History BA (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
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Learn about the past whilst developing the type of transferable skills that are highly sought after by employers, including research, content creation, and critical thinking. Study the past, shape the future.

Year of entry

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Part-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years sandwich
Flexible part-time

Course code

V140

Start date

September 2024


Course overview

Coventry University offers an exciting, modern history degree. You will learn about core issues and themes that have shaped the modern world, from race to civil rights, to gender and environmentalism, espionage, the far right, and the media.

  • We have designed the History BA (Hons) to help you understand the historical forces that have shaped the modern world. It looks at how issues such as racism, gender constructs, class, political identities, war, and the environment have intersected, interacted, and evolved to change human societies over time.
  • This course aims to develop your critical thinking skills and analyse themes and voices from a range of marginalised communities. We will encourage you to explore primary (historic) sources.
  • You will also have the opportunity to develop a portfolio of historical pieces, with evidence from media artefacts and your learning. This can come from applying for any international experiences, including collaborative online international learning projects2.
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Joint Top Modern University for Career Prospects

Guardian University Guide 2021 and 2022

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5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

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Top 5 UK Student City (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2023

Why you should study this course

  • Tactile learning – engagement with historical artefacts such as newspapers and other documents to learn about how societies were informed, and shaped.
  • Innovative learning and assessment – learn how to use digital tools to produce documentaries; create video and radio podcasts and develop your digital literacy skills.
  • Critical thinking – a focus on the ways in which critical questioning of the past can help you to understand the social, cultural, and political forces which have shaped societies through the present day.
  • Academic community – the creation of learning experiences built around collaboration and research, taught by a group of historians who are accessible and who work with you to help you build a portfolio of experiences which will aid you in preparing for the post-graduation market or further studies.
  • Specialised topics – specialise in an exciting range of topics and themes within the history programme. These include American history; modern European history; race and civil rights; espionage studies; environmentalism; the history of the media; and the history and politics of the Far Right. 
Joint 1st

for Overall Satisfaction in History Compared to other HEI’s that offer this subject

National Student Survey (NSS) 2022

Coventry Degree Show 2023

The Coventry Degree Show is an annual event to celebrate and showcase our graduating students’ work.

Explore the work of our talented students
Degree show 2023

What you'll study

This course has a common first year.

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first year courses

  • History BA (Hons)
  • History and Politics BA (Hons)
  • International Relations BA (Hons)
  • Politics BA (Hons)
  • Politics and International Relations BA (Hons)

In the first year, the curriculum is shared across related courses allowing you to gain a broad grounding in the discipline before going on, in the second and third years, to specialist modules in your chosen field. 

Modules

  • The aim of this module is to facilitate your transition from pre-university level study and provide preparation and support for academic study at degree level. This module will also introduce you to major themes and concepts that guide your studies in History, Politics, and International Relations. 

    Compulsory

  • This module explores the emergence, evolution, and impact of nationalism and the nation state in the modern period. It traces the origins of nationalism from the Atlantic Revolutions of the late eighteenth century to ‘Brexit’ and the UK’s departure from the European Union. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to introduce you to the ways in which the process of globalisation has altered cultural, social, and economic realities for centuries. This module looks at historical change from the fifteenth century to the present and examines multiple aspects of the emergence of a globalised system that saw ideas, peoples, and goods, exchanged across the world. 

    Compulsory

  • The module provides a survey of the major developments in world politics since the end of the Second World War. It will examine major themes of post-war international politics, such as the Cold War; humanitarian interventions in the post-Cold War; debates about Globalisation; the War on Terror; rise of China; and emergence of populist political narratives. 

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to provide an introduction to the study of political institutions and behaviour post World War II. It examines the theories associated with political systems and institutions that form the framework for political life, and assesses the extent to which these match the reality of practice. 

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to introduce you to key concepts employed in the study of politics and enable you to use these concepts to gain both an insight into the workings of modern political systems and an understanding of the ideas and theories underlying contemporary political structures, movements and debates. 

    Compulsory

In year two, you will continue to develop the skills and knowledge you’ve learnt. We do this by embedding the following four principles into the curriculum and developing your:

  • Technical skills – digital fluency, backed with the right academic knowledge
  • Study skills – to be an adaptive, independent and proactive learner
  • Professional skills – to have the behaviour and abilities to succeed in your career
  • Global awareness – the beliefs and abilities to be a resilient, confident and motivated global citizen

In your second year, you will begin to deepen your knowledge about the history of Europe and the US. You will explore their cultures, conflicts and key social changes. 

