English Local History (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.

This two-year part-time MSc course is designed to combine a systematic training in historical research techniques with the study of a range of major local historical themes and the chance to undertake an individually-researched dissertation.

This course is not accepting applications this cycle, but is expected to reopen to applications in the next admission cycle. The information on this page has been retained to provide an indication of the course content in previous years. Fees and costs are only valid for the year which is shown and will usually increase annually. The University is under no obligation to deliver the same course in the future. This page may be updated at any time prior to the course re-opening to applications.

The MSc draws on knowledge and skills acquired in many years of providing specialist classes in local history, and profits from close links with local, social and economic historians elsewhere in the University. The course will be relevant to potential or practising teachers, archaeologists, environmental planners, archivists, librarians, museum professionals and teachers in adult education as well as to dedicated researchers pursuing the subject in its own right.

Course structure
At the start of the course, you will prepare for a qualifying test, which covers concepts and methods. You will also receive an introduction to research in local history.

Teaching will comprise two compulsory topics on sources, methods and foundations of English local history. You will also take two advanced topics, which are chosen from a range of specific themes in English local history.