The MPhil in Modern European History focuses on the study of continental Europe from roughly the middle of the 18th century to the present day. The course offers an introduction to key themes and selected topics in modern European history, as well as intensive methodological and historiographical training in the social, cultural, political and economic history of modern Europe.
The MPhil in Modern European History combines taught and research elements over a nine-month full-time programme. The taught elements include modules on research topics, skills training, training workshops and seminars, and all students will also complete a long piece of independent research (15,000– 20,000 words). Students will usually need a reading knowledge of the language of the country they wish to study, though this is not a formal requirement, especially for topics with a transnational focus.
Throughout the course, students will be individually supervised by an expert in the field, who will guide their research towards the completion of an original historical subject chosen and developed by them. In addition, students will benefit from Cambridge's vibrant research environment in modern European history, attending and participating in guest talks, workshops, research seminars and other events throughout the year.
The course is designed for those who have completed degrees in which History is the main or at least a substantial component and who want to consolidate their knowledge of modern European history. It is appropriate for those wishing to pursue a PhD at Cambridge or elsewhere. It is also well-suited to those seeking to explore modern European history more deeply. It is expected that this will be the normal means by which those without an appropriate master's degree from elsewhere will prepare for doctoral study in modern European history at Cambridge.
Cambridge graduates from the MPhil in Modern European History go on to enjoy successful careers in many fields within and beyond academic life, including law, journalism, and the administration of NGOs and international organisations.
The MPhil in Modern European History is a nine-month full-time programme combining elements of formal teaching with extensive independent research. Students on the MPhil will join a group of researchers of all levels within the field, allowing them to integrate into the research culture of modern European history at Cambridge.
The teaching for the MPhil consists of a ‘core’ module for all Modern European History students, and two ‘option’ modules from a list published by the Faculty.
The options offered each year vary. An illustrative list of options previously offered in modern European history includes:
Students will also attend the weekly modern European history research seminars and postgraduate workshop. The postgraduate workshop is an excellent and extremely helpful forum for postgraduates to present work and learn a variety of skills.
Students will receive regular constructive feedback throughout the MPhil.
Students can expect to receive:
Applicants for this course should have achieved a High II.i Honours Degree .
If your degree is not from the UK, please check International Qualifications to find the equivalent in your country.
Please be aware that this is the minimum criterion for academic results, and that attaining this minimum does not assure admission to the MPhil. Admissions are fiercely competitive and many students who meet the minimum standard are not accepted onto the MPhil.
You will normally be expected to have taken a substantial number of history courses at university level and to have a sound background in the period covered by the course. Most applicants are completing or have completed degrees in history or a cognate discipline.
University Minimum Academic Requirements
Score : Grade A & B (overall score of 193, with no element lower than 185 plus a Language Centre assessment)
Score : Grade A, B, or C (with at least 200 with no element lower than 185).