Programme structure

The online programme can be taken full-time or part-time, with study commencing in September. You will study at your own pace, completing the degree in one to six years. You can exit the programme at any stage with the qualification you have earned, which is determined by the number of credits successfully achieved at the required level (180 credits are required to complete the MSc). Many of our students balance their studies alongside other commitments. The programme’s flexible structure supports this, allowing part-time students the opportunity to take fallow semesters, in which you remain on the programme but do not register for courses.

There are two 11 week semesters each year, September to December and January to April. There are no courses offered from May to September to ensure that you are only taught by academic staff, who use the summer months to pursue their research.

Graduates receive identical degree certificates to that of on-campus students. Degree certificates do not state that the programme is delivered online.

Why is the final qualification an MSc rather than an MA?

The ancient Scottish universities (including the University of Edinburgh) traditionally offer the Master of Arts (MA) as an undergraduate academic degree. Our postgraduate history degrees are designated as the Master of Science (MSc) to distinguish them from undergraduate degrees.

Studying for a single course

Studying a single course will take a semester.

Studying for the Postgraduate Certificate

The certificate is expected to take a semester to complete via full-time study, or up to three semesters part time.

Studying for the Postgraduate Diploma

The diploma is expected to take two semesters to complete via full-time study, or up to six semesters part time.

Studying for the MSc

The full MSc is expected to take a year to complete via full-time study, 2 years part-time study or between 2-6 years flexible study. You must complete all requirements for the Diploma before undertaking the dissertation.