BA History (Local History)

The Bachelor of Arts in History with a specialization in Local History at the University of Leicester offers students a comprehensive and immersive academic experience focusing on the history of local communities, regions, and specific geographical areas. This programme is designed to deepen students’ understanding of historical developments within local contexts, exploring how local histories intertwine with broader national and global narratives. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research, students will examine primary sources, historical methodologies, and historiographical debates relevant to local history studies. The curriculum covers a diverse range of topics, including urban and rural histories, local governance, cultural heritage, social movements, and regional identities, enabling students to develop a nuanced understanding of local historical processes and their significance in shaping contemporary society. The programme encourages critical analysis of historical sources and promotes the development of essential transferable skills such as research, data analysis, and academic writing. Students will have opportunities to engage with local archives, participate in community-based projects, and undertake independent research based on local historical materials. The degree aims to prepare graduates for careers in heritage management, local government, education, museum curation, publishing, or further academic research. Throughout their studies, students will benefit from the expertise of experienced faculty members with specialized knowledge in local and regional history. The programme’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their coursework to their interests and career aspirations while gaining a solid foundation in historical methods and analysis. Upon graduation, students will possess a strong understanding of the dynamics of local history and its relevance in understanding broader historical contexts, making them well-equipped for diverse professional opportunities or postgraduate study in history and related disciplines.

The MA in Local History at the University of Leicester offers students a comprehensive exploration of historical developments at the local level, emphasizing the importance of community, culture, and societal change. This programme provides an advanced understanding of how local histories shape national narratives and contribute to our collective memory. Students will engage with a wide range of topics, including the socio-economic development of towns and villages, local governance, heritage, urban expansion, and the history of local communities through different periods.

Throughout the course, students will develop essential research skills, learning how to utilize archives, oral histories, local records, and digital resources to construct well-founded historical narratives. The programme encourages critical analysis of historical sources and methodologies, fostering an understanding of regional identities and their evolution over time. By combining theoretical perspectives with practical research opportunities, students will be equipped to undertake independent projects that contribute new insights into local history topics.

The curriculum includes core modules that address key themes such as historiography, research methods, and the history of specific regions, alongside optional modules allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests. These optional modules may cover topics like urban history, social movements, local governance, and the history of industry and trade in specific areas.

Students will also benefit from opportunities to engage with local history organizations, participate in fieldwork, and attend seminars and lectures delivered by experts in the field. The programme aims to produce graduates who are well-prepared for careers in heritage management, museum work, academic research, or further postgraduate study. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, critical thinking, and regional engagement, the MA in Local History provides an ideal platform for those passionate about exploring the historical narratives that have shaped local communities and regions across Britain.

The Bachelor of Arts in English Local History program at the University of Leicester is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the development of local communities within England, emphasizing historical, social, and cultural contexts. To enroll in this program, applicants generally need to meet the university's standard admissions criteria, which typically include a minimum set of academic qualifications such as A-levels, Scottish Highers, or equivalent qualifications from outside the UK. Specific subject requirements often include Humanities or Social Science subjects, but this may vary based on individual applications. For international students, English language proficiency tests such as IELTS or equivalent are required, with minimum scores generally set at 6.5 overall with no element below 6.0.

The program's core modules focus on methods of historical research, analysis of local history sources, and thematic studies covering urban, rural, and regional histories of England. Students are expected to undertake a combination of lectures, seminars, and practical workshops that enhance their research and analytical skills. A significant component involves independent research projects, allowing students to explore specific local historic topics in depth. These projects culminate in a dissertation that demonstrates the student's ability to conduct original research and critically evaluate historical evidence.

In addition to academic modules, students have access to various support services and resources such as the university's archives, libraries, and specialist collections related to local history. Elective modules may include topics like conservation, cultural heritage, and community engagement, designed to broaden students' understanding of the practical applications of historical knowledge. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop transferable skills including critical thinking, data analysis, communication, and teamwork.

The program duration is typically three years for full-time students and up to six years for part-time learners. Graduates of the English Local History program are well-prepared for careers in museums, archives, conservation, local government, or further academic research. Entry into postgraduate study, such as master's or doctoral programs in history or heritage studies, is often facilitated by the knowledge and skills gained during this undergraduate course. The program aims to foster a deep appreciation of England’s local historical landscape and develop competencies that are valued across various sectors related to cultural and historical preservation.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Leicester offers a variety of financing options for students pursuing the Bachelor's degree in English Local History. Prospective students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities, including merit-based awards for academic excellence and need-based grants designed to support those from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The university's Financial Aid Office provides comprehensive guidance on applying for these scholarships, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of the program. Tuition fees for UK and EU students are published annually on the university's official website, with detailed breakdowns available for domestic and international applicants. In addition to scholarships, students can access government-backed student loans, which cover tuition fees and living costs, requiring repayment following graduation based on income levels. Part-time work opportunities on campus are also available, allowing students to gain work experience while earning supplementary income. The university offers financial planning support through workshops and individual advising sessions, helping students budget effectively throughout their studies. International students may be eligible for specific funding programs, including the Leicester International Research Scholarship and other external funding opportunities. Payment plans are available to spread the cost of tuition fees over several installments, making financing more manageable. The university also provides guidance on external funding sources such as government scholarships, private sponsorships, and charitable grants aligned with heritage and history studies. Overall, the University of Leicester is committed to ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent access to its esteemed English Local History program, offering a range of support services and financing options tailored to meet diverse student needs.

The University of Leicester offers a comprehensive program in English Local History that is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the historical development of local communities within England. This program focuses on examining the social, economic, cultural, and political aspects of local history, enabling students to appreciate the diversity and complexity of regional histories across England. Students will explore various sources, including archives, historical texts, and archaeological findings, to build a nuanced understanding of local historical contexts. The curriculum combines theoretical approaches with practical research methods, equipping students with skills applicable to careers in heritage management, archival work, education, and further academic research. Throughout the programme, students are encouraged to engage with current debates and methodologies in local history and to undertake independent research projects. The university provides access to extensive local archives and collections, facilitating hands-on learning experiences. The program typically includes modules on historical geography, local government history, urban and rural community development, and the history of local institutions. Students also have opportunities to participate in field trips, internships, and collaborative projects with local history organizations. The program aims to foster critical thinking, detailed research skills, and a comprehensive understanding of England’s local past, preparing graduates for roles in public history, cultural heritage organizations, or further study in history or related fields. The duration of the program is generally three years for a full-time undergraduate degree, with options for part-time study. Graduates of the English Local History program often find employment in museums, heritage sites, local government, educational institutions, and private research firms, or proceed to postgraduate studies to specialize further in historical research or public history. The University of Leicester’s dedicated faculty members, many of whom are active researchers in local history topics, ensure a rich academic environment that supports student development. The program is designed to be engaging and accessible, with teaching methods including lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual supervision. Students are encouraged to develop meticulous research skills and a critical awareness of the sources and narratives shaping local history. Overall, this program provides a thorough grounding in the history of England’s local communities, fostering both academic knowledge and practical skills that are valuable in numerous professional contexts related to history and cultural heritage.