History University of Galway

Overview

Students of the History programme at University of Galway  will acquire key skills – identifying and locating historical sources, interpreting them in their wider context, and learning how to present their findings to others. While fulfilling their passion for engaging with the past, students acquire competencies essential to the modern workplace from rigorous analysis to clear communication.

Key facts

The Masters in History at the University of Galway offers students the opportunity to explore the past in greater depth, while also developing advanced research, analytical, and critical thinking skills. The programme is designed to give students both breadth and flexibility: you will gain a grounding in the key debates and methods that shape historical study, while at the same time also tailoring your learning to your particular interests through specialised pathways. Full-time students complete the programme in one year; part-time students complete it in two years, facilitated by the scheduling of many modules in the evenings or as a week-long block. You will take a set of core modules that introduce you to historical theory, historiography, and advanced research methods. These ensure you are equipped with the essential skills and frameworks to approach complex historical debates. Alongside these, a wide range of optional modules allows you to shape your degree around your personal interests, such as local history, transnational and global history, political history, social history, global history, women’s history, the history of race and ethnicity, ethics and AI, activism and advocacy.  Alongside taught elements, the programme culminates in the completion of your masters thesis/dissertation where you will work closely with a supervisor to produce an original piece of historical research. This independent project is both a capstone to your degree and a preparation for further research or professional application of your skills. The breadth of expertise in early modern and modern history available at the University of Galway allows students considerable freedom to pursue a thesis topic of particular interest to them.