History and Politics of the Americas with a Year Abroad

The History and Politics of the Americas with a Year Abroad at University College London offers students a comprehensive exploration of the historical developments, political structures, and social dynamics that have shaped the Americas from indigenous societies to contemporary issues. This interdisciplinary programme combines rigorous historical analysis with an understanding of political theories and practices, providing students with a nuanced perspective on the diverse nations and cultures within the American continent. Throughout the course, students will examine key themes such as colonization, independence movements, the socio-economic transformations over centuries, and the ongoing challenges faced by nations in the Western Hemisphere. The inclusion of a Year Abroad allows students to immerse themselves directly in the cultural and political environment of an American country, enhancing language skills and cultural awareness while gaining firsthand experience of foreign academic and societal contexts. The programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of the complex histories and political ideologies that continue to influence the Americas today. Students will engage with a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, and research projects, and will have access to extensive archives, libraries, and online resources. Upon successful completion, graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for careers in international relations, policy analysis, academia, journalism, or further postgraduate study. This programme is ideal for students interested in understanding the dynamic histories and political landscapes of the Americas, with an emphasis on critical analysis and intercultural competence.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Our aim is to provide a thorough grounding and opportunities for specialisation in history and politics. Alongside the development of disciplinary expertise, the degree programme promotes cross-disciplinary insight. You will learn how polities and societies evolve, how different disciplinary perspectives relate to each other, and how these perspectives can combine to give a more nuanced understanding of the Americas and their global relevance.

In years one and two you will take two core modules each year plus options in history and politics. You will also have the opportunity to study a language relevant to your year-abroad destination.

You will spend year three studying relevant modules at a host institution in North America, Latin America or the Caribbean.

In your final year, you will take an advanced module, designed to encourage you to engage with contemporary issues and share your knowledge with audiences outside UCL. You will also complete a dissertation and take history and politics optional modules.

A levels

Grades

AAA

Subjects

No specific subjects.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

38

Subjects

A score of 18 points in three higher level subjects, with no score lower than 5.

The University College London (UCL) offers various funding opportunities for students enrolled in the History and Politics of the Americas with a Year Abroad program. Prospective students can explore a range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options aimed at supporting both domestic and international applicants. UCL provides scholarships specifically targeted at supporting students studying in the Faculty of Social and Historical Sciences, which encompasses the Department of History. These include merit-based scholarships awarded based on academic excellence, as well as need-based bursaries designed to assist students from lower-income backgrounds.

In addition to institutional funding, students are encouraged to seek external financial support, such as government grants, national bursaries, and international scholarships. For UK students, the Student Loans Company offers maintenance loans and tuition fee loans, which are available to eligible candidates. International students may explore funding opportunities from their home governments or international organizations that provide aid for students studying abroad.

The Year Abroad component may entail additional costs relating to travel, accommodation, and living expenses in partner countries. UCL advises students to budget accordingly and consider applying for additional financial support where available. Some students may also explore part-time work options permitted under their visa status to supplement their income during studies. UCL’s Careers Service provides guidance on employment and internships relevant to students’ academic interests, which can help finance their studies.

Overall, financing a degree at UCL requires careful planning, and students are encouraged to utilize the university’s dedicated financial guidance services early in their application process. The university’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity is reflected in a broad range of funding options designed to minimize financial barriers for talented students from diverse backgrounds.

The Bachelor of Arts in History and Politics of the Americas with a Year Abroad at University College London offers students an in-depth exploration of the historical developments, political systems, and social changes across North, Central, and South America. This interdisciplinary programme combines rigorous historical analysis with a comprehensive understanding of political theories and contemporary issues affecting the Americas. Throughout the course, students engage with a diverse range of topics, including indigenous histories, colonialism, independence movements, modern political institutions, and socio-economic challenges faced by the nations within the continent. The Year Abroad component provides an invaluable opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the cultural and political landscape of a country within the Americas, enhancing their linguistic skills and intercultural understanding. This foreign placement also encourages practical engagement with political institutions, NGOs, or cultural organizations, thereby enriching academic learning with real-world experience. The curriculum is designed to promote critical thinking, research skills, and an understanding of the complex interplay between history and politics. Students have access to UCL’s extensive library resources and graduate research facilities, allowing for in-depth study and project work. The programme also prepares students for careers in international relations, policy analysis, journalism, academia, or further academic research. It emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging students to analyze historical context alongside current political developments for a well-rounded perspective. With a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent study, the programme fosters an engaging learning environment. Overall, this degree is ideal for students passionate about understanding the historical and political dynamics of the Americas and seeking international experience through the Year Abroad.