MA European History

The MA European History program at Birkbeck University of London is a rigorous and stimulating course that explores the complexities of European history from the Renaissance to the present day. Students will gain a deep understanding of the political, social, and cultural developments that have shaped Europe over the centuries, as well as the interconnections between different European countries and cultures. The program is designed to provide students with a range of skills, including critical thinking, historical analysis, and research methods, which will prepare them for careers in academia, museums, archives, and other heritage institutions.

Additional Information

The program consists of 180 credits, divided into three stages: the first stage comprises two core modules and one optional module; the second stage includes a dissertation or project, and the third stage features two further optional modules. Students will have access to a range of resources, including the Birkbeck Library's extensive collection of historical texts, as well as the university's vibrant research culture.

Experience the Best of European History at Birkbeck University of London

Birkbeck University of London is an ideal choice for students interested in European history due to its world-class teaching and research facilities. The university has a long tradition of excellence in history, with a strong focus on interdisciplinary approaches to the subject. Birkbeck's location in central London provides easy access to a wide range of cultural institutions, such as museums, galleries, and archives, which are an invaluable resource for historical research.

Our MA European History offers you the chance to study at a department with world-renowned expertise in European history, including British, German, French, Italian, Balkan, Russian, and Eastern European history, as well as international, transnational, global, and comparative historical perspectives.

The course brings together these different fields and develops new approaches to the history of Europe from the Early Modern period to the present day. It provides you with an appreciation of key debates that have shaped our understanding of Europe and the most important historical and methodological approaches to critically interpreting the European past. Rather than presuppose one all-encompassing definition of 'Europe', whether geographical, ideological or otherwise, the course highlights the different contexts within which the European past and present can be analyzed.

Graduates can pursue career paths in education, the Civil Service, research and journalism, archiving, and libraries. Possible professions include:

teacher

Civil Service fast-streamer

researcher

journalist

archivist

museum education officer

museum curator

editorial assistant

politician’s assistant.

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.

A second-class honors degree (2:2 or above).

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.