History [with Placement year]

Take a journey into the past and explore what it means for our present and future. Discover epoch-making developments from histories around the world.

• Join a course that scored 95% for Teaching on my Course and 91% for Assessment and Feedback in the National Student Survey 2023.

• Build skills that take you into the world of work, including research and data analysis.

• Learn to communicate using different formats, from the printed page to podcasts, webpages and exhibitions.

• Carry out research in Cambridge’s museums and archives and go on European field trip.

• Learn from trained historians with an international reputation for the work they publish.

• Attend talks by leading historians and other experts.

• Take a placement year, or seek a placement alongside your studies, and solve real-world challenges through live briefs set by local employers.

Explore the histories of Britain, Europe, the United States and other parts of the world from 1500 onwards. Encounter major historical figures and explore epoch-making transitions in human experience like imperialism, industrialisation, revolutions and new technology.

At the same time, you’ll study the history of everyday life, including changes in the home, consumerism and popular culture, exploring the connections between developments at national and international levels, and the experiences of ordinary people.

Careers

On this course, you'll build up skills valued by employers, such as critical thinking and complex problem solving.

You’ll receive training in research and data analysis, learning how to gain the most from sources and communicate your research using formats from the printed page through to podcasts, webpages and exhibitions.

You’ll also gain access to museums and archives where you'll meet professionals working in the field, and take part in live briefs for partner organisations.

Our recent History graduates now work in the Civil Service, museums and archives, the police, the armed forces, teaching at all levels, business, administration, and the media, as well as other rewarding and enjoyable jobs.

Charles Redwood is a Senior Aviation Analyst and Forecaster for Jane’s, while Daisy Murray-Smith is a Records Officer with Surrey Police.

But you might decide to stay at ARU and study for a Masters, such as our MA History or MA International Relations. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.

Teaching

In Year 1 you’ll study early modern Britain and Europe, how history links to modern news stories, and the development of the USA.

You’ll also access Cambridge museums and archives as you start to work as a historian.

In Year 2 you’ll explore nineteenth- and twentieth-century Britain, and political and social change in Britain and Europe, and choose from our range of optional modules.

Finally, you’ll complete a major piece of research on a topic of your choice, as well as considering gender and sexuality in modern Britain, and learning methods to communicate your research.