BA (Hons) History at Northumbria combines the study of the past with 21-century themes – you will learn to think about how history provides a deeper perspective on present-day challenges, as well as focusing on how these skills can enhance your future employability.

Throughout, you will gain new understanding of present-day concerns, including environmental change, global connectivity, racial and gender equality, war and conflict, and media and culture. With modules on American, African, British, Middle Eastern, and European history, from the Middle Ages to the contemporary, you will follow your academic passions and shape your own degree.

How will my BA (Hons) History degree provide me with the skills needed for my career?

History graduates are especially valued because of their transferable communication skills and the way they evaluate evidence and think critically. You can use your history degree as a platform to launch a career in areas such as finance, law, journalism and the civil service. There are also jobs in museums and archive management, or you can consider becoming a professional researcher by studying further at the postgraduate level.

Whatever you decide to do, you will have strong employability as a result of having acquired the characteristics of a Northumbria graduate. These include critical reflection and self-learning, collaboration and curiosity, and the ability to apply your knowledge to solve problems in ways that are sustainable and ethical.

During the second year of the course, you will have the chance to undertake a work placement in an institution such as a museum, archive, heritage site, or comparable employer. This will give you an awareness of how the skills of historical study can be applied professionally.

You will also have the opportunity to spend a semester in North America or Europe, continuing your historical studies in a new context. You can study a foreign language to assist with this, or travel to broaden your cultural horizons. An international outlook will give you an extra edge in the job market.

Every module will play a role in developing and reinforcing the transferable attributes that are necessary for graduate employment: effective time management, excellent communication, good teamwork and high-level analysis.

Mode of Study

3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad