Enter OTP
If you’re fascinated by how past events shape today’s world and want to understand the forces behind political power, this joint degree in History and Politics at the University of Edinburgh is an ideal choice. It’s designed for curious minds who love exploring historical change and political ideas — and who want to connect the two to make sense of global issues today.
Curriculum structure
Year 1:
You’ll start by building a strong foundation in both disciplines. History modules introduce you to key periods — medieval, early modern, and modern — and develop essential skills through The Historian’s Toolkit. In politics, you’ll explore major ideas and debates through courses like Politics & International Relations 1A: Concepts and Debates, Politics & International Relations 1B: The Global Dimension, and Political Thinkers.
Year 2:
Your studies broaden as you dive deeper into different regions and periods of history, including British, European, and global contexts, alongside a core course in historiography that sharpens your research skills. In politics, you’ll examine comparative political systems and contemporary challenges in modules such as Comparative Politics in a Globalized World.
Year 3:
This is where you start to shape your own path. You’ll choose from a range of specialised options in both subjects — for example, Global Justice and Citizenship or Approaches to Politics & International Relations — and begin tailoring your learning towards your future dissertation topic.
Year 4:
Your final year is all about depth and independence. You’ll take advanced specialist courses, focus on a year-long history special subject, and complete a dissertation in either history or politics — a chance to showcase your research skills on a topic you care about.
Focus areas: political ideas and institutions, historical change, comparative politics, global and regional dynamics, research methods
Learning outcomes: You’ll learn how to critically analyse sources and data, build persuasive arguments, trace how political systems evolve, and conduct independent research — skills that are valued across many professions.
Professional alignment (accreditation): While not a professionally accredited degree, it opens doors to careers in government, diplomacy, public policy, media, heritage, law, research, and beyond, thanks to the analytical, communication, and research skills you’ll gain.
Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Edinburgh is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities for history and politics, and its graduates are highly sought after by employers worldwide.
Studying History and Politics at the University of Edinburgh is far more than reading books and writing essays — it’s an immersive experience that connects you directly with the real world of research, archives, and political institutions. From day one, you’ll work hands-on with original historical sources, engage with Scotland’s political landscape right on your doorstep, and develop the skills to think like a historian and act like a policymaker. The programme is designed to help you apply what you learn in the classroom to real contexts, giving you the confidence and experience employers value.
Here’s how you’ll put your knowledge into action:
Specialist research spaces: Use dedicated Student Research Rooms equipped with archives, rare collections, and PCs — ideal for independent research and dissertation work.
Digital and analytical tools: Access modern computer labs and specialist software that support research and data analysis in historical and political studies.
Learning through objects and archives: Work directly with the university’s rich teaching collections, such as the Gordon Childe Archaeology Collection, to bring historical study to life.
Real-world political exposure: Take advantage of the university’s location near the Scottish Parliament and government institutions, with opportunities for guest lectures, field visits, and practical insights.
Research community engagement: Join seminars and events run by the Political History Research Group, where you’ll connect with active researchers and cutting-edge debates.
A degree in History and Politics from the University of Edinburgh opens doors to an exciting range of global careers. With strong skills in analysis, research, communication, and critical thinking, our graduates are in demand across government, media, business, and the non-profit sector. Many go on to become policy advisers, civil servants, diplomats, journalists, researchers, or work in museums and heritage organisations.
Here’s how Edinburgh helps you launch your career:
Personalised support from the Careers Service and your academic school — including one-to-one career coaching, CV and interview workshops, and tailored guidance to help you find internships, placements, and graduate jobs.
Competitive earning potential — Politics graduates from Edinburgh report an average salary of around £32,000 within 15 months of finishing their degree.
Strong links with government, heritage bodies, think tanks, NGOs, and media organisations give you opportunities to connect with employers and explore career options during your studies.
Around 20% of graduates choose to continue their studies, reflecting the strong academic foundation this degree provides.
Edinburgh’s global reputation and consistently high employability rankings add long-term value to your degree and help your CV stand out.
Further Academic Progression:
After graduating, you could advance your studies with a Master’s in history, politics, public policy, or international relations, or pursue a PhD if you’re interested in research and academia. Specialist postgraduate diplomas in fields like heritage studies, diplomacy, or law are also popular pathways.
A level A*A*A to AABIB 37 points with 666 at HL to 34 points with 655 at HLAmerican curriculum ACT 27 + 2 AP scores at 4+, or SAT 1290+ (650+ ERW, 620+ Math) + 2 AP scores at 4+, or 3 AP scores at 4+ — GPA around 3.0.CBSE SSC or CISCE ISC Standard XII: overall score of 80% with at least three subjects at 75%.IELTS Academic: overall score of 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component — IELTS One Skill Retake is not accepted.TOEFL iBT: overall score of 92 with at least 20 in each component — TOEFL MyBest Score is not accepted.
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
University of Edinburgh
