Contemporary History

Our Contemporary History degree explores modern history, focusing on the transformative events and struggles from the nineteenth to the twenty-first century. Unlike traditional history courses, we incorporate insights from politics and cultural studies to explore not just what happened, but how history is shaped, produced, and used in society.

You’ll examine global issues like the rise of dominant powers, the evolution of racism, and the marginalisation of certain groups. Through small seminar groups, you’ll hone your skills in debate, critical thinking, and persuasive argumentation, preparing you to challenge historical narratives and understand their impact on today's world.

TOP REASONS TO CHOOSE THIS COURSE

• Small, participatory seminar groups with every seminar supported by a preceding lecture

• Your academic work will be supported by workshops that develop your academic and independent research skills

• Become a skilled oral and written communicator, confident in presenting work on your own and as a member of a group

• Expert teaching team including academics who develop leading research as part of the Centre for Applied Philosophy, Politics and Ethics

• Opportunity to undertake a placement, giving you valuable work experience and contacts

• An interdisciplinary approach drawing on, and combining, various disciplines to understand topics and ideas, you will develop a deep and multilayered approach to contemporary issues

• An engaging curriculum designed to be both challenging and stimulating, with a mix of lectures, seminars, debates, and collaborative projects

• Real-world application - this course encourages you to apply theoretical approaches to real-world issues, preparing you to address contemporary global challenges

• Join a vibrant community within the programme and the School of Humanities and Social Science, all based in one building

• Opportunities take part in subject-related conferences and events - we have a student-run Humanities Society which organises a busy annual calendar of expert speakers, debates and events.