Maritime Historical Studies

Throughout the Maritime Historical Studies MPhil/PhD programme from The University of Exeter, you will work closely with your supervisors to develop, investigate and write-up a project at the cutting edge of historical research.

The Maritime Historical Studies Maritime Historical Studies MPhil/PhD programme from The University of Exeter The University of Exeter staff research political, economic, social, cultural, religious, medical, maritime, military, humanitarian, environmental and international history. We range in time from the early medieval period to the late 20th century. We have particular strengths in the history of Britain and continental Europe, but also focus on the history of the United States, Africa, India, China and Latin America. Our PhD programmes are taught at both Streatham and Penryn, and supervision can be offered across both campuses.

Key facts

• Our research centres are focal points of our research environment for both staff and PGR students, organising seminar series, workshops and research events throughout the academic year where postgraduate students meet with staff and peers to learn, discuss and present research.
• A summary of our main areas of research are listed below. The History Research webpages provide more comprehensive details about current research projects. Details on individual staff research interests and publications can be found on the History staff profiles pages.
• Our PhD students are funded by organisations including the Arts and Humanities Research Council, Economic and Social Research Council, Wellcome Trust, Commonwealth Scholarships, University of Exeter Global Excellence Scholars China Scholarship Council, and doctoral scholarships attached to major research grants.

Courses include:

• British maritime history from the Middle Ages to today

• Business history and maritime trade

• Port cities and communities

• Mariners’ welfare and education

• Naval history from the Middle Ages to the present day, in particular, the connections between naval, political, social, economic and other histories

• Naval leadership from the late-seventeenth century to the mid-twentieth century

• British naval administration and logistics

• Mediterranean maritime history from the middle ages to the eighteenth century

• African maritime history and African port cities.