Modules

  • This module focuses on the rise of Far-Right political parties in West European countries. The focus will be on the different explanations put forwards for their success or failure to acquire electoral support, their influence on the behaviour of mainstream political parties and politics in general in the case study countries. 

    Compulsory

  • This module charts the professionalisation of Britain's intelligence organisations from the Great Game to the early Cold War. It will examine the formation of the intelligence services in Britain, and their relationship to allies in the United States and enemies in the Soviet bloc. It will also examine cultural depictions of spies and espionage, from Fleet Street to Hollywood. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to explore the major social, cultural, and political forces which led to the emergence of the United States. It will pay particular attention to the ways in which race, class and gender have shaped the country's history, from the colonial period to its rise as a global superpower.

    Compulsory

  • Knowledge of the media and how it operates, especially during wartime, is essential for many reasons. The information the media gathers and disseminates to us as consumers is a vital part of our society, bringing the world beyond our immediate environment to us as readers, listeners and viewers. Historians also rely heavily on the media with journalists often claiming to write ‘the first draft of history’. This module will introduce you to key issues and debates around the media. 

    Compulsory

  • This module explores the human relationship with the natural world, examining the ways in which an emerging Western worldview has affected humanity's impact on its surroundings. It covers topics from the dominant views of nature emanating out of the Scientific Revolution of the Renaissance to the birth of the modern environmental movement and organisations like Greenpeace and the nascent political ideology of Ecologism. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to introduce you to the history of the relations between the major European powers in the twentieth century. The foreign policies of Britain, France, Italy, Germany and the Soviet Union will provide the focus of this module. This module will examine the development of the European states system and thereby provide you with the essential background for understanding contemporary Europe. 

    Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2 can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee3 of £1,250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement.

Whilst we would like to give you all the information about our placement/study abroad offering here, it is often tailored for each course every year and depending on the length of placement or study abroad opportunities that are secured. Therefore, the placement and study abroad arrangements vary per course and per student.  Request further information about going on a placement or study abroad year. 

Modules

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes. 

    Optional

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes. 

    Optional

Year three aims to bring you to the level to enter the world of work by consolidating your knowledge and skills from year one and two.  Your studies could culminate in a dissertation, the production of a documentary film, or by launching a curated exhibition based on your independent research of an area of interest to you. 

You will be asked to choose optional modules to total 120 credits in your final year.

Modules

  • This module is designed to enable you to develop, enhance and put into practice the research and analytical skills acquired in your previous years of study in order to pursue an in-depth analysis of a subject of your own choosing within the context of your programme of study. This can take the form of an extended piece of writing, or a media project such as a documentary film. 

    Optional

  • The module will examine the recent evolution of the traditional criminal organisations in comparative perspective (Sicilian mafia, American Cosa Nostra, Japanese Yakuza and Chinese Triads), the growth of the new wave of organised criminal groups (with a focus on the Balkans, Eastern Europe, Africa and the South American Cartels), the nature of criminality behind the human trade and piracy, the emergence of youth gangs and the evolution of organised crime in the UK.

    Optional

  • The aim of the module is to examine in detail several major themes and developments in post-1945 US foreign policy. These are examined both for their intrinsic importance and interest, and for the light they throw on the foreign policy making process in the US system and on the development of the international system.

    Optional

  • This module will examine the ways in which ethnic minorities have stood up to corrupt, racist power structures across the Americas.  It will pay particular attention to the ways in which suppressed people have empowered themselves and fought to resist white supremacy and the socio-cultural systems that support it.  

    Optional

  • This module will examine the rise to power of the Nazis and their domination of German political life. It will also analyse the changing nature of Nazism and the impact of Nazi ideas on various sectors of society. The priorities of the Nazis and the impact of those priorities on the German people and those who fell under their control in the Second World War will provide the focus of this module. 

    Optional

  • This module explores the political and economic history of the German nation from its division at the end of the Second World War to its reunification in 1990 and beyond. The module examines the international significance of the two German states and their internal developments over the 40 years of division, and the social and economic impact of the subsequent unification on the nation as a whole.  

