Maritime History

What is maritime history and why does it matter? Study for our MA Maritime History at the University of Plymouth and you will have the opportunity to grapple with these and other key debates in history. Explore five centuries of maritime history from the Spanish Armada of 1588 through to questions around the continued importance of seapower and navies in the modern world. Our MA allows students to develop their skills as maritime historians while working with leading experts in the field to chart their own course and follow their research interests. We offer an exciting range of MA module options and skills modules that will equip students with problem-solving and analytical abilities that will help them to pursue further study or for the world of work. The MA is capped off by with a dissertation that allows students to undertake in depth research into a topic that interests them and to showcase the skills they have learned during the programme.

Maritime History is more than just sitting in the classroom. Plymouth’s long and fascinating maritime history makes it the perfect location for an MA in Maritime History. Plymouth has been a key port for exploration and naval warfare since the 1500s and many important maritime sites and memorials remain in the city. Being based in Britain’s Ocean City enables our students to get to grips with a number of different aspects of maritime history. Students will have the opportunity to work with local and national archives and museums, conduct oral history interviews, visit maritime and naval heritage sites, and learn digital history skills. The university’s excellent maritime history resources in Charles Seale Hayne Library and other facilities will allow students to fully realise their potential as maritime historians.