BA (Hons) History and American Studies at Northumbria combines the study of the past with themes of American society, culture, and politics. You will learn to think about how history provides a deeper perspective on present-day challenges, and apply these ideas to aspects of the American present, as well as focusing on how these skills can enhance your future career options.You will gain new understanding of present-day concerns, including environmental change, racial and gender equality, war and conflict, and economics and health. You will also have the opportunity to delve into African, British, Middle Eastern, and European history, with options taking you from the medieval to the contemporary world.

Our degree sets you on a path towards a wide range of future careers. We give all students a chance to work on a placement with a local business or cultural partner, and our unique module on place and heritage helps you learn about policy making in the real world. More broadly, as you explore new approaches to understanding conflict and society, past and present, in the Americas and beyond, you will be prepared for many future careers. Recent alumni work in jobs that range from barrister or property manager to university researcher to archive manager, author, teacher, and much more.

You will be taught by leading researchers in the field. Our historians were ranked 10th in the UK for the quality of their published research in the Research Excellence Framework, 2021. You also develop your own research skills, leading to a dissertation in your final year that will give you a voice in contemporary historical debates and build your confidence as you think about your own career after graduation.You will also have the option of extending your studies, either taking a placement year in industry or opting to study abroad in continental Europe or North America.

This extended degree provides an alternative route to higher education and supports those who don’t meet the standard entry requirements for an undergraduate degree. It includes a foundation year where you will explore a wide range of topics taken from across the real-world subject areas such as history, literature, language and linguistics, creative writing and American studies.

Immersed in a stimulating and challenging learning environment, in your foundation year you will explore a wide range of key areas, including history, literature, film, philosophy, and politics, as well as the digital humanities. Teaching methods include lectures, workshops and seminars, guided study and self-directed learning. You will learn to share ideas with your peers and work as a productive member of a team. Guest speakers from across the humanities will put what you have learnt into context and give you a real-world perspective.