Modern History

Modern History at Durham University offers an in-depth exploration of the past from the early modern period to the present day, emphasizing critical analysis of historical sources and historiographical debates. The program is designed to develop students’ understanding of key historical events, themes, and processes that have shaped the modern world, equipping them with rigorous research skills, analytical abilities, and a nuanced perspective on historical change. Students will engage with a diverse range of topics, including political upheavals, social transformations, cultural developments, and international relations, benefiting from Durham’s rich academic environment and expert faculty. The curriculum integrates both broad theoretical frameworks and detailed case studies, fostering comprehensive insight into how historical narratives are constructed and interpreted. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to critically evaluate primary and secondary sources, participate in debates, and produce well-argued essays and research projects. The program also emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as critical thinking, effective communication, and independent research, which prepare graduates for careers in academia, education, journalism, public history, and beyond. Additionally, students have access to excellent resources, including extensive archives, libraries, and digital collections, ensuring a world-class learning experience. With opportunities for specialization in areas like modern political history, social movements, or cultural history, students can tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. The structure of the program includes both taught modules and independent research components, culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates the student’s ability to undertake original research and contribute to historical scholarship. Degree graduates leave equipped not only with a thorough understanding of recent history but also with the analytical and research skills necessary for diverse professional pathways. Durham University’s Modern History program provides an intellectually stimulating environment where students can develop a critical understanding of the past, engage with contemporary issues through historical lenses, and enhance their academic and professional prospects in a dynamic and supportive setting.

Content

Course Structure

The MA in Modern History is a one-year full-time programme (or two-years part-time). All students are allocated a supervisor at the beginning of the first term, and s/he guides each student through the year. The programme is structured as follows:

Michaelmas Term (October-December)

Archives and Sources (15 credits)

This module is designed to introduce you to advanced interpretation and analysis of primary sources, and has two elements. The first is based on archives, and will be led by specialist staff in the Library's Special Collections, as well as by members of the department. The second element is commentary on particular sources, chosen by you in consultation with your supervisor and the module convenors.

Issues in Modern History (30 credits)

This module introduces students to some of the major major problems, issues and debates in Modern History. It focuses on the period from the French Revolution to the present, and is taught comparatively, with particular stress on Britain, Europe and America, though students will be able to specialise on a particular area/approach in their assessed work. The range of topics studied will be chosen from a selection including: the state; nationalism and ethnicity; revolution; industrialization; gender; class; religion; democracy; war and environmentalism.

*Skill module (30 credits) - taken over Michaelmas and Epiphany Terms

Students may choose to take a skills module: these are mainly medieval/ancient languages (e.g. Old English, Old Norse, Latin, Greek), modern languages for reading (e.g. Academic French, Academic German), or research skills (e.g. palaeography). Students who take a skills module write a 60-credit dissertation instead of a 90-credit dissertation.

Epiphany Term (January-March)

Critical Practice (15 credits)

This module will develop and test your ability to offer a critical intellectual argument in an oral presentation, and your ability to participate effectively in critical discussions arising out of oral presentations. The training for this module involves lectures, seminars, one-to-one sessions with your supervisor, and a drama workshop. This module will encourage you to think critically about questions of structure and balance of content, timing and delivery in presentations through observing the work of others, and developing your own presentation.

Option module (30 credits)

Option modules allow students the opportunity to learn about a particular topic or issue in modern history in depth, and to consider different historical approaches to this topic over a full term's study. In previous years, options for modern history included: The Wealth of Nations; Race in Modern America; 'Tribe' and Nation in Africa since 1800; Interpretations of Terror and Genocide in Modern Europe; Tradition, Change and Political Culture in Modern Britain; Gender, Nationalism and Modernity in East Asia; History, Knowledge and Visual Culture (a full list of MA option modules is available here). Option modules are taught in weekly two-hour seminars for a full term's study.

Easter Term (April-June), and the summer vacation (until early September)

Dissertation (90 credits, or 60 credits if taking a *Skill module)

Students meet with their supervisors on an individual basis and will discuss the topic, direction and content of their dissertation, as well as the relevant modern evidence and scholarship which they should explore. The dissertation is a substantial, independent piece of research: the 90-credit dissertation is 20,000 words, while the 60-credit dissertation is 15,000 words. You are not required to write your dissertation on a topic which is in the same period and area as your optional modules, but it is recommended that students discuss their individual programmes of work with their supervisors and/or with the Director of Taught Postgraduate Programmes.

The formal requirements and structure of the programme can be found here; a full list of optional modules is availablehere.

The MA can be taken part-time, over two years. In the first year the module combination consists of Archives and Sources, Critical Practice, Issues and in addition a Skills module OR Optional module. In the second year your work will consist of either a 90 credit, 20,000 word dissertation (if you took an Optional module in the first year) OR a 60 credit, 15,000 word dissertation, AND an Optional module (if you took a Skills module in the first year).

Additional courses can be taken on an audit-basis (not for credit), and can include language modules as well as optional modules. You will need to ask and receive the permission of the module leader before auditing a class. If the class is outside the department you will also need to inform the Director of Taught Postgraduates.

