Modern History and Politics (BA)

Studying Modern History and Politics at Southampton is about much more than lectures and textbooks — it’s about learning by doing. From the very start, you’ll work hands-on with historical artefacts, explore world-class archives, and apply political theory to real-world contexts. Whether you’re analysing primary sources in special collections, debating policy ideas in seminars, or studying abroad, every part of this degree is designed to help you build practical skills and confidence for life beyond university.

Here are some of the ways you’ll gain real experience during your degree:

• Work directly with historical sources and artefacts from the university’s own collections and take part in guided visits to museums and galleries, bringing your history studies to life.

• Complete a year in employment through the optional industrial placement, giving you valuable workplace experience and a chance to apply your skills in a professional environment.

• Spend a year abroad or take part in semester-long exchanges at partner universities in places like Europe, the USA, Japan, Hong Kong, or Australia — a fantastic opportunity to broaden your global perspective.

• Collaborate on group projects and debates in small-group seminars and coursework, as well as undertake a major independent dissertation project in your final year.

• Dive into the Hartley Library’s renowned special collections, including the Parkes archive, and make use of extensive online political science databases to support your research.

• Access digital learning tools like recorded lectures, quizzes, and discussion forums through the university’s virtual learning environment, helping you study flexibly and effectively.

• Engage with active research centres and policy groups within the Department of Politics and International Relations, giving you insight into how academic work shapes public debates and decision-making.

Studying Modern History and Politics at Southampton opens doors to careers that truly shape society — from policymaking and government to media, culture, and international organisations. This degree gives you the analytical skills, research expertise, and historical understanding that employers value, preparing you for impactful roles such as policy analyst, heritage officer, political advisor, or research associate.

Here’s how Southampton helps you turn your degree into a successful career:

• Personalised career support: The university’s Careers, Employability & Student Enterprise team is with you every step of the way, offering one-to-one coaching, interview preparation, networking events, and tailored workshops.

• Real-world experience: You’ll have the chance to complete a Year in Employment placement, working full-time for 30+ weeks with an organisation in the UK or abroad. This practical experience appears on your degree transcript and gives you a competitive edge when applying for graduate roles.

• Strong graduate outcomes: Around 95% of Southampton graduates enter work or further study soon after finishing their degree, with average starting salaries of around £28,000–£30,000. Many go into roles with government departments, NGOs, think tanks, museums, archives, and international bodies.

• Valuable connections: Southampton’s links with public institutions, cultural organisations, NGOs, and heritage bodies mean you’ll have opportunities to collaborate with employers and access internships that enhance your CV.

• Prestige and long-term value: As part of the Russell Group, Southampton is known worldwide for its research excellence and academic reputation — giving your degree real weight with future employers.

Graduates have gone on to work in a variety of exciting roles such as heritage officer, government policy advisor, political researcher, journalist, communications specialist, and international development officer, with many progressing into senior positions over time, including head of public policy, senior diplomat, think tank director, or university lecturer.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re inspired to continue your studies, you’ll find plenty of opportunities after graduation. Many students choose to pursue master’s degrees in areas like History, Politics, International Relations, Public Policy, Security Studies, or Cultural Heritage. Others combine politics with new skills in data, media, or global development. You could also progress to a PhD, leading to research and teaching careers, or undertake professional qualifications in fields such as public administration or heritage management.