COURSE CURRICULUM

The History and Politics BA (Hons) at Northumbria University is structured over four years, providing a combination of core and optional modules with opportunities for practical experience and international study. In the first year, students develop foundational knowledge through core modules covering the making of contemporary Europe, late medieval and early modern Europe, historical methods, political systems, international relations, and political thinking, with academic language support for international and EU students. The second year introduces core modules on democracy and global governance while offering a wide range of optional modules, including US history, European conflicts, the Holocaust, revolutionary France, migration and multiculturalism in Britain, and practical politics through fieldwork, study abroad, or career preparation. The third year focuses on experiential learning with optional full-year work placements or study abroad to gain professional and cultural experience. In the final year, students pursue advanced optional modules and independent research projects, including joint honours or public history dissertations, exploring topics such as American and British history, urban life, Italian fascism, environmental and security issues, genocide, media and propaganda, terrorism, and contemporary politics. Across all four years, the program emphasizes research, analytical, and communication skills, combining academic rigor with practical experience to prepare graduates for careers in politics, public service, research, or further study.