1.2 Researching the Right History Degree for You
History is a broad discipline with many degree options, so it’s important to consider your interests and goals when choosing a course. One major advantage is the flexibility to tailor your studies, especially through your final-year dissertation. For example, if you’re interested in environmental sustainabilityThe protection and conservation of natural resources and ecosystems so that they remain available for future generations., you could focusWhat the writer draws attention to at a given moment (e.g., setting, character, detail). on environmental history, even if you’re not studying environmental science. This allows you to develop expertise in a relevant area, making your skills valuable to potential employers. By aligning your dissertation with your career goals, you can showcase specialised knowledge and experience within your chosen field.
Here are some of the most popular history-related degrees, but it often pairs well with other subjects such as languages:
| Course | Description |
| History | A straightforward history degree typically offers a broad curriculum, covering various periods and themes. You’ll be able to specialise in certain areas, such as mediaeval, modern, or global history, as you progress. This is a great option if you have a wide range of historical interests and want to keep your options open. This is the most popular. |
| Ancient History | Focuses on the classical civilisations of Greece and Rome, and often includes study of the Near East and early European history. If you're fascinated by the ancient world—its politics, culture, and philosophy—this could be a perfect fit. In some universities this course also has lower entry requirements as it is less popular. |
| History and Politics | This combined degree links historical developments to political systems, ideologies, and movements. Politics naturally comes up a lot in a history degree and so is a great pairing. |
| AnthropologyThe study of humans, their societies, and cultures, often closely linked with archaeology in university degree programs. and History | This is another popular pairing as anthropology is naturally linked to history. Anthropology involves the study of human societies, cultures, and their development. |
| History of Art | This degree focuses on the development of art and visual culture through history. You'll explore how art reflects social, political, and cultural contexts across different periods, from ancient to contemporary times. |
| ArchaeologyThe study of the human past through material remains such as artefacts, buildings, and landscapes. and History | If you're interested in uncovering the physical remnants of the past, this combination offers the chance to study material cultureThe physical objects, resources, and spaces that people use to define their culture. alongside historical narratives. |
| Liberal Arts | This is a separate course but it allows you to study history alongside a range of other subjects, such as literature, philosophyThe study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics. or politics. This could be a great option if you're interested in how history interacts with culture, politics, and society on a wider scale. |
Note
How to Choose Your University
When selecting a history course, it’s important to consider more than just the degree title. Different universities offer different approaches to the subject, so you should carefully review the following aspects:
- Course Content: Look closely at the modules offered at each university. Does the course cover the periods or themes that interest you most? Check if you have the flexibility to choose optional modules or if the curriculum is more structured.
- Assessment Methods: Universities use a variety of assessment methods, from traditional essays and exams, to presentations and group projects. Some even offer opportunities for creative assessments, such as exhibitions or public history projects.
- Exam Format: Check whether the course is exam-heavy or whether assessments are mainly coursework-based. Some people perform better in a steady stream of essays and projects, while others might thrive doing end-of-year exams.
- Dissertation and Research Opportunities: Most history degrees have a dissertation, where you’ll independently research and write a long essay on a topic of your choice. Look for universities that offer support in this area, such as access to good libraries, archivesArchives are collections of historical documents and records preserved for research, including letters, photos, and government records., or even digital resourcesThe inputs used to produce goods and services, including the factors of production.. Some courses also offer study abroad options or internships, which can enhance your research experience.
- Teaching Style: Universities vary in how they structureThe organisation and order of information in a text. teaching. Some may rely heavily on lectures, while others emphasise smaller seminar-style discussions. Most do both, but it is worth checking.
- University Resources: Consider the libraries, archives, and digital resources available to history students. Does the university have access to local archives, special collections, or digital databases?
- Extracurricular Opportunities: Some universities have history societies, public history projects, or opportunities to work with local heritage organisations. These activities can enhance your learning experience and provide practical skills that will be valuable in your future career.