Teaching and assessment for Scottish Historical Studies MA (Hons)

Our modules are based on the wide range of topics our staff are actively researching themselves. You will always study with a recognised expert.

We use a wide range of teaching methods, from lectures to small group discussions.

Most modules at Levels 1 and 2 have two lectures and one tutorial or workshop group each week. This may vary at Levels 3 and 4 where you will have fewer lectures and more small group discussions per week.

Use of archives, both physical and online, will allow you to develop your research skills, including paleography (reading old handwriting), database analysis, project planning, and team work.

Study trips, including trips to local archives and museums, are an important part of the course. The student-run History Society organises a wide range of social events, study skills sessions, and an annual history careers workshop.

Assessments are carried out through coursework and exams, and vary in type and weighting from module to module.

Methods of assessment include:

• essays
• presentations
• source exercises
• wiki projects
• journals/blogs
• exams

In Level 4 you will apply the skills you have learned to write a dissertation on a topic of your own choice.

At Levels 1 and 2 you'll also study additional humanities or social sciences subjects, such as economics, English, or philosophy.