MRes in History at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

The MRes in History at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is a postgraduate research-focused program designed for students with a passion for history and a desire to develop advanced research skills. This program offers an in-depth exploration of historical topics, preparing students to undertake independent research, contribute to historical debates, and pursue careers in academia, archives, museums, heritage, and beyond. It combines historical analysis with rigorous research methodology, equipping students with the tools to explore a wide range of historical periods, events, and themes.

Why Study the MRes in History at UCLan?

1. Research-Oriented Learning: The MRes in History is fundamentally a research-driven program, making it ideal for students looking to develop their research skills to a high level. UCLan’s academic staff are experienced historians with a wealth of expertise across a variety of historical periods, regions, and topics, ensuring that students receive comprehensive academic guidance and support.

2. Broad and Diverse Expertise: UCLan has a vibrant and diverse history department, where students can explore a range of historical topics, from medieval to modern history, as well as global and local histories. Whether you are interested in political, social, cultural, economic, or military history, UCLan offers a rich variety of research opportunities.

3. Access to Extensive Resources: UCLan provides students with access to excellent research resources, including extensive digital archives, primary source collections, and links with local museums, libraries, and heritage sites. The program also benefits from UCLan’s collaborative links with external institutions and research centers.

4. Career Prospects: The MRes in History prepares students for a wide range of career paths, from academic roles and heritage management to research positions in government, media, publishing, and the private sector. The program’s emphasis on independent research, critical thinking, and writing prepares graduates for both further study and a wide range of professional careers.

5. Personalized Supervision: One of the key features of the MRes program at UCLan is the close relationship students develop with their academic supervisors. Each student is paired with a dedicated supervisor who offers personalized guidance throughout the research process, from topic selection to final dissertation submission.

Program Modules

The MRes in History is designed to build both your theoretical knowledge of history and practical research skills. The program includes a mix of taught modules and a dissertation component, with the following key modules:

1. Research Methodology in History: This core module provides students with the essential tools and techniques needed to conduct historical research. It covers both qualitative and quantitative research methods, archival research, oral history, and historiography. The module also includes guidance on how to critically engage with sources and develop research questions.

2. Historiography and Historical Theory: In this module, students critically examine the evolution of historical writing and the theoretical approaches that have shaped historical scholarship. It explores key debates in historical theory, including the role of ideology, memory, and historical narrative in shaping our understanding of the past.

3. Research Design and Proposal: This module is designed to help students develop their dissertation research proposal. It includes practical advice on how to frame a research question, develop a research plan, and engage with primary and secondary sources.

4. Thematic and Period-Based Research: This module allows students to focus on a specific historical theme, period, or region. Students can choose from a variety of topics, such as medieval history, modern European history, colonialism and decolonization, or the history of social movements. This module enables students to immerse themselves in specialized historical fields.

5. Dissertation: The dissertation is the centerpiece of the MRes program, allowing students to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice. Under the guidance of their supervisor, students will design and execute a research project, producing a substantial piece of original historical research. The dissertation is an opportunity to contribute to the historical field and showcase your research and writing skills.

Career Perspective

Graduates of the MRes in History at UCLan are well-prepared for a variety of careers. The program equips students with valuable research, writing, and analytical skills that are highly transferable to many professional fields. Career paths for MRes graduates include:

• Academic Careers: Many students continue their studies with a PhD, pursuing a career in academia as university lecturers or researchers. The MRes provides an excellent foundation for doctoral research and higher-level academic work.
• Heritage and Museum Work: Graduates can work in museums, galleries, and archives, where they can apply their research skills to curating exhibits, managing collections, and developing public history programs.
• Research and Analysis: History graduates often go into research roles in both public and private sectors, such as government agencies, think tanks, and media organizations. They may work on policy research, historical consulting, or content creation.
• Publishing: Some graduates find employment in publishing, writing books, articles, and content for various audiences. Their strong writing skills make them ideal candidates for roles in editing and publishing.
• Cultural and Heritage Management: Graduates can also work in heritage management, contributing to the preservation and interpretation of cultural heritage, both in the UK and internationally.
• Public History and Education: History graduates may find roles in education, either as teachers or through roles in outreach programs, historical societies, or media production.

The program’s rigorous academic focus on research and writing, combined with transferable skills, ensures that graduates are well-prepared for a wide variety of careers.

Scholarships and Bursaries for Sri Lankan Students

UCLan offers a number of financial support opportunities to international students, including those from Sri Lanka, to help make studying more affordable. Scholarships and bursaries include:

1. International Bursary: Sri Lankan students can apply for the UCLan International Bursary, which provides a reduction in tuition fees for eligible students. This bursary is aimed at making studying at UCLan more affordable for international students.
   
   For Year 2025/26 - Upto 1000 GBP

2. Excellence Scholarship: UCLan also offers the Excellence Scholarship to high-achieving international students, which rewards exceptional academic performance and provides a significant reduction in tuition fees. Students who demonstrate academic excellence in their undergraduate studies are encouraged to apply.
   
   For Year 2025/26 - Upto 3000 GBP

3. Other Funding Opportunities: UCLan offers additional scholarships and financial aid for international students. These include merit-based scholarships, country-specific awards, and funding for students who demonstrate financial need. Sri Lankan students are advised to check the university’s website for the most up-to-date information on available scholarships and how to apply.

Conclusion

The MRes in History at the University of Central Lancashire provides an excellent opportunity for students passionate about history and research. The program offers a rigorous academic framework, with an emphasis on developing advanced research skills, critical thinking, and specialized historical knowledge. The combination of dedicated academic supervision, a wide range of historical topics, and an intensive research focus makes this program ideal for students wishing to pursue further academic study or careers in history, heritage, research, and related fields.

UCLan’s global reputation for research, strong academic support, and access to extensive resources make it an excellent choice for students, especially those from Sri Lanka, who are seeking a world-class education in history. With various scholarships and bursaries available, UCLan ensures that financial support is accessible to international students, allowing them to focus on their academic and professional goals.

Whether you aspire to become an academic, contribute to the heritage sector, or embark on a research career, the MRes in History at UCLan provides the foundation for a successful future in the field of history.