Course summary

The MPhil in Modern European History focuses on the study of continental Europe from roughly the middle of the 18th century to the present day. The course offers an introduction to key themes and selected topics in modern European history, as well as intensive methodological and historiographical training in the social, cultural, political and economic history of modern Europe. Taught options vary from year to year but have recently included courses on the 1848 revolutions, Stalinism, the revolt of 1968, the modern Mediterranean, the Cold War, Fascism, and migration in 20th century Europe. The MPhil in Modern European History combines taught and research elements over a nine-month full-time programme. The taught elements include three modules, as well as training workshops and seminars, and all students will also complete a long piece of independent research (15,000–20,000 words). Students will usually need a reading knowledge of the language of the country they wish to study, though this is not a formal requirement, especially for topics with a transnational focus. Throughout the course, students will be individually supervised by an expert in the field, who will guide their research towards the completion of an original historical subject chosen and developed by them. In addition, students will benefit from Cambridge’s vibrant research environment in modern European history, attending and participating in guest talks, workshops, research seminars and other events throughout the year. The course is designed for those who have completed degrees in which history is the main or at least a substantial component and who want to consolidate their knowledge of modern European history. It is particularly appropriate for those who may wish to continue on to a PhD, at Cambridge or elsewhere, but it is also well-suited for those who seek simply to explore modern European history at a deeper level. It is expected that this will be the normal means by which those without an appropriate master’s degree from elsewhere will prepare for the PhD degree in modern European history at Cambridge. Cambridge graduates in modern European history go on to enjoy successful careers in many fields within and beyond academic life, including law, journalism, and the administration of NGOs and international organisations.