Course summary

We teach social, cultural, and political history from the early modern period through to the contemporary period, focusing in particular on the British Isles, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and India. Our emphasis is very much on 'doing history'. You'll use primary sources from the very beginning of your studies, and analyse various kinds of historical evidence, including written and oral materials, maps, visual images, feature films, art, and music. You will consider how the use of sources and media representation inform our reconstructions of the past. You will reflect critically on key debates in history, looking at how they have developed over time, and how they have shaped our understanding of the world. You will also learn how historians 'make' history, and evaluate their roles in today's public life, media, and the heritage industry. You'll benefit from our close links with the University's Archives, Records Management, and Museum Services, and be able to examine many original documents first-hand. The use of archives, both physical and online, will allow you to develop your research skills, including palaeography (reading old handwriting), database analysis, project planning, and teamwork. In Levels 1 and 2 you'll also study additional humanities or social science subjects, such as economics, English, philosophy, politics, or psychology.