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University of Warwick: History
| Institution | University of Warwick View institution profile |
|---|---|
| Department | History |
| Web | https://warwick.ac.uk/ |
Doctor of Philosophy - PhD
Summary
With a reputation for national and international excellence and innovation, our History Department was ranked fourth in the country for the highest combined percentage (92%) of world-leading and internationally excellent research outputs (REF 2021). Surrounded and supported by a host of exceptional historians, you will be exposed to diverse and international views, people and research, all encouraging and challenging you to think unconventionally and creatively about the past.
Course overview The breadth of expertise and experience in the History Department (currently forty or so full-time members of staff), along with a thriving culture of research, seminars and conferences, make Warwick one of the very best universities in the UK to undertake research in history. 92% of our research was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in REF 2021 and our Department achieved a 89% overall satisfaction result in the 2023 Postgraduate Research Experience Survey, one of the highest in the country.
PhD students normally complete their degrees within three to four years of full-time study, or five to six years part-time. As a research student, your closest contact will be with your supervisor, or supervisors, who will meet with you regularly to discuss your work, and agree a programme of reading, research and writing with you.
Additional support and training, including English language support for those studying for a PhD in a second language, are provided by the Department, Arts Faculty and the Graduate School, as well as by History’s many reading groups, seminars, workshops and conferences. History researchers benefit from the University Library’s Research Exchange, a dedicated postgraduate conference and study area, with state-of-the-art facilities.
For postgraduate queries, please email PGHistoryOffice@warwick.ac.uk
For further information, including details about funding opportunities, please visit the History Department web pages.
This information is applicable for 2025 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply.
| Student.recruitment@warwick.ac.uk | |
| Telephone | 024 7652 4585 |
| Study type | Research |
| Level | RQF Level 8 |
| Entry requirements | Minimum requirements English language requirements Band B All of our courses are delivered in English so, if English is not your first language, you have not graduated from an English speaking university or worked in an English speaking environment for at least two years you must demonstrate a minimum overall standard in a recognised English Language Test. The certificate will be required as evidence. The department and university offer assistance for students working in a second language. International qualifications |
| Location | Main Site Academic Office University Road Coventry CV4 7AL |
Summary
With a reputation for national and international excellence and innovation, our History Department was ranked fourth in the country for the highest combined percentage (92%) of world-leading and internationally excellent research outputs (REF 2021). Surrounded and supported by a host of exceptional historians, you will be exposed to diverse and international views, people and research, all encouraging and challenging you to think unconventionally and creatively about the past.
Course overview The breadth of expertise and experience in the History Department (currently forty or so full-time members of staff), along with a thriving culture of research, seminars and conferences, make Warwick one of the very best universities in the UK to undertake research in history. 92% of our research was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in REF 2021 and our Department achieved a 89% overall satisfaction result in the 2023 Postgraduate Research Experience Survey, one of the highest in the country.
PhD students normally complete their degrees within three to four years of full-time study, or five to six years part-time. As a research student, your closest contact will be with your supervisor, or supervisors, who will meet with you regularly to discuss your work, and agree a programme of reading, research and writing with you.
Additional support and training, including English language support for those studying for a PhD in a second language, are provided by the Department, Arts Faculty and the Graduate School, as well as by History’s many reading groups, seminars, workshops and conferences. History researchers benefit from the University Library’s Research Exchange, a dedicated postgraduate conference and study area, with state-of-the-art facilities.
For postgraduate queries, please email PGHistoryOffice@warwick.ac.uk
For further information, including details about funding opportunities, please visit the History Department web pages.
This information is applicable for 2025 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply.
| Student.recruitment@warwick.ac.uk | |
| Telephone | 024 7652 4585 |
| Study type | Research |
| Level | RQF Level 8 |
| Entry requirements | Minimum requirements English language requirements Band B All of our courses are delivered in English so, if English is not your first language, you have not graduated from an English speaking university or worked in an English speaking environment for at least two years you must demonstrate a minimum overall standard in a recognised English Language Test. The certificate will be required as evidence. The department and university offer assistance for students working in a second language. International qualifications |
| Location | Main Site Academic Office University Road Coventry CV4 7AL |
Summary
With a reputation for national and international excellence and innovation, our History Department was ranked fourth in the country for the highest combined percentage (92%) of world-leading and internationally excellent research outputs (REF 2021). Surrounded and supported by a host of exceptional historians, you will be exposed to diverse and international views, people and research, all encouraging and challenging you to think unconventionally and creatively about the past.
