Studying history is not just learning facts, dates and names. It’s about investigating and interpreting evidence to understand the make-up of our own identities as individuals, cultures and nations. Become an independent researcher and critical thinker. Work closely with subject experts to develop investigative and analytical skills, while gaining hands-on experience with historical documentation and artifacts. Experience unique opportunities on study abroad placements, previous destinations have included the USA, Canada, Ireland and Spain.

You will gain the necessary analytical skills in your first year, sampling all our specialist strands in British, European, American and Soviet history. Develop your own focus in the second year by specializing in two or more of these areas. You'll also benefit from our wide range of guest speakers. In the past we’ve had important figures like Bonnie Greer OBE, journalists Tim Stanley and Gary Younge, as well as holocaust survivor John Dobai.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to gain practical experience too. In addition to various field trips within the UK, students can take part in international research trips to locations such as Spain, as well as studying abroad in Europe and North America.  You will use a range of investigative approaches when handling historical sources. Official documents, manuscripts, art, literature, film, photography, music and many more, are all accessed through our local and international partnerships with museums, archives and historical sites.