Contemporary History

4th in the UK for our research impact in History in REF 2021 (Times Higher Education)

=20th in the UK for History (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024)

About the course
Our innovative and diverse MA focuses on key themes in the history of Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East from the late 19th century onwards. Some of the themes that you may explore include:
- the emergence of modern human rights

- the impact of the ‘cultural turn’ and identity politics on the discipline of history

- the role of community archives, digital resources and family histories in the creation of ‘people’s history’ and ‘public history’

- historical explanations for the extraordinary violence that afflicted the world in the first half of the 20th century.

You’re introduced to historical methodology and practice – especially the ‘cultural turn’ and ‘global turn’ in historiography – and how they might be used in devising and researching your individual research project.

You can also take part in our world-leading work on contemporary Britain. Our approach places everyday experiences within their social, cultural, economic and political contexts. We draw on the unparalleled resources of the renowned Mass Observation Archive. We are also home to innovative research centres, including the Centre for German-Jewish Studies, the Centre for Intellectual History and the Centre for World Environmental History. You’ll immerse yourself in the field’s literature and integrate the historical perspective with that of other social sciences.

As a graduate, you’ll be prepared to undertake doctoral research and have the ability to critically understand the modern world – valuable skills for a variety of careers and employment opportunities.

About Sussex
Our courses, research, culture and campus aim to stimulate, excite and challenge. From scientific discovery to global policy, from student welfare to career development, Sussex innovates and takes a lead. And today, in every part of society and across the world, you'll find someone from Sussex making an original and valuable contribution.

Location
Study on our beautiful, green campus on the edge of the South Downs National Park and just minutes from the vibrant seaside city of Brighton & Hove. We’re near to Gatwick airport and just over an hour from London.