History and Philosophy are two complementary subjects that can be studied alongside each other at degree level.

If you want to understand the past to prepare for your future in a changing world, studying History is the way forward.  As well as covering modern, early modern and medieval Britain and Europe, we offer considerable scope to study the wider world.  You get the chance to question some of the prevailing myths, preconceptions and prejudices which surround the writing of History. 

Philosophy is for people who find they are bothered by questions that their friends can cheerfully ignore; people who do not want to settle for conventional answers and received wisdom, but want to arrive at answers that stand up to the most searching examination.  Studying Philosophy at the University of Birmingham will give you access to world-class talent in fields as diverse as Metaphysics, Philosophy of Psychiatry, Epistemology, Ethics, Philosophy of Religion, Philosophy of Mind and many others.

History at Birmingham is ranked within the Top 10 in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019, whilst Philosophy is ranked within the Top 5. This is the fourth consecutive year that we have been ranked in the Top 5.