MA in History

What should be done with statues related to Europe's colonial past? How can historians help tackle problems within organizations? How do societies historically cope with crises, such as flooding or warfare?

All these questions apply historical knowledge and methods to present-day challenges, which is the core aim of the Master’s program History at the University of Groningen: to provide insight into current issues from a historical perspective with an emphasis on practical historical applications at an academic level.

The Master History consists of three tracks:

• History and Heritage Consultancy
• Politics, Organizations, and Learning Histories
• Un/sustainable Societies: Past, Present and Future

By choosing these tracks, you will be trained to curate a historical exhibition or to apply digital techniques in the field of heritage management, you can learn how to interpret and evaluate cross-border historical phenomena and formulate policy advice, or you can acquire the historical methods to analyze the consequences of processes of change in organizations and companies. The expertise of our experienced staff and experts from the field is reflected in (guest) lectures, internships, and practical assignments that bring historical knowledge and theory to life. By completing one of the tracks, you will be awarded a Master of Arts degree in History.

Why study this programme in Groningen?

• An academic humanities degree in History with a clear professional and societal relevance
• A unique emphasis on the practical application of historical knowledge and methodology
• Three tracks that focus on the necessary academic and professional skills to increase your employability in the professional field
• A variety of innovative teaching methods, such as seminars, methodological courses, placements, practical assignments etc.
• Tailor-made: design your own programme that meets your interests
• An international and pleasant study environment with many research resources

Year 1

Each Master's track is characterized by a flagship course and matching methodological courses that train you both in acquiring and applying historical knowledge. Another unique course in which you will participate in the Masterclass, which instructs you in various professional skills that enhance your employability. You will take research seminars to gain in-depth knowledge of specific historical themes, regions, periods, and methods. Apart from writing a Master's thesis, it is possible to graduate

Program options

• History and Heritage Consultancy (specialization)
• Politics, Organizations, and Learning Histories (specialization)
• Un/sustainable societies: Past, Present and Future (specialization)
• Master's Honours Programme (honors program)

Study abroad

• Studying abroad is optional

A study period abroad can be combined with the placement and/or the Master's final assignment. You could also follow a seminar at a university abroad.

Job prospects

After completing the Master's programme, you are able to think in a critical and problem-oriented way. You can process a large amount of information and present the outcomes with great clarity. Many historians find work in journalism, museums, at cultural organizations or in publishing. They can go into politics as well, or find jobs in governmental organizations or in business. Our Master's tracks have proven themselves for providing graduates the tools to find employment as:

• Journalist
• Editor
• Policy advisor or officer
• Officer European Parliament
• Head of educational services at a cultural institution
• Teacher
• Communications Advisor
• Editor and journalist in various media
• Researcher
• Manager in a business
• Curator at a cultural institution
• Advisor to businesses or government
• Coordinator in education, events and so forth