History and Politics, BA (Hons)

Our BA in History and Politics equips students to tackle contemporary global challenges by exploring their historical roots. Spanning a millennium of history, the programme draws on the University of Reading's expertise across diverse regions, including Europe, Africa, America, South Asia, and the Middle East. You will develop essential research skills through personalised projects, while gaining a solid foundation in political concepts such as democratic processes and political ideas. Notably, 97% of our research outputs are rated world-leading or internationally excellent, ranking the university sixth in the UK for research in politics and international studies (based on Times Higher Education analysis of REF 2021).Core modules include Perspectives in History, Politics of Climate Change, Introduction to Political Ideas, and a dissertation in either history or politics. These have been provisionally approved for 2025/26, subject to final university confirmation, with potential changes possible. Optional modules may vary based on availability, and further details will be released in summer 2024. We recommend checking our website regularly for the latest course information.

The following modules have been approved in principle for delivery in 2025/26. Please note that as part of our current curriculum improvement process, all modules require final University approval and may be subject to change. Core modules for this course: Perspectives in History; Making History and You: Practices and Possibilities; Politics of Climate Change; Introduction to Contemporary Democracy; Introduction to Political Ideas; The Study of Politics; Dissertation in either History or Politics The University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them. Further information about the content of final approved modules will be available in the summer of 2024. We suggest that you regularly revisit our course page during this time to ensure you have the most up-to-date information regarding the modules offered on this programme. Check our website for more details about the course structure.