COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA History degree at the University of Northampton is structured over three years, providing students with a combination of compulsory and optional modules to develop a broad and in-depth understanding of historical events, themes, and perspectives. In the first year, students take a compulsory module, Themes and Perspectives in History, alongside five optional modules covering a wide range of topics such as the Early Modern World, the Holocaust, the Medieval World, Health and Healers, United States history, British politics and society, and European events from 1890-1914. This year introduces students to key historical skills and methodologies while allowing them to explore areas of personal interest. In the second year, students undertake two compulsory modules, Dissertation Research Skills and Communicating History, complemented by five optional modules examining empire, migration, crime, family life, aristocracy, poverty, and terrorism. This stage emphasizes research, analysis, and effective historical communication. The third year focuses on independent study and professional application, with compulsory modules including the History Dissertation and Using History, alongside three optional modules exploring subjects such as citizenship, gender, crime, witchcraft, intelligence, the country house, and political movements. Across all three years, students develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, gaining the ability to interpret evidence, construct coherent arguments, and apply historical knowledge in both academic and professional contexts.