History

The BA (Hons) History programme at the University of Southampton offers students a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of the past, equipping them with a broad understanding of historical events, themes, and developments from ancient times to the modern era. Designed to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication, this course enables students to delve into diverse historical periods and geographical regions, encouraging a nuanced and contextualized understanding of human history. Throughout the programme, students will engage with a wide range of sources, including primary documents, archaeological findings, and multimedia resources, to develop their interpretative skills and deepen their knowledge of historical processes. The curriculum combines core modules that provide foundational knowledge—covering key themes such as political history, social history, economic change, and cultural developments—with specialized electives that allow students to pursue specific interests, whether that be European history, American history, Asian history, or other areas. The programme also emphasizes the development of research skills through dissertation projects and independent study, preparing graduates for careers in education, research, museum work, publishing, or further academic study. The modern campus facilities, experienced academic staff, and vibrant student community provide an engaging environment for learning and personal growth. Students benefit from placements, study abroad opportunities, and participating in seminars, workshops, and conferences that enhance their academic experience. By the end of their studies, graduates will possess a critical understanding of historical processes, the ability to conduct independent research, and the skills necessary to interpret complex information—making them well-equipped for diverse professional pathways or postgraduate study in history or related disciplines.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 14660 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

• • In your first year you will take core modules on historical and analytical skills and key conceptual tools for historians. You will also select modules from options covering the ancient to near contemporary world, exploring the development of a historical topic over time, and analysing sources for its study.
• • In your second year you will choose modules from a wide range of ancient, medieval or modern topics, and undertake a group project involving first-hand research
• • In your final year you will study in-depth a key historical theme, and complete a dissertation on a research topic of your choice
• • Add breadth to your degree and pursue varied interests by taking the option to complete 25 per cent of your programme in another subject

The history undergraduate programme is modular. This means that your programme is divided into self-contained modules taught and assessed in a single semester. Taught modules may be single (two hours teaching a week), or double (three to four hours teaching a week, depending on the type of module).

Innovation modules outside of your subject area

Our Curriculum Innovation Programme offers you the chance to take optional modules outside of your chosen subject area. This allows you to personalise your education, to develop new skills and knowledge for your future. Modules range from "Living and working on the web" to "Business skills for employability".

Learn a language

Some of our courses also give you the option of taking a language module, which can count towards your degree. These modules cover ten languages and range from absolute beginner to near-native speaker level.

Requirements

A Levels:

AAB from 3 A levels with a grade A in History

or

ABB, including A in History and A in Extended Project

General Studies is not accepted.

We are also able to consider excellent candidates able to meet our AAB offer but who are not studying History at A-level, though such applicants especially should use the personal statement to show their interest in and aptitude for History.

IB:

34 points, 17 at higher level, including 6 in higher level History

We are also able to consider excellent candidates able to meet our overall offer but who are not studying History at higher level, though such applicants especially should use the personal statement to show their interest in and aptitude for History.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not currently meet our entry requirements may be able to join this course on successful completion of our International Foundation Year. For more information visit the IFY course page

Selection process:

Intake: 150 Average applicants per place: 8

Selection process: UCAS application

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 Southampton.

The History undergraduate program at the University of Southampton offers students a comprehensive exploration of past events, societies, and cultures, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. The program covers a wide range of historical periods, from ancient civilizations to modern times, allowing students to develop a deep understanding of historical developments and their impacts on contemporary society. Students have the opportunity to study various geographic regions, including Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas, providing a global perspective on historical processes. The curriculum combines core modules that establish foundational knowledge in historical methods and interpretation with specialized options that enable students to tailor their studies according to their interests, whether it be political history, cultural history, social movements, or economic transformations.

The program is designed to enhance research skills through access to extensive archives, libraries, and digital resources. Throughout their studies, students engage in independent research projects, essays, and presentations, preparing them for careers in education, research, journalism, public history, and cultural heritage sectors. The program also emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as critical analysis, communication, and teamwork, which are valuable in many professional contexts. Students benefit from experienced academics who are active researchers, bringing up-to-date insights and scholarly expertise into the classroom. Moreover, the university offers various modules on historical theory, historiography, and methodology to deepen students' understanding of the discipline.

The university encourages students to undertake a year abroad or a work placement, enhancing cultural awareness and practical experience. Study abroad options are available in countries such as the USA, Australia, and across Europe. The program's structure typically spans three years for full-time students, with opportunities for placement or second-year abroad options, and can be extended for sandwich years. Graduates from the History program at Southampton are well-prepared to pursue careers in education, archiving, museums, publishing, journalism, or continue their studies at postgraduate level. The university's dedicated support services, including academic advisors and career guidance, assist students throughout their studies to maximize their academic and professional development.

The integration of digital technologies and innovative teaching methods enriches the learning experience, ensuring students are equipped with modern skills to analyze both traditional and digital sources. The department fosters a vibrant academic community through events, seminars, and guest lectures that connect students with leading historians and industry professionals. Overall, the History undergraduate program at Southampton aims to cultivate knowledgeable, critical, and engaged scholars who can contribute thoughtfully to understanding the complexities of the past and its relevance to today's world.