History with Politics BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Nottingham Trent University

Program Overview

If you’re curious about how the world became what it is today — and how power, people, and ideas have shaped society — NTU’s History with Politics BA (Hons) is a perfect fit. You’ll explore fascinating moments in global history while understanding the political forces that drive change, preparing you to think critically and lead confidently in the modern world.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your journey begins with the foundations of both disciplines. You’ll explore Europe since 1789: Revolution to Referendum, examine how historians interpret the past in Making History, and learn key political concepts in Introduction to Politics. This year focuses on building your research and analytical skills — helping you see connections between history and current affairs.

Year 2:
You’ll start shaping your academic path through optional modules and real experiences. Whether it’s studying abroad, joining a placement, or diving into modules like Fascism: Past and Present or Environmental Politics and Policy, this year is about applying ideas to the real world and exploring the power of political action and historical perspective.

Year 3:
In your final year, you’ll become an independent thinker. You’ll undertake a major History Research Project guided by NTU academics, and explore creative modules like Leadership, Activism, and Campaigning or Representing History. This is where your knowledge, curiosity, and confidence come together in your final project or dissertation.

Focus Areas: Modern European and global history, political ideologies, social change, leadership, and activism

Learning Outcomes: Develop a strong critical voice, analyse global issues with historical depth, and apply research skills to solve real-world problems

Professional Alignment: The program sits within NTU’s respected School of Arts and Humanities, with 100% of NTU’s History research rated “world-leading or internationally excellent” (REF 2021).

Reputation: NTU is consistently ranked among the UK’s top modern universities for graduate employability. History and Politics graduates go on to careers in law, journalism, teaching, civil service, marketing, and public policy.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At NTU, learning History with Politics goes far beyond lectures — it’s about discovery, debate, and experience. You’ll explore history and political ideas in real-world settings, learn how to question narratives, and build transferable skills through teamwork, research, and community engagement. Every class and project is designed to help you think like a historian and act like a policymaker.

You’ll be based in the Djanogly Building on the vibrant City Campus, surrounded by modern seminar rooms, digital resources, and collaborative study spaces. Whether you’re analysing historic documents, debating climate policy, or leading your own campaign, NTU gives you the tools, confidence, and space to do it your way.

Here’s how you’ll learn through experience:

Field Visits & Local Exploration: Visit local museums, archives, and cultural sites around Nottingham to connect classroom theory with real historical evidence.
Boots Library Access: Work in one of the UK’s most innovative university libraries — complete with a rooftop garden and extensive research collections in history, politics, and culture.
Collaborative Projects: Engage in hands-on modules like Leadership, Activism & Campaigning, where you’ll design and present your own political initiative or social awareness campaign.
Digital & Research Tools: Access NTU’s digital platforms, online archives, and research databases to strengthen your writing, analysis, and presentation skills.
Independent Research Project: In your final year, complete a self-directed History Research Project — your chance to dive into a topic you care about, supported by expert academic mentors.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a History with Politics degree from NTU opens doors to a world of opportunities. You’ll leave with the ability to analyse complex issues, think critically, and communicate with confidence — skills that employers value everywhere. Many graduates use this degree as a springboard into fields such as law, journalism, public policy, marketing, or heritage management, turning their passion for history and ideas into rewarding careers.

NTU’s strong employability support makes this transition even smoother:

Personalised career guidance: The university’s Employability Team and JobShop offer one-to-one support, CV clinics, and access to exclusive internships and graduate roles.
Outstanding graduate outcomes: 94% of NTU graduates are employed or in further study within six months of completing their degree — a testament to the university’s focus on career readiness.
Industry connections: Students benefit from NTU’s partnerships with museums, archives, charities, and civic organisations that help translate academic learning into real-world experience.
Academic credibility: 100% of NTU’s History research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021), giving your degree strong recognition wherever you go.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you can choose to specialise further through postgraduate study — options include MA History, MA International Relations, MA Museum & Heritage Studies, or PGCE (Teaching). Many graduates also progress to law conversion courses or political communication master’s programs, preparing for leadership roles in government, education, and research.