Subject requirements, level and grade

In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:

• A good 2.1 or GPA of 3.5, or equivalent. A first degree in History or a related subject is required.

Preferred Tests:

a. IELTS: 6.5 (no component under 6.0)

b. TOEFL iBT (internet based test): 92 (no component under 23)

c. Cambridge Proficiency (CPE): Grade C

d. Cambridge Advanced (CAE): Grade A

e. Cambridge IGCSE First Language English at Grade C or above [not normally acceptable for students who require a Tier 4 student visa]

f. Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language at Grade B or above [not normally acceptable for students who require a Tier 4 student visa]

g. GCSE English Language at grade C or above

h. Pearson Test of English (overall score 62 (with no score less than 56 in each component))

Alternative accepted tests when those listed in a.-h. above are unavailable to the applicant (if the applicant requires a Tier 4 visa to study, advice on the suitability of these alternatives must be sought from the Student Recruitment and Admissions Office):

i. Certificate of Attainment (Edexcel)

j. GCE A-levels (AQA, CIE, Edexcel, CCEA, OCR, WJEC) at grade C or above in an essay based, humanities or social science subject from the following list: History, Philosophy, Government and Politics, English Language, English Literature, Geography, Religious Studies, Economics, Business Studies, Law and Sociology. Modern or Classical Languages are not acceptable in meeting this requirement.

k. International Baccalaureate with a minimum of grade 5 in Standard Level English or a minimum of grade 5 if taken at Higher Level.

l. NEAB (JMB) Test in English (Overseas)

m. Singapore Integrated Programme (SIPCAL) at grade C or above in an essay based, humanities or social science subject from the following list: History, Philosophy, Government and Politics, English Language, English Literature, Geography, Religious Studies, Economics, Business Studies, Law and Sociology. Modern or Classical Languages are not acceptable in meeting this requirement.

n. Singapore Polytechnic Diploma and Advanced Diplomas at GPA 3.0 or above

o. WAEC and NECO Grade B3 or above from Nigeria and Ghana

The financing of the Modern History program at Durham University is primarily through tuition fees paid by students. For UK and EU students, the standard annual tuition fee for undergraduate courses is set by the university and may be subject to government regulation or updates each academic year. For international students, tuition fees tend to be higher and are determined by the university’s official fee schedule. Durham University offers various funding options to assist students financially. These include government-backed loans, bursaries, and scholarships aimed at both domestic and international students. UK students may be eligible for Student Loans supplied by the UK government, which cover tuition fees and provide maintenance loans for living costs. Additionally, Durham University offers several merit-based scholarships and bursaries for academically excellent students, as well as access incentives for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. International students can apply for external scholarships offered by governmental and private organizations, and some international scholarships are directly provided by the university. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek part-time work opportunities both within university premises and in the surrounding city of Durham to support their living expenses. The university’s financial support office provides guidance on funding options, application procedures, and deadlines. The cost of living in Durham is generally lower compared to larger cities, which helps mitigate financial burdens. Some students also receive funding through family contributions or sponsorship programs depending on their country of origin or personal circumstances. The university periodically reviews its fee policies and financial aid offerings to ensure affordability and accessibility for a diverse student body. For specific figures related to tuition fees, scholarships, and other financial aid options, students are advised to consult the official Durham University website or contact the university's admissions office directly. Overall, the financial aspects of studying Modern History at Durham are supported by a combination of government funding, university scholarships, external grants, and personal or family resources, making it an accessible program for students from various financial backgrounds.

The Modern History programme at Durham University offers students in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of historical developments from the late medieval period to contemporary times. This course emphasizes the analysis of primary sources and encourages the development of strong research skills, enabling students to interpret historical evidence effectively. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including political, social, cultural, and economic history, providing a comprehensive overview of modern historical events and trends. Students have the opportunity to specialise in specific regions or themes, such as European history, American history, or global history, allowing for a tailored academic experience aligned with their interests. The programme is designed to foster analytical thinking, argumentation, and scholarly writing, preparing graduates for careers in academia, journalism, public history, policy analysis, and other fields requiring strong research and communication skills. Throughout the course, students engage in lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent study, benefiting from the expertise of leading academics in the field of modern history. Durham University’s storied tradition of research excellence and its vibrant academic community provide an enriching environment for historical inquiry. Additionally, the programme offers opportunities for field trips, guest lectures, and collaborative projects, enhancing practical understanding of historical contexts. Students are encouraged to develop a critical perspective on how history informs contemporary issues and to engage with debates on historical interpretation and historiography. The Modern History degree at Durham is suitable for those passionate about understanding the past and its influence on present-day society. Graduates leave the programme equipped with a broad set of skills, including critical analysis, effective communication, and independent research, making them well-prepared for various professional pathways or further academic study. The university’s strong links with cultural institutions, archives, and international partners also facilitate valuable networking and placements for students interested in careers beyond academia. Overall, Durham’s Modern History programme offers a rigorous, stimulating, and rewarding academic experience that aims to cultivate informed, reflective, and skilled individuals ready to contribute to society with a nuanced understanding of modern history.