Graduate Diploma in Arts (Advanced) - History

This course consists of two main parts: the writing of a thesis that constitutes an original contribution to historical knowledge and participation in seminars that explore history as a craft and a profession, sampling a range of topics and approaches. The thesis is completed under the one-on-one supervision of an experienced academic and involves original research in primary sources and the development of skills in interpreting those sources in order to construct an argument that is then situated within the existing scholarship. The course develops marketable skills in research, critical analysis, written and oral communication, and argumentation.

Students who complete the Graduate Diploma in Arts (Advanced) should provide:

• an in-depth knowledge of selected topics and approaches in history;
• an understanding of the concepts and principles that undergird historical research and argumentation;
• development of skills involved in researching and writing an independent project that constitutes an original contribution to knowledge that uses rigorous methods of source analysis;
• development of critical and analytical tools used in evaluating and using primary sources in the construction of historical interpretation;
• development of knowledge and skills that will enable critical and informed participation in the community of historians, in society, and in the work force;
• development of communication skills, both written and oral;
• build skills as above that are useful in a range of occupations;
• encourage a commitment to continuous learning; and
• development of skills in gathering, organising, and processing large numbers of sources (‘data’).

Duration: 1 year full-time / 2 years part-time

The Graduate Diploma in Arts (Advanced) in this area of specialisation requires:

• three compulsory subjects (37.5 points)
• thesis (50 points)
• elective subject (12.5 points)

Total 100 points

Compulsory Subjects

3 compulsory subjects (37.5 points)

Thesis Subject

Thesis subject (50 points)

Please note: the thesis must be taken over two consecutive semesters

Elective Subjects

12.5 points

Please note: the program coordinator may give permission for subjects other than those listed as elective subjects, provided that:

• the subject is at an appropriate level;
• is relevant to the program;
• permission to enrol has been given by the program/subject coordinator