Course overview The breadth of expertise and experience in the History Department (currently forty or so full-time members of staff), along with a thriving culture of research, seminars and conferences, make Warwick one of the very best universities in the UK to undertake research in history. 92% of our research was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in REF 2021 and our Department achieved a 89% overall satisfaction result in the 2023 Postgraduate Research Experience Survey, one of the highest in the country.
PhD students normally complete their degrees within three to four years of full-time study, or five to six years part-time. As a research student, your closest contact will be with your supervisor, or supervisors, who will meet with you regularly to discuss your work, and agree a programme of reading, research and writing with you.
Additional support and training, including English language support for those studying for a PhD in a second language, are provided by the Department, Arts Faculty and the Graduate School, as well as by History’s many reading groups, seminars, workshops and conferences. History researchers benefit from the University Library’s Research Exchange, a dedicated postgraduate conference and study area, with state-of-the-art facilities.
For postgraduate queries, please email PGHistoryOffice@warwick.ac.uk
For further information, including details about funding opportunities, please visit the History Department web pages.
This information is applicable for 2025 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply.
| Student.recruitment@warwick.ac.uk | |
| Telephone | 024 7652 4585 |
| Study type | Research |
| Level | RQF Level 8 |
| Entry requirements | Minimum requirements English language requirements Band B All of our courses are delivered in English so, if English is not your first language, you have not graduated from an English speaking university or worked in an English speaking environment for at least two years you must demonstrate a minimum overall standard in a recognised English Language Test. The certificate will be required as evidence. The department and university offer assistance for students working in a second language. International qualifications |
| Location | Main Site Academic Office University Road Coventry CV4 7AL |
Summary
With a reputation for national and international excellence and innovation, our History Department was ranked fourth in the country for the highest combined percentage (92%) of world-leading and internationally excellent research outputs (REF 2021). Surrounded and supported by a host of exceptional historians, you will be exposed to diverse and international views, people and research, all encouraging and challenging you to think unconventionally and creatively about the past.
Course overview The breadth of expertise and experience in the History Department (currently forty or so full-time members of staff), along with a thriving culture of research, seminars and conferences, make Warwick one of the very best universities in the UK to undertake research in history. 92% of our research was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in REF 2021 and our Department achieved a 89% overall satisfaction result in the 2023 Postgraduate Research Experience Survey, one of the highest in the country.
PhD students normally complete their degrees within three to four years of full-time study, or five to six years part-time. As a research student, your closest contact will be with your supervisor, or supervisors, who will meet with you regularly to discuss your work, and agree a programme of reading, research and writing with you.
Additional support and training, including English language support for those studying for a PhD in a second language, are provided by the Department, Arts Faculty and the Graduate School, as well as by History’s many reading groups, seminars, workshops and conferences. History researchers benefit from the University Library’s Research Exchange, a dedicated postgraduate conference and study area, with state-of-the-art facilities.
For postgraduate queries, please email PGHistoryOffice@warwick.ac.uk
For further information, including details about funding opportunities, please visit the History Department web pages.
This information is applicable for 2025 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply.
| Student.recruitment@warwick.ac.uk | |
| Telephone | 024 7652 4585 |
| Study type | Research |
| Level | RQF Level 8 |
| Entry requirements | Minimum requirements English language requirements Band B All of our courses are delivered in English so, if English is not your first language, you have not graduated from an English speaking university or worked in an English speaking environment for at least two years you must demonstrate a minimum overall standard in a recognised English Language Test. The certificate will be required as evidence. The department and university offer assistance for students working in a second language. International qualifications |
| Location | Main Site Academic Office University Road Coventry CV4 7AL |
MA
Summary
Important information
We are planning to make some changes to our History (MA) for 2026 entry. Changes are currently undergoing approval through the University's rigorous academic processes. It is therefore very important that you check our website for the latest information before you apply and prior to accepting an offer.
The Warwick History MA offers advanced study in history. Our MA programme allows you the opportunity to both specialise and diversify, to follow your passion and to try something new. You will be taught by experts in their field, introducing you to their areas of research and what it is to be a historian. You will have the opportunity to study and write about what really enthuses you, and to pursue in-depth research on your chosen dissertation topic. Optional modules will offer a chronological, geographical, and thematic range of topics, including in modern history, early modern history, global history, and the history of medicine. You’ll be able to take advantage of the Department's field-leading research centresLink opens in a new window, including participating in the lively schedule of academic research seminars, lectures and conferences.
