Swansea University

What you'll study

This joint degree brings together core topics from both history and politics, emphasising critical thinking, source evaluation and the construction of arguments. In history you will study chronological and thematic modules such as British and Welsh history, modern European history, imperial and global history, social and cultural history, and historical methods. Politics modules cover political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public policy, political behaviour and contemporary challenges such as security and global governance.

• Year 1 – introductory modules in historical methods and an overview of political ideas and institutions, giving grounding in research skills, essay writing and basic data literacy.
• Year 2 – more specialised options in both disciplines, for example modules on nineteenth- and twentieth-century Britain, revolutions and nationalism, electoral politics, governance and public policy.
• Final year – major options and a substantial independent dissertation or research project, allowing you to pursue a topic that bridges history and politics or to concentrate on one subject in depth. You will also choose advanced modules such as historiography, conflict and memory, international security, or policy analysis.

Across the degree you will be assessed through essays, source-based assignments, examinations, presentations and the dissertation. Opportunities such as archival work, field visits, guest lectures from practitioners and optional placement or study-abroad periods are commonly available.

Entry requirements

Typical entry expectations for the BA History & Politics are A-levels or equivalent qualifications demonstrating strong performance in humanities or social science subjects. Candidates usually need a combination of grades at the standard undergraduate offer level used by UK universities; individual offers may vary by year and applicant profile.

• Accepted qualifications commonly include: A-levels, Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers, Irish Leaving Certificate, BTEC, and international qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate or recognised national equivalents.
• Prior study in subjects such as history, politics, English, geography, economics or languages is advantageous but not always mandatory.
• International applicants will need to meet English language requirements; typical evidence includes recognised tests or qualifications demonstrating competency in academic English.

Applicants with non-standard backgrounds or relevant work experience are encouraged to contact admissions for advice on eligibility and appropriate entry pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates of History & Politics develop transferable skills valued by employers: critical analysis, research, written and oral communication, project management and the ability to synthesize complex information. These skills open routes into a wide range of careers.

• Public sector and policy roles – civil service, policy analysis, local government and international organisations.
• Media, communications and journalism – reporting, editorial work, social media and content strategy.
• Law and consultancy – many graduates progress to professional training and advisory roles where analytical and argumentation skills are essential.
• Heritage, archive and museum work – curation, conservation support, education and public engagement in cultural institutions.
• Teaching and academic research – routes into postgraduate study, teacher training (PGCE) and research careers.
• Third sector and NGOs – advocacy, research, campaigning and programme management roles.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University offers a supportive environment combining research-led teaching in history and politics with opportunities for hands-on learning. The university has established strengths in modern British and Welsh history alongside active politics and international relations research groups, giving students access to informed teaching and guest speakers from policy and academic spheres.

Students benefit from proximity to local archives and cultural resources, regular public lectures and seminars, and options for placements or a study-abroad year to enhance employability. Smaller-group teaching in later years and supervision for dissertations ensure personalised academic guidance, while careers support services and strong employer links help graduates move into work or further study.