Taught master's funding
There are a number of potential sources of funding available to some students aiming to undertake a taught master's course in the history of science, technology and medicine.
Please note that studentships for master's-level study, particularly from national funders, are increasingly only aimed at potential research (PhD) students. The application process for a 'research preparation' studentship may require a fairly detailed research plan to be developed in consultation with potential research supervisors at CHSTM. We are happy to help with this process, but can only do so for candidates genuinely aiming to go on to PhD work.
Some external funding schemes require the application to be submitted via CHSTM, rather than directly by the potential student. Together with drafting and discussion of personal statements and (where appropriate) research proposals, this process can take several weeks. You should therefore discuss any potential funding application well in advance of submission deadlines with the relevant Programme Director in the first instance.
In all cases, please check the relevant external websites for definitive details of awards, eligibility criteria for applicants, and submission deadlines. Please note that competition is intense for all studentships, and a very strong performance at undergraduate level is required.
On this page you can find information on:
Local funding
Wellcome Trust Master’s studentship in History of Medicine/Medical Humanities
The Centre for the History of Science, Technology and Medicine (CHSTM), University of Manchester, invites expressions of interest and applications for a Master’s studentship in Humanities and Social Science, funded by the Wellcome Trust.
As part of their commitment to building an influential and diverse population of future researchers in humanities and social sciences, the Wellcome Trust have provided CHSTM with a number of studentships for one year of taught study on our Master’s programme in History of Science, Technology and Medicine. The studentships cover full-time UK tuition fees for 2024-25, a living allowance and research expenses.
CHSTM is a large, research active group with expertise in medical history and humanities. Competitive applicants will be able to demonstrate a commitment to building a research career in these fields. They will have a clear idea as to their Master’s research project and how this will lead to doctoral study. Potential for synergy with ongoing research at CHSTM would be highly desirable.
Applicants are encouraged to express their interest and discuss potential applications by contacting Dr Duncan Wilson: duncan.wilson@manchester.ac.uk.
Application information and deadlines
Applications should be sent to Dr Wilson at the email address above no later than 3pm on Friday 19th April 2024. Your application should include:
- a brief CV, with details of undergraduate degree held or being undertaken
- details of the research proposed (maximum of two pages), including (a) an outline of a your proposed Master’s-level research project and (b) a short indication of your anticipated doctoral research area
- a letter of support from a current academic sponsor
The successful applicant will be chosen by a committee of research-active University of Manchester staff who work across medical history and humanities.
Funding for UK and European Union students
Postgraduate loans
Government postgraduate loans of up to £10,000 are available for students aged 60 or under from the UK, if ordinarily resident in England, or from other parts of the UK. Part-time students are eligible. For the latest details, please see the Postgraduate Loan Scheme page on the main University website.
North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership
The Economic and Social Research Council similarly offers a small number of awards for research-focused students via the North West Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership.
Master's training is offered only on a 1+3 basis (i.e. for an master's year followed by a three-year PhD programme, or part-time equivalents). Students seeking a research focus in economic or social history, science and technology studies, or innovation studies may be eligible. UK applicants are eligible for fees plus stipend awards.
Society bursaries
The British Society for the History of Science has in previous years offered Master's Degree Bursaries of up to £4,000 to support the living expenses of those accepted for taught master's courses in History of Science, Technology and Medicine.
Other learned societies such as the Society for Social History of Medicine, the Economic History Society and the Royal Historical Association also offer grants and/or bursaries to those already enrolled on courses to help support research, travel or other expenses.
Professional and Career Development Loans
Some students, particularly those on the MA Science Communication course with relevant career plans, may qualify for the Professional and Career Development Loans offered by various banks. See the Gov.uk website for more information.
Alternative funding schemes
Self-funding students may be eligible for support from charitable trusts or other agencies on a national or local basis. More information is available from the main University webpage on alternative funding schemes.
Another alternative option is to combine part-time paid work with part-time study on the master's course over two years. It's possible to do this with a restricted number of days on campus. Please talk to the Programme Director for further information.
Funding for Non-UK students
Chevening Scholarships
Non-UK students are eligible to apply for the competitive Chevening Scholarships supported by the UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Potential applicants should also contact their local British Council office for information and advice about funding opportunities.
Other funding options
Non-UK students are also encouraged to investigate funding options through national or other agencies in their own countries, as many will offer study abroad opportunities (eg Marshall Scholarships or Fulbright Scholarships for US citizens).
Further information, including a database of funding opportunities, is provided on the main University website.