University of Liverpool

What you'll study

This programme introduces core historical skills — source analysis, historiography and research methods — alongside a wide choice of period and thematic options. In the first year you build foundations in historical thinking and primary-source work while sampling different eras (medieval, early modern, modern) and geographical areas. In the second year you take more specialised modules exploring topics such as empire and decolonisation, social and economic history, cultural and intellectual history, gender and the history of science, often with options to study regional histories (British, European, Atlantic, global).
In the final year you pursue advanced seminars and independent research, typically including a substantial independent dissertation or extended project in a topic of your choice. Teaching is delivered through lectures, small-group seminars, source workshops and formative assignments; assessment combines essays, source-based papers, presentations and the extended research project. Optional modules may include public history and heritage practice, digital approaches to history, historical theory and memory studies, allowing you to tailor the degree to academic or vocational interests.

Entry requirements

The programme accepts students with a range of academic qualifications. Typical applicants have completed upper-secondary qualifications such as A-levels, the International Baccalaureate, Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers, or recognised international equivalents. Successful candidates usually demonstrate strong skills in essay writing, critical reading and independent study. Typical offers from applicants with A-levels are in a mid-to-high grade range; mature students and those with vocational qualifications (including Access to Higher Education) are considered on the basis of grades and evidence of readiness for university-level study.
All applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the University's standard English language requirements through a recognised test or equivalent qualification. Specific entry requirements, contextual offers and information on how to apply are available from the University of Liverpool admissions pages and prospectus.

Career prospects

History graduates develop analytical, research and communication skills valued across many sectors. Common career paths include:

• Heritage and museums: curatorship, collections management, interpretation and public programmes in museums, galleries and heritage sites.
• Archives and records management: roles in local and national archives, digital curation and records preservation.
• Education and teaching: secondary teaching (usually following a postgraduate teaching qualification) and informal education roles in cultural organisations.
• Public and third sector: policy, research and engagement roles in government, NGOs and community organisations.
• Media, publishing and communications: research, editorial and content roles in journalism, publishing houses and communications teams.
• Commercial and professional services: transferrable skills apply to law, finance, consultancy and human resources; many graduates follow postgraduate study in law, business or postgraduate research (MPhil/PhD).

Why study at University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool offers a history degree set within an active research environment, with staff expertise spanning medieval to modern and global histories. Students benefit from seminar-led teaching, staff who publish in their fields, and opportunities to undertake independent research informed by the Department's research culture. The city of Liverpool provides rich learning resources: local archives, maritime and social history collections, museums and heritage organisations offer material for coursework and work placements. The department also supports employability through skills workshops, dissertation supervision geared to careers as well as academia, and links with cultural institutions in the city and region.