Queer History

Entry requirements

You should have (or expect to be awarded) an undergraduate degree of at least second class standard in any subject. Although a specialised background in history is not required, students with a background in Literature, Gender Studies, Sociology and Anthropology are welcome to apply.

You might also be considered if you aren’t a graduate or your degree is in an unrelated field, but have relevant experience and can show that you have the ability to work at postgraduate level.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The MA Queer History is a pioneering programme in one of the most exciting areas of historical enquiry, giving a voice to those who throughout much of history have been denied one.

Why study MA Queer History at Goldsmiths

• This is the world’s first postgraduate programme in Queer History. It engages with histories of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and other (LGBTQ+) people, identities and communities. It is innovative, creative, free-thinking, stimulating, diverse and challenging – everything that is distinctive about history at Goldsmiths.
• 'Queer' is an inclusive term, encompassing the complex experiences of sexuality and gender diversity across history. In the past, 'queer' has been used as a term of derision, but many today have reclaimed the term to capture the complexity of gender and sexuality.
• Adopting the Department’s thematic and interdisciplinary approach, the course explores the queer past across period, region, and theme from the early modern period to the present.
• You’ll develop your research skills and understanding of key debates and methods used by historians of the queer past.
• You will learn to interrogate past understandings of queer identity and experience. You will question binaries between heterosexual and homosexual, male and female and will learn about the contexts of queerness and issues of intersectionality.
• You will develop your own specific subject interests through a range of option courses, primary research, and a dissertation on a theme of personal interest.

Information for international students

If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification) of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0 to study this programme. If you need assistance with your English language, we offer a range of courses that can help prepare you for postgraduate-level study.

Fees and funding

Find out more about postgraduate fees and explore funding opportunities. If you're applying for funding, you may be subject to an application deadline.