BA (Hons) History

Why study History at ARU?

• Join a course that scored 95% for Teaching on my Course and 91% for Assessment and Feedback in the National Student Survey 2023.
• Build skills that can take you into the world of work, with training in research, data analysis, and communicating your research, using formats from the printed page to podcasts, webpages and exhibitions.
• Learn from trained historians with an international reputation for the work they publish, and attend talks by leading historians and other experts.
• Choose to take a work placement year, to gain invaluable workplace experience.
• Get access to award-winning learning facilities, including our on-campus library and digital resources as well many more resources, libraries and institutions in Cambridge and beyond.

On our BA (Hons) History degree we’ll take you on a journey into the past, looking at the histories of Britain, Europe, the United States and other parts of the world from 1500 onwards. You’ll encounter major historical figures from Henry VIII to Martin Luther King, and explore epoch-making transitions in human experience such as the development of empires, industrialisation and new technology.

Together, we’ll explore major themes such as the impact of revolutions, imperialism and democracy, at the same time exploring the history of everyday life, including changes in the home, consumerism and popular culture. You won’t just study Hitler and Stalin, but also topics such as James Bond and popular literature too.

What can you do with a BA (Hons) History degree? The answer: Almost anything! Former ARU History graduates are now at work in the civil service, teaching, museums and heritage management, the police, the armed forces as well as other rewarding and enjoyable jobs.

You’ll also become skilled in data analysis, research, critical thinking and complex problem solving.

Graduation doesn’t need to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to stay at ARU and study for a Master's, such as our MA History or MA International Relations. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.

Employability and personal career development

Informed by employers, our courses support an integrated approach to employability. You’ll have opportunities to develop the skills and abilities they are looking for and gain a deeper understanding of how your academic learning relates to the world of work through Live Briefs and Ruskin Modules.

To amplify your career ambition, you will need to actively dedicate time outside of your studies, whether you choose to explore placements, internships or volunteering. Or you could make a social impact by collaborating with our partner organisations through our volunteer scheme Students at the Heart of Knowledge Exchange (SHoKE). These all give you an edge, providing you with experience that you will be able to evidence on your CV and talk about in interviews.

Our Employability and Careers Service offers a range of expert advice and support to build your unique professional profile, including tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, and help to complete job applications. You’ll have 24/7 access to the Careers Centre, our comprehensive online digital resource, which empowers you to start building a Personal Career Development Plan from the very start. Design your future at ARU.