Why not do something you love while gaining a useful qualification? Study for an MA in History at the University of Galway. There are still some places for September 2023, with full-time (one year) and part-time (two year) options. Students will learn about controversies in History, engage with a range of archival material, and carry out research under the mentorship of an experienced historian. 

This master’s programme enables you to develop a sophisticated understanding of the challenges of interpreting the past. Specialists in modern, early modern and medieval history introduce you to a range of historical sources, reflecting on their uses and limitations. You will learn to evaluate ways in which historians, politicians and the media interpret the past. You will develop research and analytical skills, using the techniques of the history profession to present your findings. Find Out More here.

  • Please note that some modules are offered in the evenings to facilitate part-time students

Core Structure

All students take two core modules: Making History: evidence and interpretation [15 ECTS] and Historical Debates and Controversies: Studies in Historiography [15 ECTS]. ‌ These are taught by historians working in medieval, early modern and modern history.

Students take three optional modules [10 ECTS each] from the lists below.  While these address a variety of themes and issues, there is a particular emphasis on Transnational History, which studies the movement of people, ideas, and goods across national borders. The core modules on the programme also address questions relevant to this area.

Semester 1

Semester 2

Core Modules

  • HI6104 Making History: evidence and interpretation (Dr Róisín Healy)
  • HI503 Historical Debates and Controversies (Dr Gearóid Barry)

Core Modules

  • HI509 Dissertation (Dr Sarah-Anne Buckley)

Optional Modules : ONE of the following:

  • HI6106 Issues in Local History (Prof. Breandán Mac Suibhne) 
  • PI6103 Knowledge and Value in Modernity

Optional Modules : TWO of the following:

  • HI580 Irish Contacts with Europe, 1770-1973 (Dr. Róisín Healy)
  • HI6100 NGOS and the making of the 20th century world (Dr Kevin O'Sullivan)
  • SP6120 Irish Politics, North and South (Prof. Niall Ó Dochartaigh) 
  • DJ6125 Investigating Miscarriages of Justing
  • PI6102 Political values in the modern world

Most of these modules are taught through weekly two-hour seminars with a strong emphasis on student participation in discussion.

We hope to be able to offer all the options listed above but cannot guarantee staff availability absolutely at this stage. 

Assessment

All modules are assessed by coursework. Modes of assessment include projects, essays, reviews, reports and oral presentations. A final dissertation involving original research is an essential component of the programme (except for those taking the post-graduate diploma).

Testimonials

The M.A. in History at University of Galway appealed to me for a variety of reasons. For an American student, it was cost-affordable, but I also enjoyed the fact that there were several specific routes that I could take within the programme such as transnational history and local and regional history.  I was able to learn about a variety of types of history and historical writing while also developing my interest in childhood and gender studies. We were instructed by members of the history staff, as well as lecturers from other areas, with each instructor offering us a new perspective. The lecturers were constantly available to offer advice and the weekly seminars allowed for us to witness upcoming research publications and network within the historical community.

For my dissertation, I delved into the archives at the local county council and learned with absolute certainty that I wanted to pursue a Ph.D. The M.A. programme gave me the focus and momentum needed to continue my research to doctoral level, and I am now an IRC funded PhD student at University of Galway.

Jamie Canavan, MA History

How to Apply

Applications are made online via the University of Galway Postgraduate Applications System

Selection will be based on applicants' academic record and academic references testifying to their enthusiasm for the subject and their ability to carry out a research project.

Contact

Dr John Cunningham
Programme Director
Discipline of History
T: +353 91 495 642
E: john.cunningham@universityofgalway.ie 

Useful Links

Postgraduate Scholarships 

Information on Fees 

FAQ for Postgraduates 

Guidelines on Thesis Submission 

Information on SUSI grants for postgrad students