Studying military history abroad
What is military history?
Military history is the study of past conflicts, armies, battles, and the strategies used throughout history. It explores how wars have shaped nations, societies, and political systems. This includes topics such as ancient warfare, world wars, military technology, leadership, and the impact of war on civilians and culture.
The subject draws on knowledge from history, political science, sociology, and geography. As a military history student, you will analyse how armies fought, how strategies evolved, and how conflicts influenced society. Your studies might take you from archives and libraries to battlefields, museums, and historical sites.
Why study military history abroad?
Studying military history in another country allows you to explore historical sites and museums in person. You could visit battlefields where significant events took place, see preserved fortresses, or examine military artefacts in national collections. These experiences give you a deeper understanding of history than reading alone.
By studying in different countries, you will gain perspectives on how conflicts have been interpreted and remembered globally. You will also develop skills in critical thinking, research, and cross-cultural communication, while forming international connections with historians, museums, and heritage organisations.
What you will study
Military history programmes usually combine lectures with practical research and fieldwork. Key areas of study can include:
- Ancient and Medieval Warfare – understanding early armies, weapons, and tactics.
- Modern Military Conflicts – studying wars from the 18th century to present day.
- Military Strategy and Leadership – analysing decision-making and battlefield tactics.
- History of Technology – exploring how weapons, armour, and logistics changed warfare.
- Impact of War on Society – examining civilians, politics, and culture during conflicts.
- Archival and Research Skills – investigating historical records and presenting findings.
Many courses also include field trips, visits to museums, access to military archives, or internships with historical organisations.
Related subjects you might also like
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Archaeology
- Sociology
- War Studies
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Military History, War Studies, or a related field. Some programmes allow you to combine history with politics, international relations, or strategy studies.
At postgraduate level, options include a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Research (MRes) in Military History, Strategic Studies, or Conflict Studies. Specialisations might focus on areas such as naval history, military technology, or peace and conflict resolution. A PhD is often required for advanced research or academic careers.
Professional accreditation may be offered in some regions for historians, heritage professionals, or museum curators working with military collections.
Careers
A degree in military history can lead to careers in research, education, museums, or government. Graduates often work as historians, curators, or archivists, preserving and interpreting military records.
Others become educators, teaching history in schools, colleges, or universities. Many work in heritage and cultural organisations, designing exhibitions or managing historical sites.
You could also pursue careers in defence analysis, policy research, or publishing. Research roles are available in universities, think tanks, or historical institutes.
Beyond these roles, military history graduates may become writers, journalists, or advisors on historical accuracy for media and entertainment. The skills you develop are sought after worldwide, providing opportunities to work with history that continues to influence the modern world.