Second World War Studies: Conflict, Societies, Holocaust MA

The Second World War attracts more academic, media and public interest than any other event in history, and it is an integral part of school and further/higher education curricula. This programme will enable you to study the subject in detail, to update your knowledge, and to become familiar with the use of personal accounts, including interviews and testimonies. You will be taught by experts in the field, and you will carry out your own research in your favourite area.

You will study in depth some of the key issues in the military, political, and social history of the Second World War, such as strategy, diplomacy and politics of Axis and Allied forces, the war in the air, the victory campaign in the West, and the war in the East, including life under German occupation, the fate of societies under the conditions of total war, and last but not least, the Holocaust. Students will be eligible for a Postgraduate Certificate Second World War Studies: Conflict, Societies, Holocaust after completing their first year of study. Students who complete the whole course will be eligible for the full award.

What skills will you gain?

At the end of this course you will be able to:

• Demonstrate critical and analytical understanding of key issues and debates in the history of the Second World War and Holocaust.
• Demonstrate the ability to negotiate, design and undertake independent research based on primary sources.
• Exercise critical, evaluative and analytical skills in relation to historiographical debates and sources.
• Communicate effectively at an appropriate level for a Masters programme.

Career path

Successful completion of the course will enhance your career prospects and could lead to a specialised career in museums, education, armed forces, or as a battlefield guide, along with more general arts-related careers.

It will be particularly relevant to researchers, teachers, journalists, political and central government professionals, civil servants, military professionals, charity and campaign workers. Attainment of the MA degree could also lead to doctoral research.

Students need to have a 2:1 in a relevant degree is desirable, but applicants with other qualifications and non-graduates will be considered on individual merits.