Master of Arts - History and Heritage

The MA in History and Heritage explores how history continues to shape contemporary society, drawing on theories and approaches from disciplines such as anthropology, sociology, creative arts, literary studies, psychology, science and medicine, and geography. The programme also develops professional and entrepreneurial skills by examining the role of history and heritage in a range of 21st-century industries, from museums and archives to marketing and urban planning.

The course equips students with both intellectual and professional skills for leadership roles in public history, heritage, and cultural industries. It is set in a historic city and county, surrounded by visitor attractions including country houses, museums, and sites of industrial archaeology. Students build networks and undertake real-world projects through links with local, national, and international heritage organisations. The teaching team comprises dedicated historians who are published experts in their fields. Optional modules, research projects, and self-directed study allow students to focus on case studies and topics of particular interest. The MA also provides an opportunity to develop original research in modern and/or public history through an Independent Study module, making it excellent preparation for doctoral study.

Derbyshire’s rich historical landscape provides an ideal setting for studying public history and heritage, from aristocratic estates to the archaeology of the Industrial Revolution. The programme’s links with heritage, creative, and cultural industries give students access to public history and heritage producers, including local authorities, charitable trusts, businesses, community groups, and private individuals. This exposure offers practical experience of the legal, commercial, and management challenges within the sector.

Partnerships include organisations with international profiles, offering valuable opportunities for work experience and networking. Key sites include the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site, Derby’s Museum of Making, and grand country houses such as Kedleston Hall and Chatsworth House. Employability skills are embedded throughout the course, fostering enterprise, independence, and confidence for pursuing careers in heritage, creative, and cultural industries and beyond. Students benefit from engagement with networks such as the European Network for Public History Masters and the Heritage Alliance, England’s largest coalition of heritage interests, to broaden contacts, knowledge exchange, and professional experience.