History and PoliticsMA / PGDip / PGCert

This dynamic, interdisciplinary programme encourages you to think beyond conventional boundaries, preparing you for further postgraduate study or a wide range of careers across the public, private, and non-profit sectors.

Course structure

You can study the MA and PGDip full-time or part-time. The PGCert can only be studied full-time.   The MA runs over 12 months full-time; the PGDip runs over 8 months full-time and the PGCert runs over 4 months full-time.   

On the History side, you'll engage deeply with key historical events, theories, and methodologies. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the Department’s diverse research specialisms, gaining an insight into the major theoretical and methodological debates shaping the field today.

On the Politics side, you’ll explore pressing political issues and key debates, developing a solid understanding of political theory, concepts, and research methods. You’ll be encouraged to think critically and apply your learning to real-world scenarios, enhancing your ability to engage with complex political questions.

• Learn from the expertise of two departments - the School of History and Cultures and School of Government. Both are ranked in the top 10 in the country in the Research Excellence Framework exercise 2021.
• Make the most of our outstanding international reputation for research by engaging with events and research seminars in both disciplines.
• Enhance your knowledge from a global perspective with our modules covering topics from all over the world.  

Benefit from world-class teaching from academics conducting research that makes a real difference. Our History department is ranked eighth in the country in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) exercise 2021, according to Times Higher Education, and we're also ranked ninth in the UK for research power in Politics and International studies (REF 2021).

• Taught modules - each module represents a total of 200 hours of study time, including preparatory reading, homework and assignment preparation.
• Seminars – modules are mainly taught by small group teaching.
• Dissertation – you'll undertake a dissertation in either History or Politics.

You can choose to study a PG Certificate (PGCert) or PG Diploma (PGDip) rather than a full MA. A PGCert and PGDip don't include the dissertation element. The length of your course depends on which type of qualification you choose and whether you choose to study full-time or part-time. 

The PGDip programme comprises 120 credits of taught modules – you don’t complete a dissertation.

The PGCert comprises 60 credits of taught modules.

Modules run for one term, and each module involves a two-hour weekly seminar which you need to attend.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

2025/26 Session

The following must be taken:

Students must choose ONE 60-credit Dissertation Module, from either History or Political Science.

Students will choose 80 credits of optional modules, 40 credits from each department.

From History, students will choose EITHER TWO 20 credit LM Options OR TWO co-requisite Special Subjects to the value of 40 credits (20 credits in each Semester).

From Political Science, students will choose TWO 20 credit optional modules.

History LM Options:

History Special Subjects (Students will choose TWO co-requisite modules, 20 credits in each Semester). 

Political Science Options:

You will need an Honours degree, normally in any humanities or social science discipline such as History, Politics, International Relations, Cultural Studies, or Literature, and normally of an upper second-class standard. Relevant equivalent study or professional experience can also be considered for entry, for the MA, PGDip, and PGCert.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English Presessional Programmes

Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Postgraduate Masters Loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.