History (BA)

at Cardiff University

Course structure

 

We are currently working with our students to update and improve the content of this course. The information shown below reflects the current curriculum and is likely to change. The review of the course is expected to be completed by August 2022 and this page will be updated by end of October 2022 to reflect the changes.

 

The BA History is a three year degree programme. You will study modules totalling 120 credits each year.

 

Our year-long modules are the product of rigorous design and continuous re-evaluation. Academic staff, students and outside experts work together to ensure that degree schemes meet quality standards in their disciplines. 

 

The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2022/2023 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2022.

 

Year one
In Year One you explore key historical themes and ideas that you may not have encountered at A-level through optional modules on medieval, early modern and modern History, as well as the chance to take modules in Archaeology, Ancient History or Religion which explore longer time periods. You will take 120 credits in total.

 

All first-year single honours History students take two compulsory modules, which introduce you to the different frameworks which underpin historical research and the many different ways of writing history, while providing you with training in the skills necessary to practice history at undergraduate level. These core modules are taught through a range of case studies from different chronological periods, and are designed to help you understand why historians disagree as well as the nature of evidence they use.

 

Year two
You take 120 credits including two compulsory modules, one of which includes a period of independent study - taught through individual supervisions with academic staff.

 

You can choose from a wide range of thematic and specialist modules which explore topics and countries in more depth from the medieval diplomacy or heresy to courses on the English civil war, US history or twentieth-century Europe. In your second year, the emphasis shifts further towards seminar work, with individual supervision for extended essays.

 

The core module Approaches to History comprises weekly lectures supplemented by fortnightly seminars in small groups, while the second is taught through individual supervisions with academic staff.

 

Year three
You study 120 credits, and continue to develop and extend your historical skills and knowledge.

 

In your final year, you write a dissertation related to your area of interest, supported by individual supervisions with an academic adviser. The dissertation enables you to gain genuine research experience and develop the skills needed to research an historical problem and present your findings in a critical, analytical and coherent study, skills which equip you for professional employment.

A level
ABB-BBB. If you have grade B in the relevant language A-level you will have access to the languages advanced pathways.

 

Extended/International Project Qualification: Applicants with grade A in the EPQ/IPQ will typically receive an offer one grade lower than the standard A level offer. Please note that any subject specific requirements must still be met.

 

International Baccalaureate
32-31 overall or 665 in 3 HL subjects. If you have grade 6 in the relevant language at HL you will have access to the languages advanced pathways.

 

GCSE
Grade C or grade 4 in GCSE English Language.

 

IELTS (academic)
At least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each subskill.

 

TOEFL iBT
At least 90 overall with minimum scores of 17 for writing, 17 for listening, 18 for reading and 20 for speaking.

 

PTE Academic
At least 62 overall with a minimum of 59 in all communicative skills.

 

Trinity ISE II/III
II: at least two Distinctions and two Merits.
III: at least a Pass in all components.

Tuition fees for 2022 entry

Fees for home status

• £9,000    

 

Fees for overseas status

• £18,950

In 2016/17, the Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education survey showed that 97% of our graduates who were available for work reported they were in employment and/or further study within six months of graduation. History graduates find work in a wide range of related and non-related professional employment. Popular employment sectors include: finance, publishing, law, journalism, advertising and marketing, culture and heritage, education, government, and other professional sectors. Some choose to undertake postgraduate study at Cardiff or elsewhere, and some have become internationally reputed historians.

 

We encourage our students to think about life beyond University from day one, offering modules and support to give you a competitive advantage on graduating, while the School has a dedicated Work Placements Officer who supports you with work experience opportunities both in and out of term time.

 

Graduate careers

• Broadcast journalist
• Lawyer
• Advertising executive
• Teacher
• Historian