University of Aberdeen United Kingdom

History and Legal Studies, MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Explore the dynamic intersection of human society and its legal frameworks with the MA History and Legal Studies at the University of Aberdeen. This undergraduate degree is designed for intellectually curious students eager to understand how historical contexts shape legal systems and how law, in turn, influences societal development. You will delve into the evolution of UK, European, and international law, examining contemporary issues and controversial topics through a rich historical lens. By combining a deep understanding of historical analysis with a thorough grounding in legal principles, you will develop a unique perspective essential for navigating complex societal challenges.

This full-time, on-campus programme spans four years, offering a progressive curriculum that builds your expertise year by year. You will engage with core modules in legal systems and the foundations of private law, alongside historical studies ranging from 'Making History' to specialised 'Special Subject' courses in your final year. The course culminates in a significant dissertation, allowing you to undertake in-depth research in either history or legal studies. You will graduate from the University of Aberdeen with a versatile skillset, prepared for diverse career paths in law, public policy, heritage, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA program offers a comprehensive exploration of both history and legal studies. Students will engage with foundational legal concepts, delve into various historical periods and themes, and develop critical thinking skills. The curriculum progresses through compulsory modules in the initial years, covering essential aspects of legal systems and historical methodologies, before allowing for specialization in later years through a range of elective subjects and culminating in a dissertation.

1 YEAR 1

Legal System Compulsory
Foundations of Private Law Compulsory
Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen Compulsory
Making History Compulsory

2 YEAR 2

Criminal Law
A World Full of Law: Legal Cultures Before the Age of Exploration
Eu Institutions and Law
The Law of Property
Public International Law
Administrative Law and Civil Liberties
Contract
Foundations of Common Law with English Criminal Law
Delict and Unjustified Enrichment
UK Constitutional Law
Commercial Organisations and Insolvency
Family Law
Introduction to Legal Theory
Succession and Trusts

3 YEAR 3

Thinking History Compulsory

4 YEAR 4

Dissertation in History
Dissertation in Legal Studies
History in Practice II
Special Sub: Enlightenment Compared: Ireland, Scotland, Central Europe
Special Subject: History of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Special Sub: the Child as Subject in the British World
Special Sub: Court Society in Late Medieval Europe (C. 1300 – C. 1500)
Special Sub: European Constitutional Monarchies in the Long 19th Century
Special Sub.: Britain and Revolutionary Russia 1917-1924
Special Subject: Myths of the North

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,115.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 112,461.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,256.00 - USD 3,867.00
Transport USD 725.00 - USD 1,009.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,386.00 - USD 1,732.00
Estimated Total USD 4,367.00 - USD 6,262.00

Living cost estimates are based on Old Aberdeen campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Animation & Visual EffectsCorporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignDefense & Military SecurityFilm & Television ProductionIntelligence & InvestigationsMusic & Performing ArtsSports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital ContentTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Brodies LLP

Burnees Paul LLP

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

National History Museum

National Trust

Why Study History and Legal Studies, MA at University of Aberdeen

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Aberdeen in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about History and Legal Studies, MA at University of Aberdeen

Can I work while studying?

International students in this program can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can submit scores from tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, a Duolingo overall score of 105 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as legal analysts, historians, policy advisors, or compliance officers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program offers a unique combination of historical analysis and legal studies, focusing on UK, European, and international law. It prepares graduates for diverse career paths by equipping them with critical legal knowledge and transferable skills.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the History and Legal Studies MA program is September. Ensure you apply ahead of time to secure your place.
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