Our MA Contemporary History and Politics lays a strong emphasis on the critical analysis of the recent past, giving you specialist knowledge of particular regions and themes. You will study the complex interplay between national, international, and global political, social, and historical forces that have produced the contemporary world, and develop the approaches, techniques, and skills of the professional historian.
You can choose from an impressive range of option modules covering a wide sweep of political ideas and systems, historical periods, and geographical places. Topics include the post-war reconstruction of Europe, Islam and the politics of fundamentalism, American global supremacy and foreign policy, national and transnational structures for ensuring global order and justice, and the rise of China as a superpower, among others.
Graduates can pursue career paths in education, journalism, research, museums, and archiving. Possible professions include:
teacher
journalist
archivist
museum education officer
academic librarian
politician’s assistant
Civil Service administrator.
We offer a comprehensive Careers Service - Birkbeck Futures - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education, and future ambitions.