Philosophy and History

The BA in Philosophy and History is an exciting degree for those who want to delve deeply into philosophical ideas and historical events that have shaped the world. This course offers a rich opportunity to explore the connections between human thought and society, equipping students with critical thinking and analytical and reasoning skills to understand the complexities of the past and present.

In Philosophy, you will examine the big questions that define human existence. Who are we? What is our purpose in the world? How should we live? What is reality? Through structured debate, argument and imagination, Philosophy will challenge you to develop your own views while appreciating diverse perspectives on these timeless concerns.

The study of History will broaden your understanding of historical contexts and change, investigating the key moments that have shaped societies. The course spans a wide range of topics, from political, social, economic, military, and cultural history, to the impact of major events. You will study change over time, starting with the medieval and modern world in introductory modules. More focused topics include Norman society and the Crusades, the First World War, and cultural shifts such as those in 1980s Britain.

This degree not only deepens your knowledge but also prepares you for a variety of careers. Graduates are equipped to succeed in roles across academia, advocacy, and analyst work, as well as fields like business, government, and the heritage sector, including work in libraries, archives, museums, and tourism. Other opportunities include education, law, media, and positions within NGOs and charities.

By combining Philosophy and History, this course offers a holistic approach to understanding the forces that shape the world. It is ideal for students who wish to develop their ability to think critically, engage with complex ideas, and gain a deeper appreciation of how the past informs the present. Whether you are fascinated by historical contexts or drawn to answering profound philosophical questions, this degree provides a solid foundation for both personal growth and professional success.

In the first year, you will build a solid foundation in Philosophy and History, exploring the big questions of existence and studying key historical events.

Historicising Texts (20 credits)
The Modern World (20 credits)
Doing History: Past in Practice (20 credits)
Myths and Mythology: How Stories Shape the World (20 credits)
An Introduction to Ethics (20 credits)
Ancient Philosophy (20 credits)
Freedom, Equality and Justice: An Introduction to Political Philosophy (20 credits)
The Big Questions (20 credits )

Year two deepens your understanding of historical contexts and change, with a wide range of flexible modules available to match your interests. In Philosophy, you will critically examine ethical and metaphysical questions, further honing your analytical and reasoning skills while exploring the intersection of human thought and society across time.

In the final year, you will further specialise in areas that align with your interests. Independent research, supported by expert guidance, enables you to develop a Independent project, showcasing your expertise in Philosophy and History while preparing for future opportunities.

From Desert Myths to Sheep Tales: The Cistercians in the Middle Ages (20 credits)
Cold war, hot wars. Global perspectives on post-war history (20 credits)
Gwlad, gwlad: Aspects of Welsh History 1200 to the present (20 credits)
Special Collections Research: The Roderic Bowen Library and Archives (20 credits)
Celtic Sanctity and Spirituality: Hagiography and Saints' Cults (20 credits)
Independent Project (40 credits)
Freedom, Agency and Responsibility
Free-Market Environmentalism, Big Business and Global Politics (20 credits)
Early Modern Philosophy (20 credits)
Existentialism and Phenomenology (20 credits)
Metaphysics and Epistemology (20 credits)
The Ethics of Life and Death: Contemporary Debates in Applied Ethics (20 credits)
Philosophy of Mind: Humans, Animals and Machines (20 credits)
20th Century Philosophy (20 credits)
Ancestors, Death and Burial (20 credits)
Confessing with Saint Augustine: God and Religion in the Twilight of the Roman Empire (20 credits)
Activism, Protest and Campaigning for Global Justice (20 credits)
Women and Religion (20 credits)
International Mobility Opportunity (60 Credits)
Complex Bodies: Questioning Gender, Religion and Sexuality (20 credits)
Religions in Africa (20 credits)
Professional Placement (20 credits)
Global Genocides (20 credits)

The programme is assessed in a variety of ways and will include several of the following type of assessment: essays, document analysis, book/ journal reviews, short reports and reflective journals, time tests, seen and unseen exams, field journals, posters, group and individual presentations, dissertations, wikis, commentaries and film evaluations.

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

• Course does not award QTS