Before coming to The University of Manchester I read History at Cambridge, where I developed a particular interest in histories of the nuclear/space ages and environmental history.
This made CHSTM the natural choice for my master's as the UK’s largest centre devoted to the integrated study of the History of Science, Technology and Medicine. I've greatly enjoyed my time as a postgrad at Manchester. The master's programme not only provides a strong grounding in core concepts but the opportunity for individual specialisation too. The option to undertake a placement also offers valuable work experience and industry skills. The department, more generally, fosters a friendly atmosphere and a real sense of community, regularly organising events and outings for students. It's both the academic expertise and supportive nature of the department that has helped me secure a fully-funded PhD fellowship in the US; I'm off to DC next year to study at George Washington University, home to the National Security Archives and the ‘Nuclear Vault’. I'm in no doubt that the master’s has equipped me well for PhD study, but also for life and work beyond academia as well. I would encourage anyone with a broad or specific interest in HSTM to apply. It doesn't matter if you've studied humanities or sciences – it's this diversity in training and backgrounds that makes CHSTM such a rich department to be a part of.
Our taught MA History of Science, Technology and Medicine (HSTM) focuses on key topics from the 19th century to the present, and gives students a critical perspective on global challenges such as:
The degree focuses on humanities skills, but can be taken successfully by students from any disciplinary background.
Our flexible curriculum provides breadth and choice across the history of science, technology and medicine, allowing you to tailor studies to individual interests.
The placement option allows you to gain transferable skills for employment by working with museums, charities, policy organisations and heritage bodies.
You will become an integrated member of a vibrant research community with dedicated facilities and a regular seminar programme.
You will learn from and work with world-leading staff, whose expertise encompasses political, social, and cultural approaches to the history of science, technology and medicine, from both national and global perspectives.
PhD with integrated master's
If you're planning to undertake a PhD after your master's, our Integrated PhD programme will enable you to combine your postgraduate taught course with a related PhD project in biology, medicine or health.
Placement option
The optional placement unit enables you to gain direct professional experience and enhance your CV by working with an organisation from the heritage, charitable or policymaking sectors. This allows you to gain practical skills that can be invaluable both in your studies and when applying for jobs after graduating.
Explore Manchester's history
Manchester is the classic 'shock city' of the Industrial Revolution and its environmental and social outcomes. It is a global city whose identity is closely linked to scientific discovery. You'll be able to relive the development of industrial society through visits to local museums and sites of historic interest.
Research support
We have 22 members of staff with expertise across the history of science, technology and medicine. All our staff offer dissertation supervision in a range of specialist areas.
Opportunities for further study and experience
Take optional classes and volunteering opportunities shared with the parallel MSc Science and Health Communication course at Manchester, including science policy, science media, museums and public events activities.
Convenient study options
Benefit from flexible options for full or part-time study.
We require an Upper Second-class honours degree or overseas equivalent in an appropriate discipline, which may include humanities or science subjects. You should provide transcripts or study plans indicating performance on the most relevant course content.
Applicants may also be accepted based on evidence of alternative study, research or professional experience that meets the University's central requirements.
This course is also available for intercalating medical students, both from the University of Manchester and other UK universities, upon completion of their third year. For St Andrews students, this includes the three-year course plus the following one or two years spent in Manchester. Intercalating medical students need to have passed all assessments at first attempt (if they are third year) or have no fails in third year if they are fourth year.