PhD in European History

To study a PhD in European History is to investigate the incredibly diverse and complex past of the European continent. Focusing on a specific period, theme, case study or location, students will produce a dissertation of unique research that will contribute to the larger academic field.

What’s it like to do a PhD in European History?

PhD students of European History will spend the majority of their time finding and engaging with a range of primary sources. The conclusions that you’ll draw will then be contextualised within the wider secondary literature. There are many topics of study available, some examples include:

• Conflict in Europe
• Empire and nationhood
• Gender and sexuality
• Movement and migration
• The Enlightenment
• The Reformation
• The Renaissance

Students may also choose to research into a particular figure, group or defined period of time.

Most applicants will have to design and propose their own research project. Your chosen topic of study will then go on to form the basis for the final 75,000 word thesis. This will then be assessed and critiqued in an oral viva exam.

Entry requirements

To apply for a PhD in European History you will likely need a Masters degree in History or a similar subject such as Politics or Literature. Some institutions may consider applicants without a postgraduate degree if they can demonstrate prior academic success and extensive research experience.

Depending on your chosen topic you may need to prove a level of language proficiency, or be willing to enrol on a language course to be able to properly engage with the primary sources.

PhD in European History funding options

Most European History PhDs in the UK are funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). Their studentships cover full tuition costs and offer a tax-free living stipend and travel allowance. To apply for a studentship you must already have a confirmed place at a university.

Those applying for an advertised project might have different funding specifications. Make sure to check the details in the project outline to confirm what’s offered.

PhD funding for European History can be very competitive and so some students ‘self-fund’ their studies if they cannot secure a Research Council studentship. Many students work during their studies or rely on the UK government’s doctoral loan to manage the financial pressure of the degree. There are also many charities, trusts and national bodies that offer short-term financial support and grants depending on your topic of study, so make sure to do your research.

PhD in European History careers

A PhD in European History sets graduates up for a thriving career in many different fields. The most direct root would be to continue in academia undertaking research, teaching or a combination of the two. However, the transferable skills that you can gain throughout the PhD can also aid careers working in archives, museums, marketing, project management or even civil service.