History and English

About the course

BA History and English brings together two powerful disciplines to help you understand how the past shapes literature and how literature reshapes our understanding of history. You will explore real events alongside the books, plays and poems they inspired, examining postcolonial narratives, Cold War conflicts, London in literature and Shakespeare in the modern world.

Through hands on projects, creative assessments and an independent final year research project, you will grow as a thinker, communicator and creator. History at Roehampton is ranked 12th best in the UK in the Guardian League Table 2024, ranked 1st in London for Academic Support in the National Student Survey 2024, and recognised as a top modern university in London for History. English has been ranked top 5 in London in the Guardian League Table 2024.

What you’ll study

You’ll build a solid foundation in modern history and literary studies, while gaining professional skills valued across media, education, heritage and public service sectors, including critical reading, historical analysis, close textual interpretation, research using primary sources, digital storytelling and effective written and spoken communication.

Modules offered can vary each year but may include:

• Discovering Literature

• The History Lab

• Britain from the Blitz to Brexit

• London in Literature

How you’ll learn

You will learn through:

• Interactive seminars and workshops built around discussion, debate and collaborative analysis

• Analysis of historical sources, literary texts and digital archives

• Field trips to museums and heritage sites

• Creative and digital projects including vlogs, podcasts and portfolios

• 100% coursework assessment including essays, investigative reports, media analysis and a final year capstone project

You will also have access to dedicated academic guidance, wellbeing support and extensive library and digital resources to support your independent research and creative development.

Future opportunities

This degree prepares you for a wide range of graduate careers by developing advanced communication, research, digital, creative and analytical skills. Your assessments mirror real world tasks, helping you graduate with practical experience and a strong portfolio.

• Publishing and editing

• Teaching and education

• Journalism, media and podcasting

• Heritage, museums and cultural organisations

• Public service, NGOs and policy roles

The course also provides an excellent foundation for postgraduate study across history, literature and related fields.

Facilities

You will study within a vibrant academic community supported by specialist humanities resources and access to London’s cultural institutions.

• Dedicated library and study spaces

• Access to digital archives and primary source collections

• Opportunities for museum and heritage site visits

• Collaborative seminar and workshop environments

These facilities support your academic development and help you apply historical and literary knowledge with confidence.