Politics and History

Politics and History at Brunel University London offers students a comprehensive and dynamic exploration of the key issues shaping our world today. This interdisciplinary programme combines rigorous study of political theories, institutions, and practices with an in-depth understanding of historical developments that have shaped contemporary societies. Students will develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of how historical contexts influence current political landscapes. The programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in public service, policy analysis, journalism, international relations, and academia. Throughout the course, students will engage with a diverse range of topics including government and politics, international relations, human rights, conflict resolution, and the history of Britain, Europe, and the wider world. Emphasis is placed on developing research expertise, written communication, and debate skills, preparing graduates to engage thoughtfully and effectively with complex political and historical issues. The programme also offers opportunities for practical experience through internships and placements, as well as access to Brunel’s extensive library resources and expert faculty. Whether you are passionate about understanding the foundations of political systems or exploring the historical forces that have shaped our societies, this programme provides a solid foundation and an exciting academic journey. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue careers in government, NGOs, research organisations, journalism, or further academic study. With an innovative curriculum, experienced teaching staff, and a vibrant student community, Politics and History at Brunel is ideal for students eager to make a difference in the world through a deep understanding of its political and historical contexts.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 13000 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU students: £9,000 full-time; £1,000 placement year Start date September 2015 Duration:3-year full-time; 4-year thick-sandwich Credits (ECTS) 360 ECTS
Duration full-time 36 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time

Course Content

This degree draws on the skills and expertise of all the disciplines that make up the Department of Politics, History and Law. In addition to the Politics half of the course, and the writing of a dissertation at Level 3, you will take modules in historiography and historical skills, and select modules covering a wide variety of historical periods and substantive themes.

Typical Modules

Please note that module availability is subject to change.
Level 1 Core

• Political Science Methods
• Central Themes in Political Thought
• Modern British Politics
• What is History?

Level 1 Options

• Revolution, Liberty and the Origins of American Democracy
• Capital Labour and Power: Britain 1707-1939
• History, Memory and Culture in Europe since 1789
• The Making of the Modern World
• Migration and the Settler World 1600-1914

Level 2 Core

• Comparative Politics
• Historians and their Craft

Level 2 Options

• Democracy and Democratisation
• Total War in the Modern Era
• Asia-Pacific International Relations: Modern East-West Encounters
• US Foreign Policy from World War II to the end of the Cold War
• Issues in American Politics
• International Relations
• The Holocaust
• The Birth of Industrial Britain, 1750-1850
• Slavery and Abolition in the Atlantic World

Level 3 Core

• Dissertation (this may be taken in Politics, or jointly between Politics and History)
• European Union Politics: Problems and Prospects

Level 3 Options

• Globalisation and Governance
• Empire, Imperialism, Hegemony
• Media, Power and Politics in America
• Marx and Marxism
• India and the World: the International Relations of a Rising Power
• Fascism
• Parties and Voters in the UK
• Intelligence and National Security
• Theory and Practice of Cultural Diversity
• The Second World War
• The History and Politics of Heritage
• History, Travel and the Sea
• The Arab-Israeli Conflict
• Rethinking Modern Europe: Borders, Nations and Identities since 1850

Final year dissertation

Students produce a 12,000 word dissertation on a subject of their choice. This major piece of work will give you a valuable opportunity to demonstrate research and writing skills. It is written on a subject relevant to your particular course of study and may well relate to your future career plans.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 CAE score : 60(Grade C) TOEFL paper-based test score : 580 TOEFL iBT® test : 92

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

take an IELTS test. More About IELTS

Requirements

• GCE A-level AAB – ABB. Typical offer AAB, including Grade B in A-level History or a related subject

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma D*D*D in a related subject

• BTEC Level 3 Diploma D*D in a related subject with an A-level at grade A.

• BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma D in a related subject with A-levels grade AA.

• International Baccalaureate Diploma 35 points, including Higher Level 5 in History or related subject

• Access to Higher EducationDiploma Complete and pass a related subject Access course with 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 credits must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit or higher.

GCSE Mathematics grade C and GCSE English grade C are also required.

Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants within our grade range as well as our full GCSE requirements and accepted equivalencies in place of GCSE’s.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 (min 5.5 in all areas)

• Pearson: 58 (51 in all subscores)

• BrunELT: 65% (min 55% in all areas)

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 Brunel University.

This program offers students an in-depth understanding of Politics and History, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Students will explore a wide range of political theories, governmental systems, and historical events that have shaped the modern world. The curriculum covers areas such as international relations, political philosophy, comparative politics, and the history of Britain, Europe, and the wider world. Students are encouraged to critically analyze political ideologies, policy developments, and the socio-economic factors influencing historical change. The program incorporates a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research projects. Students will also engage with primary and secondary sources, develop critical thinking skills, and enhance their ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in politics, diplomacy, journalism, education, and public service, among other fields. Opportunities for internships, placements, and study abroad are integrated into the course to provide real-world experience and a global perspective. Assessment methods include essays, presentations, exams, and research projects, fostering diverse academic skills. The faculty comprises experts with extensive research backgrounds in political science and history, ensuring students benefit from high-quality teaching and mentorship. The university’s resources, including libraries, archives, and dedicated research centers, support students’ academic growth. Overall, this program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of political and historical processes, critical analytical skills, and practical experience, making it ideal for those passionate about understanding how societies function and evolve.