Historical archives courses

These courses introduce students to the fundamental skills of conducting original historical research, guiding them through the processes of compiling bibliography, locating primary source materials and using archives and repositories. As well as being introduced to the printed and online tools available, the group will visit the most important archives and libraries for their field of interest, learning about their collections and how to use them, and meeting the specialist archivists who will help them in their work.

• Summer School in Local History

   25-27 June 2012
  The Institute of Historical Research is delighted to announce its inaugural three-day non-residential summer school in local history, to be held at the Institute from 25-27 June. The school is open to all those keen to expand or update their skills in local history research. It will introduce you to the most up-to-date methods, sources and successful approaches to the subject through an exciting programme of lectures and workshops.

• Methods and sources for historical research

   9-13 January 2012, 16-20 April 2012
  An introduction to finding and using primary sources for research in modern British, Irish and colonial history. The course will include visits to the British Library, The National Archives, the Wellcome Institute and the House of Lords Record Office, among others.

• Visual sources for historians

  7 February - 6 March 2012
  An introduction to the use of visual sources by historians (post-1500). Through lectures, discussions and visits the course will explore films, paintings, photographs, architecture and design as historical sources, as well as provide an introduction to particular items both in situ and held in archives and libraries.