    Optional

  • This module considers the emergence of the modern environmental movement from the 1960s to the most recent climate change activism of Greta Thunberg and Extinction Rebellion as well as identifying the emergence and impact of climate change denial. It will demonstrate possible sustainable futures with an appraisal of alternative ways of living in search of sustainable futures. 

    Optional

  • The aim of this module is to examine aspects of women’s lives in Britain and the US between 1800 and 1945 using an historical approach that will focus on the following areas of study: working lives and labour relations, education, women’s roles in war, peace campaigning, feminist campaigns. It will explore and compare changes and continuities in the political, social and economic status of women in both countries.  

    Optional

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.


How you'll learn

This course can be offered on a part-time basis. Whilst we would like to give you all the information about our part-time offering here, it is tailored for each course each year depending on the number of part-time applicants. Therefore, the part-time teaching arrangements vary. Request further information about part-time study.

Teaching contact hours

We understand that everyone learns differently, so each of our courses will consist of structured teaching sessions, which can include:

  • On campus lectures, seminars and workshops
  • Group work
  • Self-directed learning
  • Work placement opportunities2.

The number of full-time contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 12 contact hours per week in the first and second year dropping to around 10-12 contact hours per week in the third and final year as you become a more independent learner.

Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study of approximately 15 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

Part of university life is undertaking self-directed learning. During a typical week you will have time that allows you to work independently to apply the skills and knowledge you have learnt in taught or facilitated sessions to your projects or assignment briefs. This self-directed learning allows you to use your research skills, consolidate your knowledge or undertake collaborative group work.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the University may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the University may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

Since COVID-19, we have delivered our courses in a variety of forms, in line with public authority guidance, decisions, or orders and we will continue to adapt our delivery as appropriate. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.


Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.

Assessment methods can include:

  • Phase tests
  • Essays
  • Group work
  • Presentations
  • Reports
  • Projects
  • Coursework
  • Individual Assignments

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.


International experience opportunities

You will have the opportunity to apply to take part in an additional study abroad year2 to provide you with greater experiences and expand your understanding of the subject matter. You will also have the opportunity to take part in Collaborative Online International Learning with peers in international institutions (subject to availability).


Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2024/25 entry.

Requirement What we're looking for
UCAS points 112
A level BBC
GCSE Minimum 5 GCSEs at 4 / C or above including English
BTEC DMM
IB Diploma 29 points
Access to HE The Access to HE Diploma. Plus GCSE English at grade 4 / C or above.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Are you eligible for the Fair Access Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background. Find out more about our Fair Access Scheme.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:


You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.0 overall (with at least 5.5 in each component area)

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Fees and funding

2024/25 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man £9,250 per year Request fee information
EU £9,250 per year with EU support bursary**
£16,800 per year without EU support bursary**
Not available
International £16,800 per year Not available

If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Any optional overseas field trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU support bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.


Facilities

Students will benefit from studying on our well-equipped, modern campus4.

Delia Derbyshire building

Delia Derbyshire Building

The Delia Derbyshire complex offers more space to learn, design and make, including a hyper-studio for students across all disciplines to collaborate on projects together, a gallery space and an events atrium.

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The Library

You will benefit from our support designed to help you succeed and our industry-relevant teaching and resources. These include our modern library and computing facilities, dedicated careers advice and Your Students’ Union.

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Academic support

No matter which degree you’re studying, you’ll find a lot of support on campus, including the Centre of Academic Writing and sigma, which offers mathematics and statistics support.

 


Careers and opportunities

Throughout the course, your academic study will be combined with broad-based skills development.

On successfully completing this course, you will have had the opportunity to develop a range of transferrable skills, which are highly valued by employers, including excellent communications, critical thinking and analysis, strong presentation and listening skills.

We are committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The Talent Team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.

Where our graduates work

Graduates have gone onto various roles as listed:

  • Graduate roles
  • Teaching Careers
  • Working at an NGO or Charity 
  • Local City Council/Government and Politics
  • Civil Service
  • Museum-based roles
  • Media-based careers (eg BBC)
  • Roles in the business and finance sectors

Further study

You can choose to continue your studies at Coventry University with the History MA. You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study.


How to apply

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University. 

    1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2023/2024 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2024/25 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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