Uncover the roots of today’s biggest political issues, from global conflicts to social movements, by exploring the events, ideas and decisions that came before. Understand how the past shapes the world we live in today
Get the tools to think critically, ask big questions and explore different viewpoints. You’ll build skills in research, analysis and communication to prepare for careers across government, media and charities, or as a strong foundation for further study.
You can study the MA and PGDip full-time or part-time. The PGCert can only be studied full-time. The MA runs over 12 months full-time; the PGDip runs over 8 months full-time and the PGCert runs over 4 months full-time.
September - December (11 weeks)
Full-time students normally take three modules per term in the first two terms.
There are usually two hours of seminar time per module per week, with an emphasis on guided independent learning.
One-third of the MA degree is the dissertation. Full-time MA students begin planning their dissertation topic during term one.
PGCert students finish the course in the autumn term with 60 credits.
January - April (12 weeks)
Full-time MA and PGDip students normally take three modules per term in the first two terms.
During term two full-time MA students are assigned a supervisor for their dissertation and carry out research for their chosen topic. PGDip students don’t complete a dissertation and finish the course in the spring term with 120 credits.
May – August
For full-time MA students, there are no taught modules during term three. You’ll continue your research and writing ready to submit your dissertation at the end of August.
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To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
You will need an Honours degree, normally in any humanities or social science discipline such as History, Politics, International Relations, Cultural Studies, or Literature, and normally of an upper second-class standard. Relevant equivalent study or professional experience can also be considered for entry, for the MA, PGDip, and PGCert.
English language requirements If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.