COURSE OVERVIEW

A PhD or MPhil in History enables you to undertake a substantial project led by your own passions and interests.

You submit a thesis of up to 100,000 words for PhD assessment and 60,000 words for MPhil assessment. This is followed by an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination, or viva).

In both programmes you will conduct original research, supervised by our expert, culminating in a thesis that makes an original contribution to our knowledge and understanding of the past.

We specialise in Medieval, Early Modern and Modern History including British, European and Global History. The research of our staff and postgraduates is integral to the life of the department, making Swansea a dynamic and stimulating place to study.

Swansea University is ranked 26th in the UK for research quality and 22nd for research impact (REF 2014).

The Department of History organises a large number of seminars, conferences, and other research activities which you are able to attend to enhance your research project.

Programme Summary

This PhD in History at Swansea will enable you to undertake a substantial project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can present a career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 100,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The PhD is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva voce). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. There will be an opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars and conferences. There may also be opportunities to develop your teaching skills through undergraduate tutorials, demonstrations and seminars.

Programme Aims

This PhD programme will provide doctoral researchers with:

The opportunity to conduct high quality postgraduate research in a world leading research environment.
Key skills needed to undertake advanced academic and non-academic research including qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
Advanced critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and independent judgement.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises three key elements:

Entry and confirmation of candidature
Main body of research
Thesis and viva voce

The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 3 years duration full time (6 years duration part time). Doctoral researchers may pursue the programme either full time or part time by pursuing research at the University at an external place of employment or with/at a University approved partner.