History, MA by Research

Start dates: 1st October, 1st January, 1st April & 1st July. An MA by Research in History enables you to undertake a substantial research project, led by your own historical passions and interests. Your project will take one year full-time or two years part-time. It is suitable if you want to undertake a first research degree as an isolated culmination of taught studies, or if you are considering further research in form of a PhD. Supervised by an expert, you will submit a thesis of up to 40,000 words, demonstrating original research with a significant contribution to our knowledge and understanding of the past. This is followed by an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination, or viva). We specialise in medieval, early modern and modern history including British, European and Global History. The research of our staff and postgraduates is integral to the life of the department, making Swansea a dynamic and stimulating place to study. The Department of History organises a large number of seminars, conferences, and other research activities which you are able to attend to enhance your research project. A number of research groups also offer focus and community for staff and postgraduates: • The Richard Burton Centre for the Study of Wales • The Health, History and Culture Research Group (HHCRG) • The Conflict, Reconstruction and Memory Research Group (CRAM) • The Centre for Medieval and Early Modern Research (MEMO) • The Centre for research into Gender in Culture and Society (GENCAS) You will develop and hone research skills needed for high-level work in the field of history, while skills and training programmes available on campus provide further support. You will have the opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars, and at the Postgraduate conference.

If English is not your first language you will need an acceptable pass in an approved English Language qualification to make sure you get the full benefit from studying at Swansea. We consider a wide range of qualifications, including the Swansea University English Test, the British Council IELTS test (with a score of at least 6.5 and 6.5 in each component). A full list of acceptable English Language tests can be found here.

International students: £19,000 per year

UK students: £5,006 per year

UK/Home: £5,006 per year

International: £19,000 per year

Apr or Jul 2026

Rolling admissions – apply as early as possible

• Singleton Park Campus, United Kingdom