Contemporary British History – (M.A.)

This programme provides training in and experience of historical analysis of issues of importance for the understanding of contemporary Britain. It focuses upon the study of British history over the past century, but assumes that British history must be understood in relation to other countries and regions, in particular the Empire/Commonwealth, Europe and North America.
Alongside the development of techniques, skills and knowledge relevant to the interests and research needs of individual students, the programme aims to equip students for both independent research and analysis in primary and secondary material, and writing at an advanced level, thus fostering students’ intellectual development and independent learning ability required for continuing professional and personal development.
It is taught by staff within the newly formed Institute for Contemporary History, led by Professor Pat Thane, drawing on the expertise of staff within the Institute, the Department of History, the School of Law, and the Department of War Studies, in subjects such as political history, social and demographic history, economic history and international history. The History & Policy unit, which is part of the ICH, also contributes to the course, offering students the opportunity to consider how history can, has or should influence policy-making.