Newcastle University

Politics and History BA Honours
UCAS Code: VL12 (3 Years)

• Course Overview
• Modules
• Entry Requirements
• Careers
• Finance

This degree allows you to develop an interest in particular approaches to the study of history or politics, or to concentrate on different areas of the world from both an historical and a political perspective.

You divide your studies equally between politics and history, and each offers a very broad range of topics to choose from.

You will explore and evaluate many forms of evidence, including written and material records and oral testimony, and develop skills in critical analysis, communication and research that will be valuable in a variety of careers.

Teaching and assessment

Politics at Newcastle has an international reputation for its research which feeds directly into your teaching. In the School of History, Classics and Archaeology, the research areas that our historians are currently pursuing also has an influence on your choice of optional modules. Our extremely broad range of research-informed topics will introduce you to ideas and opportunities and to the histories of people and places that you may never have considered before.

Assessment involves a range of forms of course work, such as documentary commentaries, group presentations, literature reviews and essays, as well as written examinations. During Stage 3 you produce a research-based dissertation, and take two workshop-style modules where you deal principally with historical documents, as well as a module designed to examine how history is written.

Teaching and assessment methods may vary from module to module; more information can be found in our individual module listings. 

Flexible degree structure

This degree offers you flexibility to follow your own interests rather than follow a prescribed course of study. 

You can also choose topics from other subjects within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, such as archaeology, classics, philosophy or a modern language. Languages are particularly useful if you want to become a professional historian. 

Study abroad

UK and EU students have the opportunity to broaden their academic experience by taking part in a study abroad exchange in either Stage 2 or Stage 3.

Facilities

You will have access to a range of quality facilities on campus including libraries, computing facilities and award-winning museums. These include:

• the University's award-winning Library Service, including historical Special Collections used in our teaching
• dedicated historical libraries and library collections such as the Cowen Library, Classics Library, Shefton Collection and the Gertrude Bell Archive 
• world-class treasures at the University-led, multiple award-winning Great North Museum
• Northern Centre for the History of Medicine

Studying at Newcastle

As a joint honours student at Newcastle, you will divide your time between our School of History, Classics and Archaeology in the Armstrong Building and Politics in the Politics Building.

You will have the opportunity to participate in a range of social and other activities outside your study programme, many of which are organised by the student-run Politics and History societies.

To make sure you feel at home at Newcastle, we have an active system of student support, including a personal tutor and peer mentor to offer guidance and support throughout your degree.