History and Politics BA (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
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We combine the teaching of comparative 20th century politics and political ideas with modern global, political and social history, with a focus on Britain, Europe and America.

Year of entry

2023-24

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Part-time
Sandwich

Duration

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

Course code

LVF1

Start date

September 2023

How to apply
Book an Open Day
Download a prospectus
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Course overview

This integrated degree brings together the two complementary disciplines of politics and history.

  • The course examines past issues of conflict, poverty, marginalised communities, the environment and gender.
  • It aims to enhance your understanding of today’s socio-political problems and associated decision-making.
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Global Ready

An international outlook, with global opportunities
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Teaching excellence

Taught by lecturers who are experts in their field
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Employability

Career ready graduates, with the skills to succeed

Why you should study this course

  • An exciting course that aims to widen your understanding of modern British and global history and enables you to engage with questions of politics that are of vital concern for today’s world.
  • On successful completion of this course, you could go on to pursue a wide range of careers in the public, private and voluntary sectors in areas like the Civil Service, local government, teaching, museum curation, the media, management, publishing or follow postgraduate study.
  • Uses diverse forms of assessments, including essays, presentations, reports, blog posts and archival analysis. There are no formal written exams.
  • A vibrant and internationalised learning environment, in which students may have the opportunity to go on field trips and spend an additional year abroad or on a work placement in the UK2.
  • Taught by a friendly and skilled teaching team, including respected authors with policy practitioner experience. (Staff subject to change.)

Find out more about our range of history, politics and international relations courses.

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

You will develop more advanced knowledge and skills to do with: liberal democracy, British espionage and the making of the modern United States, amongst others.

Modules

  • 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 the cultural depictions of spies and espionage, from Fleet Street to Hollywood.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of the 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

  • 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

  • This module focuses on politics and the state in different countries and continents. It aims to give you an understanding of liberal democracy in theory and practice, methods of gauging the quality of democracy and transitions towards and away from this particular regime type.

    Compulsory

  • This module provides an introduction to the history of modern political thought. It involves an examination of some of the key political ideas and theories developed by major Western political thinkers from Machiavelli to Marx - ideas and theories that have accompanied various stages in the development of the modern state.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to introduce and analyse the system of government in Britain, with special emphasis on assessing whether these institutions are appropriate for British society in the twenty-first century. The module will also look at recent debates, issues and topics arising within contemporary British political life.

    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.

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.

In year three, you will develop more advanced knowledge and skills to do with: women’s lives in Britain and the US, post-war Germany, and The Green Movement, amongst others.
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

  • This module examines the different natures of the far right in Britain and France. The primary focus for both countries will be, the inter-war period, the different experiences and consequences of World War Two, the 1950s, 1970s up to the current time.

    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. There will be examination and comparison of the changes and continuities in the political, social and economic status of women in both countries during an era of rising democracy.

    Optional

  • This module seeks to highlight the system of government in the United States. It places special emphasis on assessing the political institutions that have evolved from the US constitution, and analysing whether these institutions are appropriate for American society in the twenty-first century.

    Optional

  • This module aims to introduce you to the political challenges facing the countries of Central and Eastern Europe since the end of Communism, especially the unresolved clash between liberal democratic and ethnic nationalist norms. You will be introduced to key debates in both theories of nationalism and theories of democratisation as well as particular events and case study countries.

    Optional

  • This module examines the major political ideologies of the twentieth century in Britain, Europe, North America and the Third World. It provides an in-depth understanding of the main intellectual and political debates within ten influential ideological currents, namely, conservatism, Christian Democracy, far right populism/neo-fascism, liberalism, socialism, the New Left, feminism, ecologism, political Islam and anti-colonialism.

    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.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2023/2024 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. 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

We are keen to offer an internationalised student experience, so provide opportunities for you to study abroad by maintaining our links with some of the most prestigious European universities, such as the Institute of Cultural Diplomacy (ICD) in Berlin, Science Po in Bordeaux, the University of Heidelberg in Germany and Lund University in Sweden. If you do not speak a foreign language, you could have the opportunity to study for one year at an institution where courses are taught in English2.

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.

Requirement What we're looking for
A level BBC
GCSE Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 or above to include 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:

Europe

Americas

Middle East

South Asia

South East Asia

East Asia

Africa

Russia and Central Asia


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

2023/24 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK £9,250 per year Request fee information
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)

  • 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-equipped4, modern campus.

Artist impression of the new FAH building

Arts and Humanities building

We are currently in the process of a major redevelopment of our Faculty of Arts and Humanities buildings. Set to open in 2023, the building will be open to the public, as well as students, and will feature an expansive gallery space.

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Library

The library offers a team of dedicated academic liaison librarians who provide specialist help and support. You’ll also have access to subject specific databases of journal articles related to criminology and forensics.

 

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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. The skills and knowledge you will gain may assist you with careers in government, business, media, lobbying, campaigning, voluntary organisations and international organisations like the United Nations (UN) or the European Commission.

Some of our previous students have secured graduate-level jobs in the Civil Service, international organisations, local government, the media, banking and finance, the culture industry, further and higher education teaching and non-government organisations (NGOs).

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

Our previous graduates work for a range of organisations, including The Office for Environmental Protection; the Sustainable Energy Association; Meggitt Aerospace; the Centre for the New Midlands; L’Oréal; British Transport Police (intelligence analyst); Royal British Legion.

Further study

Alternatively, you may decide to pursue postgraduate study opportunities by studying courses such as History MA or Politics 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 Campus, 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 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 COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the 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 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

    Due to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. The 2023/24 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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