This joint honours degree combines the History and Politics and International Relations courses and aims to address issues where the two intersect, examining how political theory has shaped our world today. Both faculties have incredible library resources, in addition to a dynamic department with a diverse range of interests, meaning that the optional papers offered each year cater to a wide range of research interests.
For a joint honours degree, the History and Politics course is relatively large, with around 60 places given per year. One-quarter of applicants received an offer over the last few years, with a relatively even split of female and male students. Every year you will take four papers from a selection of History, Politics and International Relations, and (specifically designed) History and Politics modules.
In your first year, you take an ‘outline’ History paper, a broad overview of a time/place (most likely in Europe, the US, Africa, or Asia). You will also take two Politics papers examining issues in global politics and state justice. In addition to these, you will take a mandatory paper that aims to develop your critique and debate skills.
In second year, you take a paper in international politics, a politics history paper, and an additional specialised history topic. Your fourth paper will be a mini dissertation of up to 5,000 words.
In third year, you have complete freedom to choose three papers from a vast list. You have the option of replacing one of these with a dissertation of 10,000 words on a topic of your own choice. You will also sit a core paper called 'Theory and Practice' which summarises the debates and issues raised throughout the degree course.
Most colleges require no specific A-Level (or equivalent) subjects, though some may ask for you to have formally studied History. It is probably useful to take at least one essay-based subject. This degree will show employers that you can research your own topics, critique sources, and debate important issues. Previous graduates have found employment in media, law, public policy, corporate, teaching, and community work.