Our new core module, redeveloped for 2026 entry, is called ‘History Writing: Theory and Practice.’ Over two terms you will learn about recent theories and methodologies in history writing to understand human experience and agency, questions of power and knowledge, and conceptions of historical change. As well as covering more fundamental themes and approaches to historical research, this module will enable you to prepare for the dissertation research and writing process. Interactive workshop sessions will support students to develop the skills needed to produce an original piece of historical research.
Students will have the option to graduate either with an MA in History, or an MA in a more specialised area of study. The routes available are:
-
MA History
-
MA History (Medicine, Science and Technology)
-
MA History (Early Modern)
-
MA History (Global and Comparative)
-
MA History (Modern)
In order to graduate with a specialised route title, you must pass at least 30 CATS of History modules and complete a dissertation in the relevant subject area. You must also attend research seminars and events in that area, and reflect on your learning from these events.
In terms of optional modules, you can take either two or three optional modules. The modules on offer each year will vary according to staff availability and student demand. We are currently revising our suite of optional modules for 2026-27, but they will offer a chronological, geographical, and thematic range of topics. You are also able to take optional modules in cognate disciplines e.g. Politics and International Relations, English and Comparative Literary Studies, Film & TV, History of Art, Theatre Studies, Modern Languages and Cultures, Sociology.
Finally, you will complete a dissertation. In your dissertation you will have a large amount of freedom to develop a project of your own choice with help and guidance from your supervisor who will meet with you regularly.
The programme will appeal equally to those wishing to undertake further postgraduate study and those pursuing a career outside of the University, equipping you with research, writing and critical thinking skills vital in a range of professions.
| Study type | Taught |
|---|---|
| Level | RQF Level 7 |
| Entry requirements | 2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a related subject |
| Location | Main Site Academic Office University Road Coventry CV4 7AL |
Summary
Important information
We are planning to make some changes to our History (MA) for 2026 entry. Changes are currently undergoing approval through the University's rigorous academic processes. It is therefore very important that you check our website for the latest information before you apply and prior to accepting an offer.
The Warwick History MA offers advanced study in history. Our MA programme allows you the opportunity to both specialise and diversify, to follow your passion and to try something new. You will be taught by experts in their field, introducing you to their areas of research and what it is to be a historian. You will have the opportunity to study and write about what really enthuses you, and to pursue in-depth research on your chosen dissertation topic. Optional modules will offer a chronological, geographical, and thematic range of topics, including in modern history, early modern history, global history, and the history of medicine. You’ll be able to take advantage of the Department's field-leading research centresLink opens in a new window, including participating in the lively schedule of academic research seminars, lectures and conferences.
Our new core module, redeveloped for 2026 entry, is called ‘History Writing: Theory and Practice.’ Over two terms you will learn about recent theories and methodologies in history writing to understand human experience and agency, questions of power and knowledge, and conceptions of historical change. As well as covering more fundamental themes and approaches to historical research, this module will enable you to prepare for the dissertation research and writing process. Interactive workshop sessions will support students to develop the skills needed to produce an original piece of historical research.
Students will have the option to graduate either with an MA in History, or an MA in a more specialised area of study. The routes available are:
-
MA History
-
MA History (Medicine, Science and Technology)
-
MA History (Early Modern)
-
MA History (Global and Comparative)
-
MA History (Modern)
In order to graduate with a specialised route title, you must pass at least 30 CATS of History modules and complete a dissertation in the relevant subject area. You must also attend research seminars and events in that area, and reflect on your learning from these events.
In terms of optional modules, you can take either two or three optional modules. The modules on offer each year will vary according to staff availability and student demand. We are currently revising our suite of optional modules for 2026-27, but they will offer a chronological, geographical, and thematic range of topics. You are also able to take optional modules in cognate disciplines e.g. Politics and International Relations, English and Comparative Literary Studies, Film & TV, History of Art, Theatre Studies, Modern Languages and Cultures, Sociology.
Finally, you will complete a dissertation. In your dissertation you will have a large amount of freedom to develop a project of your own choice with help and guidance from your supervisor who will meet with you regularly.
