International Slavery Studies

Join a programme that places you at the forefront of investigations into the histories, legacies and commemorations of human enslavement and unfree labour. This MA combines historical perspectives with global insights into modern manifestations of slavery, forced labour and human trafficking. Exploring the history of unfree labour and examining modern slavery, this MA reflects a growing interest in the histories and afterlives of transatlantic slavery. The programme connects the local and the global. We’ll reflect, for example, on Liverpool’s role as the former ‘capital of the slave trade’ and review slave and unfree labour across different time periods and geographical locations. We’ll challenge you to analyse historical forms of slavery and critique modern responses to human trafficking. Evaluating the legacies of slavery in contemporary society, you’ll apply critical and literary theories to different representations of slavery. Links with resistance, protest and activism will also be considered. You’ll benefit from our unique relationship with the International Slavery Museum in Liverpool. Working with the Museum’s staff, you’ll study the commemoration and memorialisation of slavery. An optional project-based placement provides further opportunity to gain practical experience with a museum, archive or charity. Membership of the University’sCentre for the Study of International Slaverywill enable you to access a variety of seminars and conferences. You’ll meet international speakers at these events, attend talks and discuss cutting-edge research into historical and contemporary manifestations of slavery.

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0

International students: Full-time place, per year - £28,000; Part-time: £14,000

UK students: Full-time place, per year - £12,500; Part-time: £6,250

UK/Home: Full-time place, per year - £12,500; Part-time: £6,250

International: Full-time place, per year - £28,000; Part-time: £14,000

28 September 2026

Rolling admissions - apply early

• Liverpool, United Kingdom