University of Hull

What you'll study

This programme blends study of historical periods, themes and methods with modules in education theory and school practice. You will deepen subject knowledge across topics such as medieval and early modern Britain, modern British and global history, social and cultural history, and historiography, while also studying curriculum design, assessment, classroom management and inclusive teaching strategies specific to secondary history.

• Subject modules: thematic and period modules covering topics like medieval societies, early modern revolutions, nineteenth- and twentieth-century developments, world history and historical interpretation and source-work.
• Professional studies: pedagogy for secondary teachers, lesson planning, assessment for learning, behaviour and classroom management, differentiation and special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in the secondary classroom.
• School experience: sustained school placements in local secondary schools, observation and supervised teaching practice, professional reflection and development of classroom skills.
• Research and enquiry: independent research projects or dissertations in history and evidence-based approaches to teaching and learning.
• Optional modules: opportunities to study related areas such as digital history, public history, museum education or education policy depending on availability and demand.

The course is structured to increase responsibility and classroom autonomy as you progress: early years focus on subject grounding and introductory professional skills, while later years emphasise lesson leadership, curriculum design and a major research or curriculum project supported by school placements.

Entry requirements

Typical entry routes include qualifications such as A-levels (including history or a related humanities subject), an Access to Higher Education Diploma, or equivalent qualifications. Applicants are normally expected to demonstrate competence in English and mathematics at GCSE grade C/4 or equivalent; functional skills or recognised equivalents are also accepted.

• Evidence of subject interest and potential to study history at degree level (personal statement, references).
• Satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and fitness to teach clearance where required for school placements.
• Some programmes may request interview or school-based experience as part of the selection process; practical experience in schools or youth settings is advantageous.

Career prospects

Graduates gain a strong combination of historical knowledge and practical classroom skills that supports progression to initial teacher training (such as a PGCE, School Direct or employment-based routes) and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) where required. The degree is also appropriate for careers in education support roles, museum and heritage education, archives, local authority education teams, curriculum development, publishing and further academic study.

Employers value the course’s emphasis on communication, critical thinking, lesson planning and classroom management. Many students use the programme as a step towards postgraduate teacher training; others move into roles in learning and engagement within cultural institutions or into policy and administrative posts within the education sector.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull offers close partnerships with regional secondary schools, providing extensive placement opportunities that give real classroom experience and professional mentoring. You will benefit from small-group teaching in subject seminars, specialist history collections and access to learning resources that support both historical study and pedagogical practice.

Hull’s education staff combine subject expertise in history with experience in teacher education, helping to bridge academic study and classroom application. The university emphasises employability and professional development, supporting students with careers guidance, placement coordination and opportunities to build networks with schools and cultural institutions in the region.