Social and Cultural History

Social and Cultural History at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth exploration of the diverse social structures, cultural practices, and historical developments that have shaped societies from different periods and regions. This programme is designed to develop a comprehensive understanding of how social identities, cultural expressions, and historical contexts interact and influence one another. Students will engage with a wide range of topics including class, gender, ethnicity, religion, and popular culture, applying critical methods to examine historical sources and interpret social change. The course combines theoretical frameworks with empirical research to foster analytical skills and a nuanced perspective on past and present societal issues. Through lectures, seminars, and independent research projects, students will have opportunities to explore specific themes such as the history of social movements, cultural identities, and the role of technology in shaping societies. The programme also emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies to provide a well-rounded understanding of social and cultural transformations. Graduates will be equipped with the skills necessary for careers in academia, research, heritage, journalism, policy development, and cultural management. By the end of their studies, students will have developed a critical awareness of the complexities of social and cultural history, prepared to contribute thoughtfully to discussions about contemporary societal challenges. The university’s vibrant academic community and extensive resources, including archives and research centres, support students' academic growth and professional development. The programme's flexible curriculum allows for specialization and independent study, encouraging students to pursue areas of personal interest within the broad field of social and cultural history. Overall, the Social and Cultural History programme at the University of Essex aims to cultivate informed, critical thinkers who can analyze historical and social phenomena with insight and scholarly rigor.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our courses are choice and flexibility.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in each year). Each year you take a number of compulsory core credits which give you the necessary training in the discipline; around this core you are free to choose the modules you want to do. Each year there is a wide range of optional modules to choose from.
You can do as much History as you want, but we also encourage you in your first year to choose at least one module in another subject (an A-level subject you really enjoy, or a completely new subject you would like to try out!)This means that if you successfully complete your first year, then you may be qualified to enter the second year of a different course if you wanted to do so: for example, politics, philosophy or sociology, or a joint honours degree, combining History with another subject (providing places are available). It is also possible for you to continue your interest in a subject other than History in your second year, where you have the option of doing a 30-credit module in a different department.
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

• Society, Culture and Politics in Europe 1500-1750
• History Workshop
• And choose 75 credits from a range of History options or outside options.

Year 2

• Making Histories: Concepts, Themes and Sources
• And choose from a range of History options and one optional outside option.

Year 3

• Special Subject
• Independent Research Project
• And choose from a range of History options.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

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

Requirements

• A-levels: ABB-BBB
• GCSE English: C
• IB: 32-30 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
• Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above).
• We welcome applications from students whose A-levels do not include History.

English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

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.

Enroll in the course

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 Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

Social and Cultural History at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth exploration of the ways in which societies have evolved and how cultural practices, social structures, and historical contexts influence contemporary life. This programme combines historical analysis with insights from sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies, providing a multidisciplinary approach to understanding human societies. Students will examine a broad range of topics, including social movements, identity, gender roles, class dynamics, and the impact of globalization, among others. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of historical change and continuity. Through lectures, seminars, and research projects, students engage with primary sources and contemporary interpretations, fostering a comprehensive understanding of social history's complexities. The programme emphasizes the importance of contextualizing historical events within cultural frameworks and encourages students to consider diverse perspectives. Essex's supportive academic environment, combined with access to extensive archives and resources, enhances the learning experience. Graduates of Social and Cultural History commonly pursue careers in education, heritage management, public policy, media, and research. The programme prepares students for further academic study or professional roles that require analytical rigor and contextual awareness. With flexible modular courses, students can tailor their studies to particular interests within social and cultural history. The university’s emphasis on research-led teaching and innovative interdisciplinary techniques ensures students stay at the forefront of the discipline. Overall, the programme aims to equip students not only with historical knowledge but also with critical skills applicable across various sectors, fostering a deep appreciation of the social and cultural forces shaping the past and present.