COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA History course at Essex is structured to provide a comprehensive and flexible education in historical study across three years. In the first year, students begin with core modules such as Rebellious Pasts: Challenging and Creating Histories and Early Modern Europe in Global Context, which introduce key historical themes, methods, and global perspectives. Alongside these, students choose optional history and interdisciplinary modules to broaden their understanding of specific topics, while also engaging in skills development through Beyond the BA: Skills for the Next Step. The second year builds on this foundation with a core research-focused module, Exploring History: Research Workshop, which develops students’ analytical and methodological skills, preparing them for independent study and advanced research. Students continue to select optional history modules or outside options, allowing them to tailor their learning to individual interests, while also participating in Beyond the BA: Building Career and Employability Readiness to enhance professional skills. In the third year, the program culminates in a substantial Research Project, providing the opportunity for independent investigation and synthesis of knowledge. Additional optional modules allow for specialization, while Beyond the BA: Preparing for Life as a Graduate ensures students are ready to transition confidently into careers or further study. This structure equips students with research, critical thinking, and communication skills, preparing them for a wide range of professional pathways.