American History with Politics

This programme offers an in-depth exploration of American history intertwined with contemporary political developments, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the historical forces that have shaped the United States and their ongoing influence on politics today. Designed for those interested in history, political science, and American studies, the course combines rigorous academic analysis with engaging discussions and research opportunities. Throughout the programme, students examine key periods of American history, from the colonial era through the revolutionary period, the Civil War and Reconstruction, the industrial age, the world wars, the civil rights movement, and into the present day. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, historical interpretation, and the contextualization of political ideologies, social movements, and governmental institutions. Students will explore topics such as the development of democracy, the expansion of civil rights, immigration, economic transformation, and America's role on the global stage. The programme also examines the interplay between political institutions and societal change, including the impact of political parties, constitutional debates, and policy formation. With access to extensive archives, libraries, and experienced faculty, students develop robust research skills and an ability to analyze complex historical and political issues. The programme prepares graduates for careers in academia, government, policy analysis, journalism, or further research, equipping them with a nuanced understanding of American history's relevance to current political debates. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to critically evaluate sources, engage with contemporary political discourse, and develop their own perspectives on America's evolving identity. The programme's combination of history and politics aims to foster informed, analytical thinkers capable of contributing thoughtfully to societal challenges.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10560 Year (EEA)
• EUR 14430 Year (Non-EEA)

Home/EU £9,000; International £12,300

• English

Course Content

Year 1

In the first year you take foundational classes, including two semester-long modules which introduce you to the major events in American history from first contact and the colonial period to the present Containing Multitudes parts I and II. Your introductory classes also include the foundation course Reading Cultures which focuses, in part I, on American Icons and, in part II, Ideas and Ideologies to deepen your understanding of the United States and, at the same time, to focus on the critical and writing skills essential for success at university. Students on this course also study two foundational modules in politics on social and political theory and on contemporary politics.

Year 2

In the second year, the wide range of options in American history offers the opportunity to explore subjects which could let you explore familiar events in new depth or take you in exciting new directions. You could study, for example: Native American history, the Civil Rights movement, gender and sexuality in the early American republic, the history of New York City, the history of American dissent in the 20th century, or US society during the years of The Dawn of the American Century and its ascent to global power. There are also interdisciplinary options that enable you to approach themes in American culture and history from new perspectives. These could include, for example: American Masculinities, Borderlands of the American Southwest, American Music, Looking at Pictures: Photography and Visual Culture in the USA, American Material Culture, or about the US environment. You will also choose from a range of politics options, which might cover such topics as: democratic theory, terrorism, power and society, middle-east politics, the global economy or politics and the media.

Year 3

Students spend their third year studying at an American or Canadian university, and also in Australia, New Zealand, or Hong Kong should they choose. For further information please see page 4.

Year 4

In your final year, you will write a research dissertation on a topic of your choice, inspired by your year abroad, and under the guidance of your UEA supervisor after your return. At the heart of the final year there is also a two-semester documents-based special subject which could include options such as American slavery or the politics and culture of the 1960s, Native American history or, the Cold War, or which might focus in on the cultural history of animals in America. You can also choose a class from a wide range of advanced history and interdisciplinary modules about, for example, the years of the Great Society (America during the Presidencies of Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon), the history of the CIA, the history of immigration and migration, or you might choose topics covering culture and crisis in the twenty-first century, youth, gender in American culture, violence in the United States, or more besides. Politics options allow you to delve deeply into some of the defining issues of our times, including such topics as: the American relationship with Asia, media discourse, political communication, multiculturalism, political economy and global capitalism, politics and the environment, and much else.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 TOEFL iBT® test : 88

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• Qualification: BA (Hons)
• A Level: AAB-ABB including B in History
• International Baccalaureate: 33-32 points including 5 in History
• Scottish Highers: At least one Advanced Higher preferred in addition to Highers
• Scottish Advanced Highers: AAB-ABB including Grade B in History
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAABB-AABBBB
• Access Course: Please contact the university for further information
• HND: Please contact the university for further information
• European Baccalaureate: 80-75% including History

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in Reading and Writing with no less than 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 88 overall (minimum 20 in Reading and Speaking components, 19 in Writing component and 17 in Listening components.
• PTE: 62 overall (minimum 55 in Reading and Writing components with no less than 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Students will have the opportunity to meet with an academic on a Visit Day in order to gain a deeper insight into the course(s) you have applied for.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.
Deferred Entry We also welcome applications for deferred entry, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

Students must have an A Level History at Grade B or above (or equivalent qualification).

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

If you have alternative qualifications that have not been mentioned above then please contact university directly for further information.

GCSE Offer

Students are required have Mathematics and English at Grade C or above at GCSE Level.

Assessment

For the majority of candidates the most important factors in assessing the application will be past and future achievement in examinations, academic interest in the subject being applied for, personal interest and extra-curricular activities and the confidential reference. We consider applicants as individuals and accept students from a very wide range of educational backgrounds and spend time considering your application in order to reach an informed decision relating to your application. Typical offers are indicated above. Please note, there may be additional subject entry requirements specific to individual degree courses.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.

Funding

In each year, the School of American Studies offers up to 25% of its students on a Year Abroad, a £1000 Arthur Miller Scholarship. Those students scoring top marks in their A level exams will be considered for one of these awards.

The University will be charging International students £11,700.00 for all full time School of American Studies undergraduate programmes which start in 2012.

The Bachelor of Arts in American History with Politics at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive exploration of the historical development of the United States alongside the functioning of its political system. This interdisciplinary program combines historical analysis with political theory and contemporary political issues, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of American history from its colonial origins to the modern era. The course structure includes modules on key historical periods such as the Revolutionary War, Civil War, the rise of America as a global power, and recent political developments, alongside modules on American political institutions, constitutional law, policy-making processes, and political ideologies. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of the social, cultural, and political forces that have shaped the United States. The program also emphasizes research skills, offering opportunities to undertake independent research projects, participate in debates, and engage with primary source materials. Throughout their studies, students can benefit from access to dedicated academic staff with expertise in American history and politics, as well as participation in seminars, guest lectures, and potential internships related to political organizations or historical institutions. Graduates of this program often pursue careers in government, diplomacy, academia, journalism, or further postgraduate research. The University of East Anglia's campus is equipped with modern facilities and resources to support students' academic journey, and the program's design aims to foster a deep understanding of American history within a political context, preparing students for diverse professional roles or advanced study in related fields.