History

The MA in History programme at the University of Galway introduces graduate students to advanced historical research. Led by specialists in Early Modern and Modern History, participants in the programme read widely in a range of fields, become familiar with disparate methods and sources, and complete a substantial research project. The programme hones research and writing skills. Graduates of the programme have pursued careers in academia, arts and media, education, business, law and the public service. Full-time students complete the programme in one year; part-time students complete it in two years. Some modules are offered in the evenings to facilitate part-time students.



Students may take the programme on a full-time [one year] or part-time [two year] basis. Part-time students take the programme over a two-year period, completing their research dissertation in Year Two. Some of the taught modules will be available in the evening.



How are these modules delivered?

These modules are taught through weekly two-hour seminars with a strong emphasis on student participation in discussion. Some seminars are held in the early evening to facilitate part-time students and students who live at a distance from campus.

Students taking the MA and the Postgraduate Diploma in History follow the same taught programme. There are three core modules, but only MA students write a dissertation.

• HI6104: Making History: Evidence and Interpretation (15 ECTS)

• HI503: Historical Debates and Controversies: Studies in Historiography (14 ECTS)

• HI509: Dissertation (MA Students only) (30 ECTS)



Optional Modules

Each student must take three additional modules. totalling (30 ECTS), with different modules offered from semester to semester. In 2024-25, the following modules were on offer:

• HI6108: Issues in Irish Local History (10 ECTS)

• HI6108: Everyday Lives: An Intimate History of the 20th Century Women (10 ECTS)

• HI6107: Historical Perspectives on Race and Ethnicity: Race and Reparative Histories

• (10 ECTS)

• SP6122 Social and Political Context of Activism and Advocacy (10 ECTS)

• FM6119 Film, Politics, and Colonialism (10 ECTS)

• MIC6100 Resisting through Culture: Conflicts in Europe and Beyond (10 ECTS).



Please see Course Web Page above for module details.

A Second Class Honours BA degree or equivalent with a H2.1 or GPA of 3.3 in History is normally required. Different criteria may apply to mature applicants.



Selection will be based on applicants' academic record and academic references testifying to their academic ability and enthusiasm for history. An applicant’s active engagement with history outside of the academic context may also be taken into consideration



The same entry requirements and application procedure are in place for both the MA and PDip programme.

Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.



An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).

1 year, full-time

2 years, part-time

Next start date September 2025

Career Opportunities

The MA provides an excellent foundation for doctoral studies in History, and also for those intent on pursuing independent research. Graduates of the programme have found employment in areas such as teaching, public administration, research, library and archives services, cultural and heritage development, tourism, print and electronic media, and party politics. Career benefits from the programme should accrue to those already employed in such areas.