Lancaster University
Regional and Local History (Distance Learning) PgCert
Lancaster University

Key Course Facts

Course Description

This new online programme offers the opportunity for those interested in regional and local history to gain an award from a top UK university that is renowned for its expertise in this field and has significant experience in delivering high quality distance programmes.

Regional and local studies offer a well-defined way to approach important historical themes and techniques. Whether you are interested in rural areas or urban centres, counties or kingdoms, uplands or lowlands, this programme will equip you with the skills, knowledge and confidence that you need to conduct primary research of your own in this vibrant and varied field.

You will build up your knowledge and skills through two taught modules, one rooted in medieval history and one at the dawn of the modern era. These modules will enhance your understanding of a broad sweep of history, develop your critical awareness in dealing with historical scholarship, and improve your ability to interpret various types of historical sources. You will then have the chance to put these skills into practice, with the guidance of a tutor, in an independent research project.

The programme will appeal to anyone who is enthusiastic about History, particularly those who wish to deepen their awareness of the importance of local experience in shaping our understandings of national and international trends.

Programme focus and modules

The programme consists of three modules which are focused on the history of the North of England, ranging from the Viking Age to the Victorian industrial era. However, the skills and contextual knowledge that you should develop through this course are applicable to regional and local studies more widely. The final module is a substantial independent research project with individual support and supervision from your tutor. You can find out more about these modules in the programme structure section. While there are no optional modules for this programme, the independent research project provides the opportunity to pursue your particular interests and carry out your own research, with support from our expert tutors.

How will I study?

  • You will access a range of fascinating learning materials online and will be able to study at a time and place to suit you. A wide variety of primary sources will be introduced and discussed, for example:
  • medieval texts, including chronicles, legal material and manorial records;
  • later written records such as: parish registers; census tables; tithe records; enclosure awards; agricultural statistics; farm surveys; agricultural reports and commissions;
  • other kinds of sources and evidence such as oral testimonies, place-names and medieval buildings including castles, abbeys and pele towers.

You will be able to discuss the different elements of the programme with other students via text-based discussion through the online learning platform. The online learning platform hosts the learning guidance for each week, links to online reading lists, and a wide range of other resources such as videos. You will be in frequent online contact with your course tutors and other students, and you will receive one-to-one supervision for your independent project.

The flexibility of this programme and the learning format is ideal for people who want to pursue their historical interests around family or work commitments, and is suitable for learners accessing the programme from different parts of the world.

We provide guidance on accessing the materials and using the platform, and technical support is available for anyone who is new to this way of learning.

There may also be the option to take part in seminars at the Lancaster University campus, which are organised around the Regional Heritage Centre’s Study Days. These days are useful and informative, but they are not a core part of the course and you will not be disadvantaged if you are unable to participate. There is a small additional fee for attending study days.

Entry Requirements / Admissions

Requirements for international students / English requirements

IELTS academic test score (similar tests may be accepted as well)

    • 7.0
    • Graduate Degrees
    • 6.5
    • Undergraduate Degrees
Get advice on which foundation courses are best for you to still study Regional and Local History (Distance Learning), PgCert, if you do not meet the minimum requirements in terms of UCAS score, A levels, or English language requirements.

2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in History or a relevant subject

We will also consider applications where you have studied a degree in a different subject, and in some cases where you have not studied at university level.

We know that many of our applicants have had a long break from study of any sort but they have developed their interests through activities such as personal research, membership of a local history society and volunteering at a local museum or other Heritage organisation. We encourage our applicants to use their Personal Statement to demonstrate that they have a genuine enthusiasm for regional and/or local history, and to show that they have the interest and ability to undertake this programme of study.

We would encourage those who are interested to contact us for information.

Costs

Average student cost of living in the UK

Rent £518
Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) £50
Supermarket shopping £81
Clothing £35
Eating out £33
Alcohol £27
Takeaways / food deliveries £30
Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) £24
Holidays and weekend trips £78
Transport within city £17
Self-care / sports £20
Stationary / books £13
Mobile phone / internet £13
Cable TV / streaming £7
Insurance £51
Other £95
  
Average student cost of living £1092

London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.

University Rankings

Positions of Lancaster University in top UK and global rankings.

See all 34 university rankings of Lancaster University

About Lancaster University

Lancaster University was established in 1964 and is located in the rural setting of Lancaster. The campus provides a series of amenities, including banks and a post office. Academically, all of this university’s courses and programmes are accredited and approved by MARP, ensuring that the curriculums delivered here are set at a high standard. In terms of facilities, students have access to a variety of study and recreational spaces intended to improve their wellbeing, such as Meditation and Tai Chi classes, and Woodland walks.

List of 452 Bachelor and Master Courses from Lancaster University - Course Catalogue

Student composition of Lancaster University

undergraduates:
12595
postgraduates:
4065
Total:
16660
  • Things to know before you come to Lancaster University
  • Why did you come to Lancaster to study a postgraduate degree?
  • Things I wish I knew before coming to Lancaster University
  • 40 Questions with Lancaster University student Erin
  • My Favourite Spots in Lancaster

Where is this programme taught

Main Site
map marker Show on map

Similar courses

Program University Student satis­faction Unem­ployed Drop­out Tuition (UK) Tuition (Inter­national) UCAS Tariff City
Regional and Local History (Distance Learning) PgCert Lancaster University - - - - - - Lancaster On campus Part-time