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Postgraduate degrees in eighteenth century studies

Join the most established interdisciplinary centre for the study of the long 18th century (1650-1850) in the UK. Become part of a large and inclusive research community of scholars and students.

Why study the eighteenth century at York?

Study with us and you'll be welcomed into a lively and diverse research community. Our work is groundbreaking and multidisciplinary, fostering collaborations across the University.

Work with leading experts on a range of approaches to the 18th century. Explore topics across history, literature, archaeology and art history. Whether you're a taught Masters student or postgraduate researcher, we'll encourage you to develop your own insights on the topics most important to you.

You'll be based in the historic Grade II listed Heslington Hall. Masters students will have seminars here and postgraduate researchers can make use of dedicated workspaces. The 18th-century topiary garden and summerhouse provide an ideal backdrop to inspire you.

Beyond our campus, you’ll encounter Georgian buildings and sites throughout the city of York. Step inside Fairfax House, a Georgian townhouse museum. Visit Elizabeth Montagu’s birthplace at Treasurer’s House. Follow Laurence Sterne’s footsteps to Mansion House on St. Helen’s Square.

Research degrees

Our postgraduate researchers are based in affiliate departments. We often co-supervise to support a collaborative research environment.

Or search all postgraduate research courses.

Scholarships and funding

Visiting students 

Spend up to a year in York as a visiting student from an international university.

A group of students socialising in Heslington Hall.
Learn from expert academics from highly ranked departments across York's Faculty of Arts and Humanities.
You'll be based in the historic Heslington Hall, an interdisciplinary hub on Campus West.
Our campus is home to the Borthwick Institute for Archives. The city also has a wealth of libraries, museums and collections.

Careers

  • There are opportunities for internships and volunteering at local 18th-century sites in the region, such as Beningbrough Hall and Fairfax House.
  • You'll have the chance to be part of the annual York Georgian Festival. Get involved in immersive workshops or public lectures about your work.
  • We can offer careers guidance, and discuss the options available both through the University careers service and our professional partnerships.

Accelerate your career

No matter what stage you're at, we can help you along your career journey.

Find out about our dedicated careers support for taught Masters and research degrees:

Two academics discussing 18th-century paintings.

Student stories

Hear what our students have to say about studying with us.

The MA Eighteenth Century Studies is great because of its broad range on a global scale. It's just such a long period of time to explore, almost like three Masters in one. It's a really supportive environment with top-tier academics and a lot of different researchers.

Nusrat, MA Eighteenth Century Studies. Watch Nusrat's vlog.

There is no better way – nor a more personally enriching one – to study this world than through the interdisciplinarity and connection that defines research in the Centre for Eighteenth Century Studies.
Cal, PhD English. Read Cal's blog post.

Next steps

Meet us
How to apply for a taught Masters
How to apply for a research degree
Scholarships and funding