
About this program
The comprehensive History programme at KU Leuven gives you the freedom to explore a variety of different historical approaches and time periods. Our internationally renowned staff will help you develop the skills and specialized knowledge needed to become a historian.
The MA of History at KU Leuven is the only English language history programme in Belgium. You are given the freedom to either specialise in a historical period or to focus on a particular historical theme, including media, religion, protest movements, post-colonialism, prostitution, science, migration, agriculture, politics.
Alongside taking a number of in-depth optional modules you will write an extensive and original historical thesis. You will be supported in the writing of your MA thesis by your supervisor, a research seminar and the MA of History Teaching Assistant.
The historians at Leuven pursue their research collaboratively within four research groups, including: Medieval History, Early Modern History, Cultural History Since 1750 and Modernity and Society, 1800-2000. As an MA student you will automatically become part of the same research group as your supervisor, each of which organise various events and outings throughout the year.
You also have the opportunity to take part in our internship programme and develop essential skills in a variety of sectors: heritage and culture, media, government and the political sector, as well as research.
Strengths
- You can design and fine-tune your own course, thanks to the flexible programme.
- You will gain valuable skills in a variety of sectors through the internship programme.
- You’ll have the opportunity to earn from international authorities on a diverse range of historical subjects.
KU Leuven Online Open Day
We are organising an online open day on Wednesday 1 December 2021 to inform students about our English-language programmes. Discover Europe’s most innovative university and learn more about our international programmes, admissions, housing and much more. For more information, google “KU Leuven Online Open Day”.
Admission requirements
A bachelor degree in History or a closely related subject. If you are unsure if this applies to you please contact us for further information
Does this course require proof of English proficiency?
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Scholarships & funding
Master of History Fellowship. Every year, the program awards a fellowship of € 2,500 to three students from outside the EEA. If you want to apply, please send your CV (including an academic transcript) and a cover letter to the Programme Director before 1 April.
For more scholarship information, please contact the programme staff
Tuition
Please consult our website for recent information on tuition fees.
Career paths
A Master of Arts in History will equip you with extensive experience in the field and a variety of transferable skills. Through different modes of study, you will learn to think, analyse, offer criticism, interpret, debate, draw conclusions and express them clearly in writing. You will become familiar with the basic tenets of many other important disciplines, such as law, political science and economics.
The Master of History at KU Leuven will also prepare you with the knowledge and competencies needed to explore a wider range of career opportunities in a variety of sectors, including government and politics, media and communications, heritage and cultural organisations, and a broad range of private companies. It will also provide excellent training for those who wish to pursue a PhD or further advanced education.
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About this institute

KU Leuven. Inspiring the Outstanding
KU Leuven is Europe’s most innovative university. Located in Belgium, it is dedicated to research, education, and service to society. KU Leuven is a founding member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU) and has a strong European and...
Why study at KU Leuven
A Highly Ranked University
According to international rankings, KU Leuven is among the best 100 universities in the world. Moreover, KU Leuven was ranked as most innovative university of Europe by Reuters four years in a row (2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019). All of KU Leuven’s disciplines proudly belong to the top 100 of their field. Scholars and researchers, teachers and visionaries, thinkers and makers all have their place in KU Leuven’s fertile intellectual habitat.
Most Innovative University in Europe
KU Leuven has been identified as Europe’s most innovative university for four years in a row by Reuters. By developing the most important drug against HIV, a new type of solar panel that converts oxygen into hydrogen and uncovering the secrets of Sagalassos, KU Leuven researchers have a profound impact on our everyday lives in nearly all fields of research. That innovative character is deeply embedded in the way we teach our students, by integrating relevant guest lectures, taking an Interdisciplinary approach and opening the most advanced research and education facilities.
A Comprehensive University
As a comprehensive university, KU Leuven offers a wide range of disciplines organized by 15 faculties. Each of these disciplines is ranked in the top 100 of its field according to the THE World University Rankings by subject. Half of the university’s faculties are even in the top 50 within their fields of study.
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KU Leuven
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