BIRKBECK COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON · UNITED KINGDOM
Global History: Empires, States and Cultures
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Top 8 in UK for History Research (REF 2021)Research Excellence
- Unique research scope across geographical and chronological boundariesComprehensive Study
- Eligible for Eric Hobsbawm ScholarshipsScholarship Opportunity
- Access to unparalleled resources like the British Museum and British LibraryCentral London Location
The MA Global History: Empires, States and Cultures program at Birkbeck, University of London, offers an in-depth exploration of world history, focusing on the intricate interconnections across geographical and national boundaries. This program is designed for students seeking to deepen their understanding of global interactions throughout history, examining both theoretical and empirical approaches. You will engage with fascinating themes such as empires and imperialism, nations and nationalisms, decolonisation, migrations and diasporas, environmental history, and the transnational history of ideas. The course is taught by leading experts in African, Asian, Atlantic, European, and Middle Eastern histories, societies, and cultures. It is available for full-time or part-time study and primarily follows an evening timetable, accommodating those who work or have other commitments. International students requiring a Student visa must apply for the on-campus study option.
Curriculum
The program includes a compulsory module that delves into specific topics in global history, critically assessing the advantages and challenges of this field. Following this, you will select from a variety of option modules, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests within history, classics, and archaeology. The culmination of the program is a dissertation based on original research.
- Year 1 (Full-time)
- Compulsory Global History Module
- Optional Modules in History, Classics, and Archaeology
- Dissertation
- Year 1 (Part-time)
- Compulsory Global History Module
- Optional Modules in History, Classics, and Archaeology (part 1)
- Year 2 (Part-time)
- Optional Modules in History, Classics, and Archaeology (part 2)
- Dissertation
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MA Global History program?
- You need a 2:2 honours degree or above. If English is not your first language, an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall (with 6.0 in each sub-test) or an accepted equivalent is required. International students needing a Student visa must apply for the on-campus option.
- How much does the MA Global History program cost?
- Tuition fees vary based on your fee status (Home or Overseas) and study mode (full-time or part-time). Specific amounts are not provided here, but detailed information and payment plans are available on the university's international finance pages.
- What is the duration of the MA Global History program?
- The program can be studied full-time over one year or part-time over two years. Classes primarily follow an evening timetable.
- Are there any scholarships available for this program?
- Yes, MA students are eligible to apply for the merit-based Eric Hobsbawm Scholarships, subject to availability. These scholarships are named after an influential historian who taught at Birkbeck.
- How can I apply for the MA Global History program?
- You should apply online through the university's application portal. Prepare your academic qualifications, references, and personal statement. You can apply before completing your current qualifications.
- What are the career prospects after completing this MA?
- This MA provides preparation for academic and non-academic careers. You will gain training in research methods, source analysis, and develop specialized research interests, with highly transferable skills for various professional fields.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA second-class honours degree (2:2) or above in a relevant discipline. Professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be considered positively. Mature learners are encouraged to apply.
IELTS Academic Test6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in each sub-test
Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English176 with 169 in each sub-test
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English176 with 169 in each sub-test
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)62 with 60 in each sub-test
LanguageCert Academic (in-person and online)70 overall with minimum 65 in sub-tests
TOEFL: IBT (new grading system from January 2026)Total Score: 4.5 (reading: 4, listening 4, speaking 4, writing 4.5)
PSI: Skills for EnglishB2 Pass with Merit
AS or A-Level in English Language or LiteratureGrade C
GCSE in English Language or LiteratureGrade C
IGCSE - English First Language (Syllabus 0500 or 0522 or 0990)Grade C or 5 (with minimum grade 2 in Listening and Speaking)
IGCSE - English Second Language (Syllabus 0511 or 0991, or 0510 or 0993)Grade B or 5 (with minimum grade 2 in Listening and Speaking for Syllabus 0510 or 0993)
International Baccalaureate English A: Literature OR Literature and Language OR Literature and PerformanceGrade 5 (Standard Level) or Grade 4 (Higher Level)
International Baccalaureate English BGrade 6 (Standard Level) or Grade 5 (Higher Level)
If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, you must meet the English language requirements. Pre-sessional English courses and foundation programmes are available if you do not meet the minimum IELTS requirement. If you require a Student visa, you must apply for the on-campus study option only.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information on international tuition fees is available on the university's finance pages. Birkbeck offers flexible payment plans for tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Information on home tuition fees is available on the university's finance pages. Birkbeck offers flexible payment plans for tuition fees.
LivingEstimated living costs are provided by the university to help students plan their finances. Details are available on the international student finance pages.
Tuition fees depend on your fee status ('Home' or 'Overseas') and whether you study full-time or part-time. Specific amounts for this program were not provided in the source text, but general information about fees and payment plans is available on the university's international finance pages. Students should refer to the university website for the most current fee information for their specific intake and study mode.
How to apply
1. Find Your CourseIdentify the specific program (MA Global History: Empires, States and Cultures) and your preferred study mode (full-time/part-time, on-campus/flexible/online, and start date – October or January).
2. Prepare Your ApplicationGather all necessary documentation, including academic qualifications, references, and your personal statement. You do not need to have completed your current qualification to start your application. List all relevant qualifications and experience, including those you expect to achieve.
3. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic requirements (2:2 honours degree or above) and English language proficiency. If English is not your first language, you'll need an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall (with 6.0 in each sub-test) or an accepted equivalent.
4. Submit Your ApplicationApply online through the university's application portal. For international students requiring a Student visa, only the on-campus study option is available.
5. Await Decision and OfferApplications are reviewed on their individual merits. The university will consider your academic background, professional qualifications, and relevant work experience. Earlier applications are considered sooner.
6. Accept Your OfferIf successful, you will receive an offer. Follow the instructions to formally accept your place at Birkbeck.
7. Prepare for EnrolmentOnce your offer is accepted, you will receive further guidance on enrolment procedures, visa applications (if applicable), and preparing for your studies.
Scholarships
Eric Hobsbawm ScholarshipsNot specified
Accreditation
University of London
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MA Global History program?
+
You need a 2:2 honours degree or above. If English is not your first language, an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall (with 6.0 in each sub-test) or an accepted equivalent is required. International students needing a Student visa must apply for the on-campus option.
How much does the MA Global History program cost?
+
Tuition fees vary based on your fee status (Home or Overseas) and study mode (full-time or part-time). Specific amounts are not provided here, but detailed information and payment plans are available on the university's international finance pages.
What is the duration of the MA Global History program?
+
The program can be studied full-time over one year or part-time over two years. Classes primarily follow an evening timetable.
Are there any scholarships available for this program?
+
Yes, MA students are eligible to apply for the merit-based Eric Hobsbawm Scholarships, subject to availability. These scholarships are named after an influential historian who taught at Birkbeck.
How can I apply for the MA Global History program?
+
You should apply online through the university's application portal. Prepare your academic qualifications, references, and personal statement. You can apply before completing your current qualifications.
What are the career prospects after completing this MA?
+
This MA provides preparation for academic and non-academic careers. You will gain training in research methods, source analysis, and develop specialized research interests, with highly transferable skills for various professional fields.