History PhD / MPhil
Research in History is characterised by its breadth and diversity. The interests of our staff and PhD students span the medieval, early modern and modern periods, encompassing political, social, cultural, economic, military and diplomatic history, and ranging geographically across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and the Americas.
Why study with us?
My doctoral research has been completed with the unwavering support, guidance and encouragement of my supervisors. In the History department, I feel part of an academic community where colleagues are keen to hear about my progress and offer helpful advice.
Sophie Jones - History PhD student
100%
of our research environment is classified as 'world leading' or 'internationally excellent' in the latest Research Excellence Framework (2021)
70%
of research activity deemed 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' REF (2014).
100%
of our research impact is classified as 'outstanding' (4*) or 'very considerable' (3*) in the latest Research Excellence Framework (2021)
Overview
We pride ourselves on both our international reputation for research and our innovative and student-centred teaching. Our PhD students play a central role in our research culture. We offer a stimulating and friendly environment in which to engage in the study of the past.
Research in History is characterised by its breadth and diversity. The interests of our staff and PhD students span the medieval, early modern and modern periods, encompassing political, social, cultural, economic, military and diplomatic history, and ranging geographically across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and the Americas. There are active seminar programmes linked to our research centres. These provide an opportunity for staff and postgraduates to present their work and engage with current research by visiting speakers from universities in Britain and further afield.
Facilities
The University of Liverpool has excellent research facilities within the Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences. For postgraduate researchers, these include designated shared office space and access to a vast repository of sociolinguistic journals (including e-journal), through the Sydney Jones Library.
As a postgraduate researcher at the University of Liverpool, you will become part of the Liverpool Doctoral College. The LDC supports all postgraduate researchers across the University to thrive in their doctoral programme with our dedicated team of esteemed supervisors, professional services staff, and student peers, ensuring that our students succeed in their studies.
Study options and fees
The fees below reflect one year of study during the 2024/25 academic year
| MPhil / PhD | Duration | UK students | International Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full time | 2-4 years | £4,786 |
|
| Part time | 4-6 years | £2,393 |
|
The fees stated in the table above exclude potential research support fees also known as ‘bench fees’. You will be notified of any fee which may apply in your offer letter.
* Please note that if you are undertaking a PhD within the Faculty of Science and Engineering the fee you pay, Band A or Band B, will reflect the nature of your research project. Some research projects incur a higher fee than others e.g. if you are required to undertake laboratory work. You will be informed of the fee for your programme in your offer letter.
^ Self-funded, full-time international students studying a PhD programme classified as Band A will receive a £2,000 reduction in their fees for the first year only.
Entry requirements
Applications are welcome from suitably qualified candidates who wish to undertake research leading to a PhD in History on either a full- or part-time basis. We ordinarily expect candidates for entry to our PhD programme to hold a first degree in the First or 2:1 class and a Master’s degree (preferably pass of 65% or higher) in a relevant subject area from a UK university, or EU/overseas qualifications of an equivalent standard.
English language requirements
| IELTS Academic requirement - SELT and non-SELT | Overall 6.5 no band below 6.0 |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT requirement | Minimum 88 overall with L 19 W 19 R 19 and S 20 |
| C1 Advanced CAE requirement | Overall 176 with no less than 169 in any paper |
| Trinity College London, Integrated Skills in English (ISE II) | ISE II with an overall pass with merit in components |
| Cambridge IGCSE as a First Language | Grade C |
| Cambridge IGCSE as a Second Language | Grade B |
| Cambridge English Level 3 Certificate in ESOL International (Proficiency) | Overall 176 with 169 in components |
| Cambridge English Level 3 Certificate in ESOL International (Advanced) | Overall 176 with 169 in components |
| Cambridge English Level 2 Certificate in ESOL International (Advanced) | Overall 176 with 169 in components |
Additional requirements
Individual consideration is given to mature students with significant and relevant experience and with professional qualifications. PhD students are allowed to progress into their next year of study if the assessed work at the time of the Annual Progress Report is at appropriate PhD level. Students registered for an MPhil also have to satisfactorily complete an Annual Progress Report.
How to apply
Research degree applications can be made online. You'll also need to ensure that you have funding to cover all fees.
Applications are open all year round.
Find a supervisor
View supervisors in this area
Need help finding a supervisor? Contact us
- HLC Enquiries
- Email: HLC-PGR@liverpool.ac.uk
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Find a scholarship
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