Historical Studies (Taught)

The information provided on this page was correct at the time of publication (November 2025). For complete and up-to-date information about this course, please visit the relevant University of Oxford course page via www.graduate.ox.ac.uk/ucas.

The Postgraduate Certificate in Historical Studies can be studied as a stand-alone course or form the first year of the MSt in Historical Studies. Students explore five themed units and complete a dissertation on a topic of their choice.

Course structure
The course is made up of five taught weekend units and three online modules.

There are five weekend units, during which supported learning will be provided in a variety of formats: presentations, tutor-led discussion, group discussion, and student presentations on prepared topics. During the final, Special Subject weekend (Unit 5), there will also be one to one tutorials with the dissertation supervisor.

You will have the opportunity to attend a wide range of lectures and research seminars organised by the University of Oxford’s History Faculty and other departments, faculties and centres within the University. The Humanities Division offers a wide range of graduate seminars, lectures and training and special events.

The department runs training sessions, a termly research seminar and dinner, an arts and humanities seminar series and social events.

It is anticipated that you will need to spend about 14-16 hours per week in private study; as you will work on the online modules, read widely, and research and prepare your assignments and dissertation.