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The Bachelor of Arts in Modern History and Politics at the University of Southampton offers students a comprehensive understanding of contemporary historical developments and political theories that have shaped the modern world. This interdisciplinary programme combines rigorous historical analysis with critical political studies, enabling students to explore a wide range of topics including international relations, government, political ideologies, and significant historical events from the 19th century to the present day. Throughout the course, students develop essential skills such as analytical thinking, research methodologies, and effective communication, preparing them for careers in journalism, public policy, diplomacy, academia, and beyond. The programme features a diverse selection of modules, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests like European politics, global conflicts, human rights, or political philosophy, while also gaining a broad overview of modern history’s key themes and processes. Students benefit from access to extensive archival resources, expert academic staff, and opportunities for internships or collaborative projects that enhance practical experience. The curriculum is designed to foster critical engagement with complex political and historical issues, encouraging students to develop well-informed perspectives and a nuanced understanding of the forces shaping our world today. With a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research, graduates of this programme will be well-equipped to pursue further academic study or enter professional fields where an in-depth knowledge of modern history and politics is essential. The programme’s flexible structure allows students to start building a global or regional perspective, helping them to become active and informed citizens capable of analyzing current events through the lens of historical context and political theory.
Detailed Course Facts
Application deadline EEA:January; International (non-EU) : June Tuition fee- GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
- GBP 14660 Year (Non-EEA)
- English
Course Content
Programme StructureCombined degree structure as for RV11/RV21/RV41This is the most popular of the combined history degrees, and includes core skills modules and a range of options in politics, alongside complementary modern history modules exploring state structures and political ideologies in British, European, American and Asian contexts.- In your final year, choose to write a dissertation on a subject of your choice in either Modern History or Politics.
- Add breadth to your degree and pursue varied interests by taking the option to complete 25 per cent of your programme in another subject.
Typical course content
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 from 3 A levels with a grade A in History and A in Extended Project Qualification.
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.
Selection process:
Intake: 150 Average applicants per place: 8
Selection process: UCAS application
Work Experience
No work experience is required.
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.
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.
Modern History and Politics at the University of Southampton offers students an in-depth exploration of historical developments and political theories that have shaped the modern world. The programme combines rigorous historical research with the study of contemporary political issues, providing a comprehensive understanding of how past events influence present policies and societal structures. Students engage with a diverse range of topics, including European history, national and international politics, political ideologies, and governmental institutions. The curriculum is designed to develop analytical and critical thinking skills, enabling students to interpret complex historical and political phenomena.
The programme includes lectures, seminars, and independent research projects, encouraging active participation and intellectual curiosity. Students have access to extensive resources, including a well-stocked library, online databases, and expert faculty members with extensive research backgrounds. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to examine primary sources and develop their own arguments supported by evidence. Many modules incorporate case studies, fostering real-world applications of theoretical concepts.
Additionally, students are supported in their career development through various workshops, placements, and networking opportunities. The university's connections with governmental organisations, historical archives, and think tanks provide practical experiences that enhance employability. Graduates of the programme have gone on to pursue careers in academia, journalism, public policy, diplomatic service, and international organizations.
The programme duration is typically three years for a full-time undergraduate degree, with options for part-time study. Students may also have opportunities to study abroad or undertake work placements. The university emphasizes a student-centered learning environment, with small class sizes that facilitate personalized attention and mentoring.
Overall, the Modern History and Politics programme at the University of Southampton prepares students not only to understand historical and political processes but also to become informed and engaged citizens capable of analyzing and addressing contemporary issues with historical insight and political awareness. The combination of historical depth and political analysis aims to develop well-rounded graduates equipped for diverse career pathways or postgraduate study.