research at doctoral level. You will be encouraged to develop an independent approach to research and critical reflection.

Teaching and learning

You will be taught mainly through seminars which will typically involve five to ten students. Depending on the options taken, you may also take part in visits to local and national archives or trips to sites of historical relevance to the course. You will be encouraged to attend specialist workshops and research seminars run by the department.

Careers and employability

Our MA course will offer you a very strong competitive advantage and career choices and your future salary can be considerably enhanced by postgraduate qualifications.

A postgraduate degree in history provides you with a wide range of skills including:

• critical analysis of textual, visual, and material evidence
• statistical analysis and database design
• advanced written and oral presentation skills
• time management and independent working on a large-scale research project

As a postgraduate student in the department, you will also have the opportunity to plan meetings and conferences and get involved with the intellectual community of historians at Leicester.