University of Leicester

What you'll study

This joint degree blends core historical training—chronology, source analysis and historiography—with thematic and period-based modules in American Studies. Teaching is research-led and combines lectures, seminars and assessed coursework; there is typically an option to write a dissertation or major research project in your final year.

• Core history skills: historical methods, research skills, archival practice, and introduction to historiography.
• Period and thematic history modules: options covering medieval, early modern, modern British and global history, providing a broad foundation in historical study.
• American history modules: topics such as colonial America, the American Revolution, Civil War and Reconstruction, 20th-century politics, the New Deal, postwar social change, race and civil rights, and US foreign policy.
• American culture and society: modules on American literature and film, popular culture, religion, immigration, and the construction of identity in the United States.
• Optional modules and interdisciplinary study: opportunity to take modules in politics, literature, film, or cultural studies to broaden understanding of transatlantic connections.
• Final-year project: a supervised dissertation or major extended essay allowing original research on a chosen topic, often drawing on Special Collections, digital archives or primary US-source materials.
• Placement and study abroad: where available, students may be able to take a placement year in a heritage, media or cultural organisation, or spend time studying overseas to broaden language and cultural experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education to a level appropriate for UK undergraduate entry. Typical offers are based on A-levels, International Baccalaureate, or equivalent qualifications; the University also accepts Access to HE diplomas and other recognised international qualifications. You should normally have a good grounding in essay-based subjects and evidence of strong written communication.

In addition to academic qualifications, the course considers personal statements and references. GCSE-level requirements in English language (or equivalent) may apply for some applicants. Mature applicants and those with non-standard qualifications are encouraged to contact Admissions for advice and may be considered on the basis of work experience and other evidence of ability.

Career prospects

Graduates from History and American Studies develop strong research, writing and critical-thinking skills that are valued across many sectors. Common career paths include:

• secondary or further education teaching (typically following a PGCE or teacher training route)
• heritage and museum work, archives and curation
• publishing, journalism and media production
• policy work, civil service and public administration
• marketing, communications and public relations
• non-governmental organisations and international organisations
• postgraduate research (MA, MPhil, PhD) in history, American studies, cultural studies or related fields

Employers value the degree’s combination of specialist knowledge about the United States and broad historical perspective, which supports roles involving research, analysis and intercultural awareness.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers research-informed teaching and a strong tradition in history and area studies. You will benefit from access to the University’s Special Collections and Archives for primary-source research, and from interdisciplinary links across politics, literature and media studies. The School supports independent research projects and dissertation supervision by staff active in fields such as social and cultural history and transatlantic studies.

Leicester’s campus and city location provide a supportive student environment with good transport links, opportunities for internships in nearby cultural organisations, and careers support focused on preparing graduates for a wide range of professions. Small-group teaching in seminars and close supervision of final projects help students develop advanced research and communication skills valued by employers and postgraduate programmes alike.