MA in European History

University College Dublin

The MA European History (UNICA) is a stimulating two-year interdisciplinary, comparative Master’s programme which offers the choice between partner universities in five European capitals – Dublin, Berlin, Paris, Rome, and Vienna. Over two years, students study in two or three of the collaborating universities, beginning and completing their programme in their host university.

This diverse programme focuses on the comparative analysis of European history and students will develop the ability to understand historical problems in a comparative framework. The programme is taught in English, so that all partner universities offer some modules in English. It is also possible to take modules in the local language. This programme provides excellent preparation for students wishing to pursue a PhD in European history and equips students with a wide range of skills in the international jobs market.

• This diverse programme focuses on the comparative analysis of European history
• Students will develop the ability to understand historical problems in a comparative framework
• The programme will be carried out in English, meaning English will be accepted at all partner universities for presentations and assignments

Careers & Employability

Our graduates progress to a wide range of interesting careers.

Many of our alumni work in international business, foreign affairs and Dublin's vibrant tech sector, where a background in the global humanities is particularly valued. Other graduates work in senior positions across a diverse range of industries including education, the media, NGOs and the Arts, whilst some continue on to PhD research.

Vision and Values Statement

This MA programme offers an innovative and structured introduction to graduate study of European history. The programme has been designed for graduate students with a particular interest in European history, who intend to continue to more advanced graduate research.

Over the course of the two year programme, students have the opportunity to study at three leading European universities, developing an understanding of different historiographical and methodological approaches, appreciating the value of comparative approaches to European history, and developing linguistic and other skills necessary for more advanced graduate study. The mobility of the programme enables students to develop their own transnational networks with researchers and fellow students throughout Europe.

What constitutes European history has been endlessly debated and it is not the purpose of this programme to establish particular claims for the chronological and geographical boundaries of European history. The programme instead encourages students to think about European history within a comparative framework, be that comparing regions, nations, or other categories of analysis.

The structure of the programme encourages students to identify the partners within the consortium best suited to developing the student’s specific research interests and other skills.

Programme Outcomes

• To understand key problems in European history within a comparative framework;
• To analyse key historical problems using primary sources in different languages;
• To assess different methodological approaches in the study of European history;
• To undertake original research, underpinned by critical thinking.