Course summary
Why study History with Foundation Year at Liverpool John Moores University?
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LJMU ranked in the top 10 universities in the UK for History (Uni Compare - Subject Rankings 2027)
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Teaching directly informed by internationally-recognised research
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Choose from a wide range of option modules
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Visit a major European city to undertake fieldwork in your second year
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Develops high-level problem-solving and communication skills sought by employers
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Opens up a diverse range of careers from managerial and administrative posts to the media and the military
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94% of students surveyed on this course said teaching staff were good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2025)
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96% of students surveyed on this course said LJMU offered activities and resources to prepare them for the next step in their career (National Student Survey 2025)
About your course
Teaching on the BA (Hons) History at Liverpool John Moores University is directly informed by internationally-recognised and ground-breaking research.
You don't need any prior knowledge of history but if you have an enquiring mind and an enthusiasm for uncovering the past, this course provides a forum for lively debate and introduces you to political, economic, intellectual and cultural history, as well as the modern history of Britain, Ireland, Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and Eastern Asia. There is also an option to specialise in an area so that you can focus on those aspects of the past that you find most rewarding.
There is an important social side to the course too. Students have an opportunity to join a number of societies and we incorporate 'out of classroom' learning. The International Fieldwork in History level 5 module, where students travel to a Europe city, will allow you to sample a different culture and how this influences the ways in which history is presented in museums. Other modules incorporate visits to sites on Merseyside and beyond.
Foundation Year
The Foundation Year is ideal if you have the interest and ability to study for a degree, but do not have the qualifications to enter directly onto the History honours degree programme yet. Once you pass the Foundation Year (level 3) you will progress directly onto the first year of the honours degree. If you are a full-time UK student, you will qualify for student financial support for the full duration of your course (subject to eligibility criteria).
Modules
Please visit the Liverpool John Moores University website for detailed module information.
Assessment method
Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.
We acknowledge that all students perform differently depending on the way they are assessed, which is why we use a combination of assessment methods. Coursework can be in the form of essays, portfolios, short written pieces, independent studies and dissertations. There are two types of exam: seen and unseen. Exam questions are available two weeks before the start of seen exams so you have the chance to prepare fully for them.
Your tutors will provide feedback on coursework assessments within 15 days of submission via Canvas, face-to-face or as written comments. We believe constructive feedback is vital in helping you to identify your strengths as well as the areas where you may need to put in more work.