BA Hons History and Politics

At Swansea, studying History and Politics is much more than attending lectures — it’s about experiencing the subjects in action. This degree gives you countless opportunities to apply what you learn in real-world settings, explore historic sites, engage with political ideas beyond the classroom, and develop the practical skills employers are looking for. With strong links to museums, archives, cultural institutions, and global partners, Swansea helps you connect your studies with the world around you and prepare for your future career.

Here’s how you’ll gain hands-on experience throughout the course:

• Field trips that bring history to life: Many modules include exciting field trips to historic sites, museums, and heritage locations, allowing you to explore how history and politics shape real communities and environments.

• Work placements and industry experience: You’ll have opportunities to complete placements in museums, archives, cultural organisations, and heritage bodies — putting your research and communication skills into practice while building valuable professional experience.

• Study abroad opportunities: Broaden your perspective and gain global experience by spending a semester abroad through Swansea’s international exchange programmes, exploring how different countries approach history and politics.

• Collaborative projects and teamwork: Throughout the course, you’ll take part in group projects, debates, presentations, and case studies, helping you develop communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills that employers value.

• Student societies and mentoring: You can join active student groups like the History Society and Politics & International Relations Society, attend guest lectures, and participate in events that build your network and deepen your understanding of the field.

A degree in History and Politics from Swansea opens the door to a wide range of exciting careers. The combination of analytical thinking, research skills, and understanding of social and political change makes graduates highly sought after in government, culture, education, and beyond. Many alumni build successful careers as Policy Analysts, Political Advisors, Heritage and Museum Managers, or Research Consultants, working with government bodies, NGOs, cultural institutions, media organisations, and think tanks around the world.

Here’s how Swansea sets you up for success:

• Dedicated employability support: Swansea’s Employability Academy and Employment Zone offer personalised career coaching, interview and CV support, mentoring, and direct links to graduate jobs and internships.

• Outstanding graduate outcomes: An impressive 94% of Swansea History graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degree. For politics graduates, the median salary is around £24,000 within the same period — showing the strong market value of your skills.

• Real-world experience: Swansea is ranked 11th in the UK for student work experience (RateMyPlacement 2024–25), thanks to its emphasis on placements, internships, and hands-on projects that build your professional experience while you study.

• Industry connections and career-ready skills: Employability is embedded throughout the degree, with modules designed to build the skills employers want — from critical analysis and communication to policy evaluation and project work. The university’s digital job board also connects you with internships and graduate roles.

• Highly respected degree: While the programme isn’t tied to a specific professional body, the unique blend of history and politics is widely valued in fields such as public service, heritage, education, cultural policy, media, and research — making this degree an excellent foundation for a dynamic career.

Further Academic Progression:
Many graduates choose to continue their academic journey with a master’s or PhD in areas like History, Political Science, International Relations, Heritage Studies, Public Policy, or Cultural Studies. These advanced qualifications open doors to careers in academia, specialist research roles, international organisations, and senior leadership positions.