Master's Programme in Early Modern History

Looking back on the period 1350–1850, we are often struck by phenomena that may seem distant or unfamiliar: witch trials, horrific forms of torture, and spectacular displays of power. At times, the past can appear to be a foreign country.

At the same time, we can recognise many of the defining features of the modern world, such as the emergence of stronger states, global trade, and new patterns of consumption. Studying early modern history, therefore, means seeking to understand cultures and societies that are at once familiar and foreign. This Master's Programme aims to help you develop such an understanding.

The programme provides advanced knowledge of the early modern world, with a particular focus on Europe, while also drawing attention to developments in other parts of the world. By combining broad historical perspectives with current methods and theories, you will deepen your understanding of the social, political, economic, and cultural transformations that shaped the period.

During the programme, you will:

• acquire advanced knowledge of early modern history;
• develop your research and academic writing skills, and learn to analyse different types of primary sources;
• be introduced to digital methods and databases; and
• have the opportunity to undertake an internship.

The programme concludes with the writing of a scholarly thesis based on your own research. You will present your thesis at an annual departmental conference, which includes one or more invited international participants.

Student Profile

Students on the programme enjoy reading, analysing, and discussing historical questions. You are motivated and willing to take significant responsibility for your own education. You enjoy working with historical sources and archival materials. The programme is well suited to students who wish to engage with ongoing research and leading scholars in the field, and who may be considering pursuing doctoral studies in the future.

Career

Graduates with a Master's degree in history will be employable in a wide variety of occupations. It provides you with a good basis for advanced positions in secondary and higher education, and also for employment within:

• enhancing cultural heritage in archives, museums and libraries
  
• journalism
• international organisations
• tourism
  
• personnel management
• civil service at local, regional and national levels

A Master's degree in history is a prerequisite for a successful career in historical research. Many graduates with a Master's degree in history from Uppsala University have been admitted by a PhD programme in Sweden or abroad. This includes the universities of Alberta, Budapest, Cambridge, Lund, Seoul, Sheffield, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Uppsala University.

Other graduates work at, for example, Radio Free Europe, The National Swedish Museums of Military History, and The Swedish National Heritage Board. Job titles include editor, programme coordinator and administrator.

Content

During the first semester, you will take two compulsory courses in Early Modern history, one course in historical theory and one course in historical narration. During the second semester, you will take two compulsory courses in Early Modern History and one course in digital history and start working on your Master's thesis.

During the third semester, you will continue working on your thesis, take a course in historical methodology, and choose from a range of elective courses. You also have the opportunity to undertake an internship as part of the elective component of the programme. The fourth and final semester is devoted entirely to the completion of your Master's thesis.

Courses within the programme

See the programme outline for courses within the programme.

Learning experience

The specific forms of teaching and assessment vary across courses within the Master's Programme in Early Modern History. Generally, teaching takes the form of lectures, seminars, and thesis supervision. Assessment is usually based on individual oral and written work. Requirements for class participation also vary across courses.

You are expected to take greater responsibility for your learning as the programme progresses and the thesis should reflect your ability to critically, independently, and creatively formulate and solve problems based on knowledge and skills acquired within the programme. In addition to interacting with other students in the programme, you will have the opportunity to study alongside students enrolled in other Master's programmes in history. The language of instruction is English.

Degree

The programme leads to a Master of Arts (120 credits) with History as the main field of study.