The Department of Historical Studies at the University of Cape Town invites applications for its MA / MSocSc in History by coursework. This innovative programme is designed to teach the analytical and interpretative skills favored by historians, as well as the means to communicate complex ideas in compelling and effective ways to larger audiences. Workshops on podcasting and popular writing 
are integrated into the curriculum. Students choose from an exciting and diverse array of courses, conduct independent research in a supportive environment, and work closely with the Department’s staff as well as practitioners, activists, and experts in order to produce work that has direct impact on the wider university community, as well as the broader public.

How is the degree structured?

This is a two-year programme. The curriculum consists of one compulsory core course, three elective courses chosen from a broad range of options, and a minor dissertation. The dissertation, on a topic of students’ choosing, need not follow a conventional format. Students can choose to develop to produce a podcast, create new history curricula, develop a history app, compose a graphic history book, transcribe and annotate oral community narratives, or curate an exhibition. All will conform to UCT’s vigorous standards of evaluation, but will have the potential to reach audiences beyond the campus. The programme is particularly supportive of projects that develop skills and research expertise in historically disadvantaged African-language archives, and uses these skills and research in creative ways.

Who should apply?

The MA/MSoc is aimed at those who have recently completed Honours in history and related disciplines, as well as those would like to acquire historical research skills and familiarity with trends within the field. Rights activists, media employees, creative and performance artists, heritage and tourism personnel, genealogists, commissioned researchers, filmmakers, nonfiction writers, among others, are strongly encouraged to apply. Students need not have elaborate previous academic training as historians.

Is there funding available?

UCT offers a range of competitive scholarships.

Applications close 15 November. To apply, go to http://applyonline.uct.ac.za/. We’d be delighted to answer your questions: please do not hesitate to contact us.