History and Politics BA

Studying History and Politics at Oxford is not just about lectures and reading — it’s about immersing yourself in a world of ideas and learning to apply them in practice. You’ll be taught through the hallmark Oxford tutorial system, where you sit down in small groups with leading academics to debate your essays, sharpen your arguments, and get personalised feedback. Alongside this, you’ll have access to extraordinary resources like the Bodleian Library, the Modern History Faculty Library, and archives that house some of the richest collections in the world. The course also encourages independent research, letting you investigate topics that truly inspire you and present your findings with confidence.

To make your learning journey even more hands-on, Oxford provides a range of opportunities and facilities:

• Tutorial system: One-to-one or very small group teaching where you discuss essays directly with experts.

• Independent research projects: Undertake original research in your final year dissertation, drawing on Oxford’s archives and special collections.

• Libraries & digital resources: Unrestricted access to the Bodleian Library system, History Faculty Library, and digital databases for historical and political research.

• Quantitative methods training: Develop practical skills in data analysis and statistical reasoning, increasingly valued in political careers.

• Student societies: Join active student-run societies like the Oxford Union or PPE Society to debate, network, and apply political knowledge beyond the classroom.

• Career-linked opportunities: Explore internships, summer schools, and study-abroad placements supported by the Careers Service, helping you test out career paths in government, NGOs, or media.

With Oxford’s unique combination of personalised teaching, unrivalled resources, and real-world opportunities, you won’t just study History and Politics — you’ll experience it in action.

Graduating from Oxford with a degree in History and Politics opens doors everywhere. Employers know you can analyse complex issues, argue persuasively, and adapt quickly to new challenges. That’s why you’ll find Oxford graduates making an impact in government, journalism, international organisations, and top consulting or finance firms. Typical roles include policy analyst, journalist, civil servant, consultant, or researcher—careers where your voice and judgement truly matter.

And Oxford doesn’t leave you to figure it out on your own:

• Careers Service for life – Oxford’s Careers Service works with you from your first year and continues to support you as an alum, offering internships, CV help, employer events, and networking with thousands of recruiters worldwide.

• Impressive employment stats – Around 80% of Oxford humanities graduates are in paid work within 15 months, and average starting salaries for History graduates are about £30,000, rising to over £45,000 within five years.

• Employer connections – Through its global reputation and alumni network, Oxford connects you with leaders in public service, media, law, finance, and NGOs.

• Oxford advantage – An Oxford degree is a lifelong asset. Employers worldwide recognise the “Oxford premium” for critical thinkers, strong communicators, and leaders.

• Strong outcomes – Whether it’s in politics, heritage, consultancy, journalism, or education, Oxford graduates move into roles where they shape policy, lead teams, and make a difference.

 Further Academic Progression:
If you’re passionate about going deeper, you’ll have excellent opportunities to continue your studies. Many Oxford graduates pursue master’s programmes such as International Relations, Public Policy, Political Theory, or Global History, while others move into prestigious research degrees (MPhil or DPhil). These paths open doors to academia, policy think-tanks, and leadership positions worldwide. With this degree, you’re not just studying the past and present—you’re preparing to lead in the future.