University of York

What you'll study

The programme integrates core themes from history and philosophy so you study thinkers, texts and debates alongside the social and cultural contexts in which ideas developed. In the first year you take introductory modules in historical methods and in philosophical skills, covering topics such as ethics, logic, epistemology and central periods of national and global history. Teaching combines lectures with small-group seminars and assessed essays.

In later years you choose from a range of options to shape the course to your interests. Historical options typically include political, social and cultural history modules (for example, modern British history, early modern Europe, imperial and global history, or gender and society), plus training in historiography and archive-based research. Philosophy options commonly cover moral and political philosophy, philosophy of mind, metaphysics, philosophy of science and advanced logic. You will also undertake a substantial independent project or dissertation supervised by a member of staff, allowing you to pursue an extended piece of research that draws on methods from both disciplines.

Students can usually choose modules across both departments, pursue language study relevant to historical research, and take advantage of opportunities for placements or a study-abroad experience where available. Assessment is by a combination of essays, source-work, exams, presentations and the final dissertation or long essay.

Entry requirements

Applicants should demonstrate strong performance in secondary-school qualifications. Typical offers ask for high grades in three A-levels or equivalent qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate or BTEC, with qualifications in relevant humanities subjects welcomed but not always required. The university also considers mature applicants, Access to Higher Education diplomas and international qualifications.

Good written and spoken English is essential; applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the department's English language requirements. The selection process usually includes consideration of personal statements and academic reference(s), and may invite applicants to interview in some cases. Specific entry conditions and acceptable qualifications are published by the university and should be checked on the official course pages.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with strong research, critical analysis, argumentation and communication skills valued across many sectors. Common career paths include teaching (with further teacher training), law (often after a law conversion course), civil service and public policy, journalism and publishing, heritage and museum work, archives and libraries, and roles in NGOs and the third sector.

Alumni also enter business, management consulting and graduate schemes where their analytical and writing skills are prized. The dissertation and optional placements provide practical experience and specialised expertise that can be highlighted to employers or used as a foundation for postgraduate study in history, philosophy, law or related disciplines.

Why study at University of York

The University of York is home to established History and Philosophy departments with a strong emphasis on research-led teaching and small-group seminar work. Students benefit from expert supervision, a broad choice of module options and access to specialist resources such as the university libraries and the Borthwick Institute for Archives, which supports primary-source historical research.

Teaching at York emphasises debate, close reading and independent research, and students are supported through dissertation supervision, writing workshops and careers guidance. York’s collegiate campus and the historic city provide a rich cultural environment, with museums, archives and public history opportunities nearby that complement classroom learning.