The MA History programme at Queen's University Belfast offers an innovative curriculum designed to enhance your knowledge and skills in historical study. You will be taught by leading experts with research specialisms across a broad range of historical periods and geographical areas, including ancient, medieval, early modern, and contemporary history in Ireland, Britain, the USA, Europe, Africa, and Asia. The course also delves into public history, urban history, women's and gender history, religious history, political history, and extra-European history. Modules are structured to develop essential skills that employers value and to prepare students for doctoral research, covering areas like methods, sources, research dissertations, and public history internships. Queen's University Belfast is a world-leading centre for historical research, ranked among the top 200 globally for History. The School boasts a dynamic research environment, with 100% of its research environment considered 'world-leading' in the latest UK assessment. You will join a vibrant postgraduate community, engaging in graduate-led seminars, colloquia, and conferences, and collaborating closely with research centres such as the Centre for Public History and the Institute of Irish Studies. The university is also highly ranked for its international outlook and graduate prospects.
The MA History programme is designed to equip you with a range of transferable skills valuable in many professional fields. These include critical thinking, analytical abilities, research methodologies, effective written and oral communication, and the capacity to manage independent learning. These skills are highly sought after by employers across various sectors.
A strong 2.2 Honours degree or equivalent in an Arts and Humanities discipline is usually required. Applicants with a Social Sciences degree or a lower honours degree but relevant professional experience will be considered individually.
International tuition fees are not specified and prospective students should refer to the University's official fee pages for the most up-to-date information. Estimated living costs are also not provided.
The MA History programme can be studied full-time over one year or part-time over three years. Full-time students typically take three taught modules per semester, and part-time students usually complete one or two modules per semester.
The MA History programme equips you with transferable skills valuable in fields such as archivist, museum curator, researcher, policy analyst, journalist, teacher, and civil servant.
International applicants should apply online through the Queen's Portal. It is advisable to apply by 14th August 2026 for the late September intake. You will need to upload degree transcripts, degree certificates, English language test results (if applicable), a personal statement, and references.
A merit-based 'International Scholarship' is available. For specific eligibility and application details, please check the University's 'International Scholarships' page.