The programme will appeal equally to those wishing to undertake further postgraduate study and those pursuing a career outside of the University, equipping you with research, writing and critical thinking skills vital in a range of professions.
| Study type | Taught |
|---|---|
| Level | RQF Level 7 |
| Entry requirements | 2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a related subject |
| Location | Main Site Academic Office University Road Coventry CV4 7AL |
MA (Res)
Summary
With a reputation for national and international excellence and innovation, our History Department was ranked fourth in the country for the highest combined percentage (92%) of world-leading and internationally excellent research outputs (REF 2021). Surrounded and supported by a host of exceptional historians, you will be exposed to diverse and international views, people and research, all encouraging and challenging you to think unconventionally and creatively about the past.
Course overview The breadth of expertise and experience in the History Department (currently forty or so full-time members of staff), along with a thriving culture of research, seminars and conferences, make Warwick one of the very best universities in the UK to undertake research in history.
Students taking the MA by Research are expected to complete their degrees in one year of full-time study, or two years part-time. As a research student your closest contact will be with your supervisor, or supervisors, who will meet with you regularly to discuss your work, and agree a programme of reading, research and writing with you.
Additional support and training, including English language support, are provided by the Department, Arts Faculty and the Graduate School, as well as by History’s many reading groups, seminars, workshops and conferences. History researchers will benefit from the University Library’s Research Exchange, a dedicated postgraduate conference and study area, with state-of-the-art facilities.
Please contact the department to discuss whether the MA by Research, rather than the Taught MA, is the right course for you.
For postgraduate queries, please email PGHistoryOffice@warwick.ac.uk. For further information about the department, please visit the History Department web pages.
Teaching and learning You will take one core module Historical Research: Theories, Skills and Methods.
This 40 CATS one-term MA module for students is designed to equip students with the methodological skills needed to carry out an extended piece of historical research and writing.
This information is applicable for 2025 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply.
| Study type | Research |
|---|---|
| Level | RQF Level 7 |
| Entry requirements | Minimum requirements English language requirements Band B All of our courses are delivered in English so, if English is not your first language, you have not graduated from an English speaking university or worked in an English speaking environment for at least two years you must demonstrate a minimum overall standard in a recognised English Language Test. The certificate will be required as evidence. International qualifications |
| Location | Main Site Academic Office University Road Coventry CV4 7AL |
Summary
With a reputation for national and international excellence and innovation, our History Department was ranked fourth in the country for the highest combined percentage (92%) of world-leading and internationally excellent research outputs (REF 2021). Surrounded and supported by a host of exceptional historians, you will be exposed to diverse and international views, people and research, all encouraging and challenging you to think unconventionally and creatively about the past.
Course overview The breadth of expertise and experience in the History Department (currently forty or so full-time members of staff), along with a thriving culture of research, seminars and conferences, make Warwick one of the very best universities in the UK to undertake research in history.
Students taking the MA by Research are expected to complete their degrees in one year of full-time study, or two years part-time. As a research student your closest contact will be with your supervisor, or supervisors, who will meet with you regularly to discuss your work, and agree a programme of reading, research and writing with you.
Additional support and training, including English language support, are provided by the Department, Arts Faculty and the Graduate School, as well as by History’s many reading groups, seminars, workshops and conferences. History researchers will benefit from the University Library’s Research Exchange, a dedicated postgraduate conference and study area, with state-of-the-art facilities.
Please contact the department to discuss whether the MA by Research, rather than the Taught MA, is the right course for you.
For postgraduate queries, please email PGHistoryOffice@warwick.ac.uk. For further information about the department, please visit the History Department web pages.
Teaching and learning You will take one core module Historical Research: Theories, Skills and Methods.
This 40 CATS one-term MA module for students is designed to equip students with the methodological skills needed to carry out an extended piece of historical research and writing.
This information is applicable for 2025 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply.
| Study type | Research |
|---|---|
| Level | RQF Level 7 |
| Entry requirements | Minimum requirements English language requirements Band B All of our courses are delivered in English so, if English is not your first language, you have not graduated from an English speaking university or worked in an English speaking environment for at least two years you must demonstrate a minimum overall standard in a recognised English Language Test. The certificate will be required as evidence. International qualifications |
| Location | Main Site Academic Office University Road Coventry CV4 7AL |
Summary
With a reputation for national and international excellence and innovation, our History Department was ranked fourth in the country for the highest combined percentage (92%) of world-leading and internationally excellent research outputs (REF 2021). Surrounded and supported by a host of exceptional historians, you will be exposed to diverse and international views, people and research, all encouraging and challenging you to think unconventionally and creatively about the past.
