Distance Learning

Undergraduate

Medieval and Early Modern Scotland explores the history of Scotland and how it was transformed

Key Facts

This programme provides the most comprehensive learning in Scottish History that can be done from your own home. With tutor-supported distance learning, the University of Dundee has brought together the world's leading academic historians of Scottish History from over ten universities in North America, Britain and Germany to provide a sophisticated and integrated programme.

You Will Study

At undergraduate level Dundee offers two modules, ‘Medieval and Early Modern Scotland 1100-1707’ and ‘Modern Scottish History: 1707 to the Present’ as part of an Open University undergraduate degree.

Teaching Environment

When you enrol, you will be allocated a course tutor who will mark your course assignments and will be available to give help and advice on the course. All our tutors are specialists in Scottish History and we carefully monitor their marking to ensure consistency.

We offer two optional Saturday study days for each course, held in Dundee in March/April and June. They provide a chance to hear leading specialists in Scottish History and to meet tutors and other students in tutorials.

Professional Recognition

A history degree is an extremely valuable qualification. It provides a high level of training in information handling, analytical skills and critical thinking which are highly sought-after by a wide range of employers.

Career Opportunities

Our graduates are highly sought after by employers for their ability to analyse and question recorded data. We have graduates who are British Ambassadors, managers of historical tour companies and authors of history books.

Postgraduate

The Civil Wars Experienced, Britain & Ireland 1638-1661

Key Facts

The postgraduate course in Scottish History by distance learning is an innovative educational programme delivered in an interactive online environment, allowing flexible part time study, and designed for UK and international students.

You Will Study

The course consists of a number of core modules and options.

To complete the degree you must study all three core modules. It is recommended that you study the module ‘Interpretations of Scottish History’ first.

• The introductory module ‘Interpretations of Scottish History’ will introduce you to the main themes and interpretations of Scottish history and will compare some of the more ‘popular’ interpretations of Scottish history in the media and film, with academic interpretations of Scottish history.
• The core module ‘Historical Sources and Research Planning’ is designed to introduce you to the main sources available for students of Scottish History. It will cover topics such as government and diplomatic papers, journals, diaries and private papers, drawings, plans and buildings, oral history, and film and television.
• The final core module ‘Introduction to Historical Theory' is designed to provide you with some of the core skills you need to conduct research and write your dissertation, from how to construct a full bibliography for your research and how to make the best use of archives, to how to provide full references and footnotes for academic writing. It will also provide you with a detailed examination of the range of online resources and other bibliographic tools that are available to you for your studies.

You must also study three of the five optional modules. These modules are designed to provide you with a detailed understanding of the main approaches and issues on specific aspects of Scottish history.

• Cultural Exchange: Scotland and Europe
• Scotland before the Union
• Scotland and Empire, 1707-1900
• Scotland in the Twentieth Century
• The Scottish Diaspora

Teaching Environment

The course gives students the ability to study at home at their own pace. For a typical module you will be required to read a major book on an aspect of Scottish history every two weeks. In between, you will be exposed to source material and journal articles relevant to the topic. As you read and progress through the module you will complete a weekly module journal which will allow your tutors to give you regular feedback on your progress.

You will also interact with other students on the module and with tutors through online discussion boards and through discussion rooms. You will also have access to your tutors through e-mail and they will hold regular online office hours to answer any questions that you may have.

Professional Recognition

A history degree is an extremely valuable qualification. It provides a solid foundation in analytical skills which are highly sought after by employers.

Career Opportunities

Our recent graduates have gone into the media, teaching, politics, business, finance, the diplomatic service, and many other dynamic high-earning careers.

What Our Students Say

Exceptionally helpful feedback and supportive encouragement.

Quickly returned essays with constructive comments.

A fascinating overview of the subject

Long live the Dundee/Open University course in Scottish History!