European Expansion and Globalisation (research)
| Specialisation of: | History (research) |
|---|---|
| Degree: | Master of Arts in History (research) |
| Mode of Study: | Full-time |
| Duration: | 2 years |
| Start date: | September, February |
| Language of instruction: | English. Classes for which reading knowledge of Dutch is required may be taught in Dutch. |
| Location: | Leiden |
| Croho/isat code: | 60139 |
If you opt for a Master of Arts in History and cherish a truly open international academic atmosphere you should consider the specialisation History of European Expansion and Globalisation. This programme explores the dynamic interaction between civilisations in global history. We explore the question how worldwide political, economic, cultural and religious contacts have shaped processes of regional identity- and state-formation. The programme yields a strong comparative and connective perspective on transnational processes such as imperialism, colonialism, islamisation, modernisation and globalisation.
Apart from this global, panoramic perspective, this specialisation offers intensive practical and in-depth training in the investigation of primary sources by the best scholars in the field. Due to the international appeal of the Leiden research- and scholarship-programme Cosmopolis you will be part of a truly international community of students and scholars.
Programme
Although the main focus of the programme is on your chosen specialisation, the programme also includes a number of courses enabling students to acquire a better understanding of theories on historical processes, historical debates and methodology of historical research. In the first semester, you will follow a course in historical methodology, in the second semester a course in historiography. Both courses are taught by first-rate instructors and address problems and issues highly relevant throughout your study.
Once you have selected your specialisation, the remaining programme has the following structure:
Introductory course
The introductory course is taught in the form of an intensive literature seminar, in which you will discuss recent insights and issues in colonial history, world history or in the various area studies of Asia, Africa and the Americas. The literature seminar is worth 10 ECTS
Research seminars
You will follow two research seminars where you will carry out research on the basis of original source materials or published documents. Each research seminar is worth 10 ECTS
Tutorial
The tutorial is the mainstay of the research master’s as it offers intensive, eye-to-eye discussions with one of Leiden’s many specialists in world-history, colonial history or area studies. During the tutorial you will explore the field and determine the subject and research question of your thesis. The tutorial is worth 10 ECTS.
Optional courses
You will also follow a number of optional courses, worth up to a total of 20 ECTS. These may comprise courses offered at any department of Leiden University or at another Dutch university. In many cases you are advised to follow these courses abroad.
Thesis
The programme concludes with a final exam and a thesis. Together these are worth 40 ECTS. ± 250 woorden
The main aim of the programme is to ensure that after graduation, you are able to function as a junior academic researcher — either in a semi-academic position or at a university. You will be able to solve complex academic problems independently, critically and creatively, and report on these results with clarity both in writing and verbally. You will be qualified to continue on to PhD research.
