History and Politics MA (Hons)

At Dundee, History and Politics isn’t confined to textbooks — it’s about discovering how ideas and events come alive in the real world. You’ll explore history through authentic sources and contemporary politics through simulations, projects, and real advocacy work. From short internships to campaigns that make a genuine impact, this course is designed to help you apply what you learn and develop the confidence to think and act like a professional researcher, analyst, or policymaker.

You’ll have access to a range of immersive experiences and university resources that bring learning to life:

• Micro-Internship Module (AG22037): Gain hands-on experience through a 30-hour placement with an organisation — such as a council, NGO, or heritage body — supported by the university’s Careers Service.

• Human Rights Advocacy Internship (PO42017): Collaborate with Scholars at Risk to design and run a real campaign promoting freedom and human rights, combining teamwork, research, and practical action.

• Political Simulations & Field Engagements: Some modules include EU politics simulations, policy workshops, or field projects where you work as a team to solve real political problems.

• Primary Source Research: In history modules, you’ll analyse original letters, maps, recordings, and artefacts — developing the ability to interpret the past directly from its evidence.

• Career & Internship Support: Dundee’s JobShop lists over 8,000 work and internship opportunities each year, and a subject-specific careers adviser helps tailor your applications and connect you with employers.

•  Networking & Recruitment Fairs: With seven employer fairs held annually on campus, you’ll have the chance to meet recruiters from government, NGOs, and international organisations.

These experiences ensure that by the time you graduate, you’ll not only understand how history and politics shape the world — you’ll have lived it, analysed it, and contributed to it.

Graduating with a History & Politics degree from Dundee gives you more than knowledge — it gives you perspective, adaptability, and the confidence to shape the world around you. Our graduates go on to influence public policy, lead research projects, and drive change in communities around the globe. You could pursue careers as a Policy Analyst, Historical Researcher, Public Affairs Consultant, or Advocacy Officer, all rooted in the analytical and communication skills developed during your studies.

At Dundee, your success after graduation is a shared priority — here’s how the university helps you build your career:

• Dedicated Careers Service: You’ll receive personal support from a subject-specific careers adviser who helps you plan your path, build your CV, and prepare for interviews.

• JobShop Opportunities: Access over 8,000 internships, part-time jobs, and graduate roles listed each year — all curated for Dundee students.

•  Employer Networking: Meet leading organisations at seven annual recruitment fairs, connecting you directly with over 250 employers from across the UK and beyond.

• Strong Graduate Outcomes: Dundee consistently ranks Top in Scotland for highly skilled employment (87.4%), and nearly 90% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months.

• Long-Term Value: Your degree builds lifelong skills — critical thinking, research, and persuasive communication — that are valued across industries like government, media, heritage, and education.

• Professional Connections: The School of Humanities, Social Sciences & Law has close ties with civic bodies, NGOs, and policy institutions, helping students access valuable networking and project opportunities.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your undergraduate studies, you could continue with postgraduate degrees such as an MA or MSc in Political Theory, Public Policy, or International Relations, or pursue PhD research in History or Politics. Many graduates also go on to study Law or Education, or work in the Civil Service, Museums, or Journalism, building on the analytical mindset and global awareness you develop at Dundee.