International History MA

Staffordshire University

Many of today’s most pressing international challenges have their roots in key moments of history. Our MA in International History will help you understand the crucial links between past and present. 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.

On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: MA International History.

Teaching

As a distance learning student you’ll be expected to study independently. Support is available when you need it. You can contact your tutor by phone, email or in person.

Our teaching is supported through our Virtual Learning Environment called Blackboard. This means you can access a range of materials to support your studies wherever you are. This includes discussion forums where you can debate subjects with your tutors and fellow students.

Assessment

There are two types of assessments: practice (also called formative) or formal (also called summative).

Your formal assessments could include essays, virtual presentations or critical reviews.

Careers

After completing the International History MA, you’ll be equipped with transferable skills attractive to employers. These can be adapted to a range of professions including:

• Education
• National foreign or defence ministries
• Armed forces
• Security services
• International or regional organisations

Eager for more knowledge? Upon completion, you’ll be ideally placed for further academic study at PhD level.