History MRes

University of Liverpool

Combine training in historical research skills with tailored theoretical and methodological approaches aligned to your proposed research project. Under expert supervision, you'll produce a major piece of independent research that makes an original contribution to knowledge and offers ideal preparation for PhD study.IntroductionThis MRes provides a personalised and focused introduction to postgraduate research. It will enable you to develop into an independent researcher and produce an original research project, supported by an expert historian.The programme provides intensive preparation for doctoral research and your future career. We’ll guide you through the research process, equipping you with transferable skills, including critical thinking, project management, written and verbal communication, and problem solving.Training in research methodologies will be tailored to historical research and your specific research proposal. You’ll co-design a bespoke reading list and individual assessment tasks in preparation for a substantial piece of research.You’ll discover how to develop a research proposal, identify relevant evidence and sources, plan and undertake the research, and analyse and present your findings. Key influences on historical research will be explored and you’ll engage with current historiographical and theoretical debates.You’ll be supported by academic experts in the Department of History. Our team of MRes supervisors are actively engaged in research that encompasses political, social, cultural, economic, military and diplomatic history. This spans Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and the Americas. Specialisms include contemporary cultural and social history, international slavery, eighteenth century history, and medieval and renaissance studies.Who is this course for?You should have a very well-developed research proposal that has already been discussed and approved by your prospective supervisor in the Department of History prior to submitting your application.What you'll learnMajor theoretical influences on historical research and their applications to current research methodologiesAn understanding of the nature, location and accessibility of primary sourcesHow to design a robust research proposalHow to identify relevant evidence