International History MA

University of Staffordshire

The course spans the late 18th and early 19th centuries up to the contemporary era. You will explore international relationships and rapid changes over time, from regional microhistories to sweeping diplomatic affairs, and from cultural developments to military encounters.It touches on core concepts like nationalism, imperialism, modernisation and globalisation, often through the prism of key case studies: the two unifications of Germany, the decline of Russia, the rise of China.We’ve designed the course so you have the freedom to delve into the topics that most interest you. Using research skills and primary sources, you will produce your own historical narratives, drawing on artefacts and documents from the relevant period.These skills will also help shape your dissertation, where you will answer a research question. Recent dissertation topics have looked at everything from socialist movements in early 20th century Europe to the Vietnam War and nationalism in Ukraine.There is also the opportunity to choose a specialist pathway, in Intelligence, Contemporary China or Russian Studies. If you opt for the pathway route, your award title will reflect this.After completing the MA International History, you’ll be equipped with the critical and reflective skills, as well as a range of other transferable skills, that are attractive to employers. These can be adapted to a range of professions including, but not limited to:Education, National, Foreign or Defence Ministries, Armed Forces, Security Services, International or Regional OrganisationsAlternatively, if you wish to develop your dissertation further, you will be ideally placed for further academic study at PhD level.