What is International History?
History is the study of life in the past. It is the story of humankind in time and the study of what happened in the past, when it happened and how it happened to potentially answer questions about why it happened.
International History is a sub-field of history that studies the political and diplomatic relations between nations and how nations have interacted with one another in the past.
What 3rd level courses are available?
Universities and colleges in Ireland are offering courses in International History in the following subject areas:
- International History (M.Phil.) – A study of transnational, comparative, and international approaches to history and the study of foreign languages, cultures, and societies.
- MA in History – Gain a deeper understanding of Ireland’s social, cultural, economic, and political history from the Middle Ages to the present day.
- Pre – University: Arts, Culture, and History – This course provides students with solid background knowledge and skills for progression to third level Arts or Media Degree.
- Public History and Cultural Heritage (M.Phil.) – An analysis of cultural memory, its construction, reception, and loss; and study of the public status and consumption of history in modern society.
- MA in International Relations – Gain a better understanding of the world, international relations, security studies, public policy, and law.
- Early Modern History (M.Phil.) – An introduction to research in the political, social, cultural, and religious history of Ireland, Britain, and Europe across the early modern period.
- Introduction to Roman History – An introductory survey of the history of the Greek and Roman world, colonization, imperialism, war, the Athenian invention of democracy, the rise of Alexander, and the emergence of Rome as a major power in the Mediterranean.
- Introduction to Greek History – This course provides an introductory survey of the history of the Greek world, from the Greek Archaic Age to the Hellenistic period.
- Irish History – Learn about events in Irish History from Medieval times to the 21st century.
Studying International History
Many courses in International History may take place over a few days, weeks, or even 1 year to 4 years depending on the course and modules selected. There are also part-time courses and night courses available so you can be sure to fit in your studies no matter what your schedule is like.
Courses will cover theory work through lectures, assignments, tutorials, and taught modules. Assessments will take place continuously with written examinations and practical assignments combined to achieve a qualification.
You could also consider work experience or a work shadow in the industry. Volunteering can be a useful way of developing experience. Languages are important for several roles, so gaining work experience abroad, or other experience that allows you to develop language skills can be of great benefit.
Relevant work experience is a good way of demonstrating a genuine interest in the field and is regarded favorably by employers.
Work Experience will not only allow you to obtain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the industry, but it will also give you a chance to do some essential networking with other industry professionals and gain valuable contacts for the future.
Career options
After completing an International History course you will be able to get started in a career that uses specific knowledge of history and geography.
A passion for studying and preserving history is important, although it won’t be enough to secure a job. You’ll need to be educated to at least degree level for many roles, but relevant work experience is even more vital.
A qualification in International History can lead to a variety of jobs and often includes other activities, such as managing public relations, marketing, fundraising, and running education programs for different facilities and programs. It’s becoming common for museums, galleries, heritage, and tourism attractions to develop collaborative relationships and share collections across countries, as well as their expertise, which has opened up even more opportunities within the field.
Working hours will depend on whether you are self-employed, employed by a company with set business hours, or if you are contracted to various businesses or companies. Within the field working hours are mainly Monday to Friday, but extra hours are often necessary for the run-up to exhibitions or for providing cover for evening meetings or other work-related social events for which time off in lieu is usually claimed.
Self-employment and contract work are common, not least in the field of archaeology where consultancy work can lead to international opportunities, depending on reputation. Overseas work or travel is possible for those whose expertise is recognized internationally.
Related jobs include:
- Academic researcher
- Archivist
- Conservator
- Heritage manager
- Historian
- Historic buildings inspector/conservation officer
- Museum education officer
- Museum/gallery curator
- Museum/gallery exhibitions officer
- Secondary school teacher
- Academic librarian
- Archaeologist
- Broadcast journalist
- Civil Service administrator
- Editorial assistant
- Human resources officer
- Information officer
- Marketing executive
- Policy officer
- Diplomatic service officer
- Government social research officer
- Intelligence analyst
- International aid/development worker
- Policy officer
- Political risk analyst
- Public affairs consultant
Further study
After completing a course in International History you may choose to pursue further study in a specialist field to increase your knowledge base and skill set. Postgraduate study can also be used as a means to change career focus or to gain professional qualifications required to practice in certain career areas such as International relations, diplomacy, international development, law, or business.
FAQ
What is the importance of International History?
History is important to study because it is essential for all of us in understanding ourselves and the world around us. There is a history of every field and topic, from medicine to music and art. The study of history is essential for understanding the past and the present, but also for envisioning the future.
What skills could be helpful for a career in International History?
Some skills that will be helpful for any career in the field of History include:
· An interest in and knowledge of a relevant subject area
· Accuracy and attention to detail
· Communication skills, both written and oral
· Organisation, planning, and administrative skills
· Political awareness
· Research skills
· Teamwork skills and the ability to build and develop relationships
Where can I study International History?
Explore your options here
Did You Know?
· From 1912 to 1948, the Olympic Games held competitions in the fine arts. Medals were given for literature, architecture, sculpture, painting, and music.
· Did you know Abraham Lincoln is in the wrestling hall of fame? The 6’4″ president had only one loss among his around 300 contests. He earned a reputation for this in New Salem, Illinois, as an elite fighter.
· During the Salem witch trials, the accused witches weren’t burned at the stake. The majority were jailed, and some were hanged. But none of the 2,000 people accused ever got burned alive.
· The University of Oxford is older than the Aztec Empire. The University of Oxford first opened its doors to students back in 1096. By comparison, the Aztec Empire is said to have originated with the founding of the city of Tenochtitlán at Lake Texcoco by the Mexica which occurred in the year 1325.
· Augustus Caesar was the wealthiest man to ever live in history. Nephew and heir of Julius Caesar, Roman Emperor Augustus had an estimated net worth of $46 trillion when counting for inflation.
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