History

Nurture your understanding of social, cultural and political developments in Britain, Europe and the wider world. You’ll explore modern history from 1700 onwards.

From landscapes and air pollution to the politics of revolution, learn about how modern history continues to shape our world.

As part of this course, you’ll:

• Learn how historians look to the future based on their understanding of the past

• Expand your knowledge of social, cultural and political development from 1700 onwards

• Analyse documents including films, official records, personal narratives and letters in the context of global events

• Work directly with communities in Leeds and help uncover the city's rich history

• Gain transferable skills in research, writing and critical analysis to become a highly employable graduate

Find out more

We celebrate students and staff with a true passion for the arts and humanities.

We’ll nurture your passion. This course will develop your creative and critical thinking through:

• Inspired teaching and intellectual debate

• Day-to-day interaction with award-winning authors and playwrights

• A rolling programme of media industry professionals, published lecturers and world-renowned researchers

Building your future potential
As a student in the School of Humanities & Social Sciences, you’ll be encouraged to think about your future career right from the start of your learning journey. Information and advice about relevant future career options will be built into the first year of your degree. During your second and third years of study, you’ll be able to choose modules with live brief learning challenges (real life projects designed by employers) and work placement opportunities.

Career opportunities
We’ll open your mind to the wide range of opportunities to pursue a career you love. This could be anything from writing and teaching, through journalism and copywriting, business and marketing, to research and publishing.

Heart of culture and the arts
Leeds is the Northern heart of culture and the arts. Your campus sits in the very centre of the city, surrounded by numerous museums, art galleries, theatres, film production companies and recording studios.

We work directly with Leeds museums and galleries and many regional events, including the Ilkley Literature Festival and the Leeds West Indian Carnival.

Diverse research community
Our research and teaching explore a diversity of topics, from South Africa under Apartheid to the cultural impact of the LGBTQ community, and on-line racism in football to 21st-century genres.

Hands-on learning
We're also very hands-on. You’ll have access to regular conferences, seminars and events organised by our Centre for Culture and the Arts, and collaborations with institutes and cultural organisations.

Why study the History course at Leeds Beckett University?

• 100% of students on BA (Hons) History were positive about the way teaching staff explain things*

• Guest lectures delivered by industry professionals

• Professional Project Workshop module allows you to gain practical experience working with live-briefs set by industry partners

• Strong and meaningful partnerships with community organisations

*National Student Survey 2025