PhD Stuart History

Program Overview

The PhD in Stuart History at the University of Buckingham is an advanced research degree that focuses on the period of Stuart rule in England and Ireland from 1603 to 1714. Students explore a broad range of topics, including social, religious, political, and cultural history, and receive guidance from expert faculty. The program emphasizes independent research and writing, culminating in a thesis of 70,000-80,000 words. Graduates are equipped with transferable research and writing skills valuable for academic and non-academic careers.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• The PhD in Stuart History is an advanced research degree focusing on the period of Stuart rule in England and Ireland from 1603 to 1714, encompassing the Civil War, the Republic, and the "long" 17th century.
• It aims to prepare students for independent and original research, culminating in a thesis and oral examination.
• Students can complete the program in 3 years (full-time) or 6 years (part-time).

Outline:

• Students explore a broad range of topics, including social, religious, political, and cultural history of Stuart Britain.
• Theses have covered topics like Anglo-French relations, the Earl of Warwick's career, and the financial underpinnings of British government after the "Glorious Revolution".
• Students receive guidance in defining their thesis topic and modifying it during the first year.
• The program emphasizes independent research and writing, valuable skills for both academic and non-academic careers.

Assessment:

• Students are assessed based on the quality and originality of their research culminating in a thesis of 70,000-80,000 words.
• The thesis must demonstrate familiarity with the subject, sources, and authorities, critical thinking, and an original contribution to knowledge.
• Students also participate in research seminars, workshops, and the Humanities Research Institute's Research Days to share their work and receive feedback.

Teaching:

• Students are supported by two supervisors, a primary supervisor for regular guidance and a secondary supervisor for occasional consultation.
• The faculty includes experts in Stuart history:
• Professor John Adamson, Director of the Humanities Research Institute: Political and religious history, royal court, Britain and Europe, social and political role of nobility, art and politics, the Civil War.
• Mr. Paul Lay: Britain and Venice, the Interregnum, Cromwellian Protectorate, political culture of 17th century England.
• Dr. Sean Kelsey: Politics, army during the Civil War, political culture of the English Commonwealth.
• Dr. David Scott: Parliament in the 17th century, factional politics, rise of political parties, nobility, Royalism, British empire.
• Mr. Adrian Tinniswood, OBE: Tudor and Stuart country house, social history of gentry, early-modern piracy, royalist Verney family, Rainborow family, Sir Christopher Wren, Royal Society.
• Students attend seminars and workshops tailored to their research interests and receive guidance on their research progress through annual reviews.

Careers:

• The program equips graduates with transferable research and writing skills valuable for academic and non-academic careers.
• Career paths can include research, academia, publishing, heritage management, museum curation, journalism, or public policy.
• Graduates can also apply these skills in diverse professional settings.

Other:

• The University offers scholarships and bursaries for qualified students.
• Students can begin their studies in September, January, or April.

Start Type 1st Year Total cost Sep 2024 Full-time (3 Years) UK £8,267 £24,800 INT £14,500 £43,500 Sep 2024 Part-time (6 Years) UK £4,133 £24,800 INT £7,250 £43,500 Jan 2025 Full-time (3 Years) UK £8,267 £24,800 INT £14,500 £43,500 Jan 2025 Part-time (6 Years) UK £4,133 £24,800 INT £7,250 £43,500 Apr 2025 Full-time (3 Years) UK £8,267 £24,800 INT £14,500 £43,500 Apr 2025 Part-time (6 Years) UK £4,133 £24,800 INT £7,250 £43,500