COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA Politics and Modern History degree at Aberystwyth University provides students with an interdisciplinary education combining political science and modern historical studies. In the first year, students engage with core modules in politics and history, developing foundational knowledge in international concepts, contemporary political systems, and historical methods, while options allow exploration of global developments, media, and European history. The second year deepens understanding through core modules on comparative politics and historical research, alongside a wide range of optional modules covering topics such as political ideologies, international relations, wars, revolutions, human rights, environmental history, and the social and political history of Britain, Europe, and beyond. This approach allows students to examine the interplay between historical events and political ideas, including the development of political thought and the formation of modern political structures. In the final year, students complete a dissertation in either history or politics and select from advanced modules that explore key historical periods, international conflicts, and contemporary political challenges, as well as social, cultural, and economic histories. The degree encourages critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to analyse complex political and historical phenomena, equipping graduates with a comprehensive understanding of the modern world and strong transferable skills for careers in policy, research, public service, and international organisations.