Course summary

This four-year degree enables you to explore a wide cross-section of different periods and historically significant worlds. Your studies will span from medieval, early modern and modern history, covering British, Welsh, European, American and World history. History at Swansea is ranked top 20 in the UK for Course Satisfaction (Guardian University Guide 2023) and top 20 in the UK for teaching (NSS 2022). The first year will be spent as a Foundation Year, where you will explore the humanities and social sciences. This is ideal if you need a little more support after further education or if you are returning to education after a gap. You will then progress onto the full degree. Whether your true passion lies in medieval Europe, revolutionary America or the cold war, you can choose from wide ranging themes and modules. These include studies in gender, sexuality and inequalities, heritage, memory, medicine, health and disability, war, violence and peace. Based on our stunning Singleton Park campus overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the Gower Peninsula, Swansea is a perfect gateway to the medieval past. Within a short journey are magnificent castles such as Pembroke and Manorbier, as well as medieval churches and fortresses in the Gower. The second year gives you a chance to study abroad for a semester in the USA, Canada, China, Hong Kong or Singapore and later studies are shaped by modules around your specific historical interest and a substantial dissertation project. A range of work placement programmes throughout the course are available to help prepare you for graduate life. Teaching is informed by a vibrant and supportive research environment of academics, students and visiting scholars. Students are also involved in wider university clubs and societies including the History Society, which organises social events and cultural activities. Our History students typically develop effective oral and writing skills through presenting ideas in different formats, supported by strong research and analysis skills. They go on to work in a variety of career sectors including education, media and public relations, heritage and museums, business and management, law, and public services. “I chose History at Swansea as the course offers a great variation of topics and the modules are really interesting. They stretch from the ancient empires of China and India, to the Second World War. The expertise of the lecturers is second to none.” – Alistair Kirk. Please visit our course page for more information. https://www.swansea.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/culture-communication/history/ba-history-foundation-year/