Course overview The breadth of expertise and experience in the History Department (currently forty or so full-time members of staff), along with a thriving culture of research, seminars and conferences, make Warwick one of the very best universities in the UK to undertake research in history.
Students taking the MA by Research are expected to complete their degrees in one year of full-time study, or two years part-time. As a research student your closest contact will be with your supervisor, or supervisors, who will meet with you regularly to discuss your work, and agree a programme of reading, research and writing with you.
Additional support and training, including English language support, are provided by the Department, Arts Faculty and the Graduate School, as well as by History’s many reading groups, seminars, workshops and conferences. History researchers will benefit from the University Library’s Research Exchange, a dedicated postgraduate conference and study area, with state-of-the-art facilities.
Please contact the department to discuss whether the MA by Research, rather than the Taught MA, is the right course for you.
For postgraduate queries, please email PGHistoryOffice@warwick.ac.uk. For further information about the department, please visit the History Department web pages.
Teaching and learning You will take one core module Historical Research: Theories, Skills and Methods.
This 40 CATS one-term MA module for students is designed to equip students with the methodological skills needed to carry out an extended piece of historical research and writing.
This information is applicable for 2025 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply.
| Study type | Research |
|---|---|
| Level | RQF Level 7 |
| Entry requirements | Minimum requirements English language requirements Band B All of our courses are delivered in English so, if English is not your first language, you have not graduated from an English speaking university or worked in an English speaking environment for at least two years you must demonstrate a minimum overall standard in a recognised English Language Test. The certificate will be required as evidence. International qualifications |
| Location | Main Site Academic Office University Road Coventry CV4 7AL |
Summary
With a reputation for national and international excellence and innovation, our History Department was ranked fourth in the country for the highest combined percentage (92%) of world-leading and internationally excellent research outputs (REF 2021). Surrounded and supported by a host of exceptional historians, you will be exposed to diverse and international views, people and research, all encouraging and challenging you to think unconventionally and creatively about the past.
Course overview The breadth of expertise and experience in the History Department (currently forty or so full-time members of staff), along with a thriving culture of research, seminars and conferences, make Warwick one of the very best universities in the UK to undertake research in history.
Students taking the MA by Research are expected to complete their degrees in one year of full-time study, or two years part-time. As a research student your closest contact will be with your supervisor, or supervisors, who will meet with you regularly to discuss your work, and agree a programme of reading, research and writing with you.
Additional support and training, including English language support, are provided by the Department, Arts Faculty and the Graduate School, as well as by History’s many reading groups, seminars, workshops and conferences. History researchers will benefit from the University Library’s Research Exchange, a dedicated postgraduate conference and study area, with state-of-the-art facilities.
Please contact the department to discuss whether the MA by Research, rather than the Taught MA, is the right course for you.
For postgraduate queries, please email PGHistoryOffice@warwick.ac.uk. For further information about the department, please visit the History Department web pages.
Teaching and learning You will take one core module Historical Research: Theories, Skills and Methods.
This 40 CATS one-term MA module for students is designed to equip students with the methodological skills needed to carry out an extended piece of historical research and writing.
This information is applicable for 2025 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply.
| Study type | Research |
|---|---|
| Level | RQF Level 7 |
| Entry requirements | Minimum requirements English language requirements Band B All of our courses are delivered in English so, if English is not your first language, you have not graduated from an English speaking university or worked in an English speaking environment for at least two years you must demonstrate a minimum overall standard in a recognised English Language Test. The certificate will be required as evidence. International qualifications |
| Location | Main Site Academic Office University Road Coventry CV4 7AL |
Founded in 1965, the University of Warwick is ranked 74th in the QS World University Guide 2026, is the youngest member of the Russell Group and are listed within the top ten UK universities in all three major national league tables. However, we are so much more than our rankings.
We are renowned for seeking out and addressing complex global challenges with era-defining innovative thinking. A connected ecosystem of staff, students and alumni, the University fosters transformative learning, interdisciplinary collaboration and bold industry partnerships across state-of-the-art facilities in the UK and global satellite hubs.
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