This MA program is designed to fulfil the student's quest for knowledge, by taking the study of history to a deeper level. Whether students have their sights set on progression in a career where the skills of a serious historian are valuable, or they are considering continuing on to a doctoral degree, they should find this program stimulating and enjoyable.

Lancaster's History MA offers students the opportunity to pursue their chosen period or research specialism through one of its three pathways (set out in detail at the bottom of the page): Medieval and Early Modern, Modern, and Heritage. Alternatively, a bespoke History MA allows students to tailor their options according to their interests. Each pathway consists of five taught modules and a substantial piece of original research in the form of an 18 -20,000 word dissertation: the opportunity to design a unique piece of research, ambitious in its rigour, which will make a significant contribution to knowledge in the student's chosen field. 

Students will be trained by experienced historians, who are expert not only in their subject specialism, but also in the skills they deploy in working with their primary sources: from Roman pottery  to medieval manuscripts, from landscapes to literature, from the moving image to oral histories. In the course of their studies, students will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of potential sources, gain fundamental skills, and discover their own innovative approaches to primary material.

Students can take advantage of the department's excellent relationship with local and national heritage organisations by applying to undertake a placement at an historical site, in an archive or at a museum.  If the student's placement application is selected by the heritage partner, they will have the opportunity for a rewarding experience gaining skills relevant to the heritage sector, and in many cases providing valuable insight into how their skills as a historian can be used in work relating to causes and commerce. If students are considering a career in teaching, there are opportunities for supervised school placements that provide a taster of the profession and experience in applying their academic expertise in a classroom.