History with a Year Abroad

Explore the past, encounter diverse societies and explain cultural changes. With new discoveries being found every day, combined with advancements in technology, you’ll uncover hidden details about past events.

Studying in a city steeped in history, surrounded by outstanding museums and resources, you’ll expand your knowledge as you explore different histories and perspectives from Africa, Asia, Europe and the United States. You’ll have an expansive choice of over 70 modules. Japanese film history, the theory of totalitarianism, technology and the modern world – which ones will ignite your interest?

Invest in your future
Taught in our prestigious school founded in 1912, you’ll learn from experts who care about providing impactful research. Maybe you’ll even study under one of our professors who wrote and presented the BBC series ‘Suffragettes Forever! The Story of Women and Power’.

You’ll also have the opportunity to put your knowledge into action as you get involved in our student history society. Or how about contributing your writing and editing skills for our Queen Mary history journal stocked in the British Library?

History is a fantastic launchpad into many careers. You could apply your knowledge directly in a museum or heritage role. Or use your communication and analytical skills in a career in publishing, policy making, social research or the Civil Service. With support from our history careers consultant and opportunities to be inspired by our alumni, you’ll soon be creating your own history.

Compulsory Modules
Year 1
History in Practice
Unravelling Britain: British History since 1801 
Global Encounters: Conquest and Culture in World History
Choose from
Building the American Nation: 1756-1900
Europe in a Global Context since 1800
Screening History: Representing the Past in the Contemporary Historical Film
The Foundations of Modern Thought: Introduction to Intellectual History
Controversies of Science and Technology in the Making of the Modern World
Europe 1000-1500: The Middle Ages and their Legacy
Reformation to Revolution: Europe and the World, 1500-1800

Please note that all modules are subject to change.

Assessment typically involves a combination of examinations and coursework, or coursework only. Coursework may include essays, diaries, case-studies and oral presentations.

In your final year you’ll work on a dissertation worth 25% of your final year mark, researching a specialised area of history that particularly interests you.