History (with Placement Year)

Explore past movements and people and how they have shaped the present with our expert-led History degree

Immerse yourself in the global histories of revolution, power, and people from the past to the present day with our BA History degree. You will study the rise and fall of states, the causes of wars and revolutions, and social and political movements.

You will interpret sources, explain how societies change and why this is important. Study with a supportive and stimulating department, and equip yourself to analyse the many challenges of today.

Hands-on learning

Our students tell us that St Mary’s is the perfect location to explore history at London’s many museums, archives and historic houses, such as:

- the British Museum

- the Imperial War Museum

- Hampton Court

- the London Docklands

- the Palace of Westminster.

As a student here, you’ll have easy access to be able to undertake your own first-hand research.

A history programme led by experts and research

Our curriculum is designed on the principle of research-led teaching by historians who are experts in their fields. Our student, Steph, explains that this has given her invaluable insights and learning experiences.

Our department is placed 2nd for teaching quality in London by the Guardian University Guide 2021.

We genuinely care about our students and will encourage you to think critically, which has positioned our university in the top 10 for student experience (Times Good University Guide 2024).

Recently, one of our history lecturers, Prof Glenn Richardson, guested on the Not Just the Tudors podcast to discuss his biography of Cardinal Wolsey and his rise to and sudden fall from power.

About the Placement Year

A placement year enables you to undertake a year of experience in an organisation between your second and final year.

It will enable you to:

- apply the knowledge and skills you gain from your course in a work setting

- build your commercial awareness and insights into organisations and industries you might want to work in

- develop your professional skills through company training, networking skills and confidence in the workplace

- get some great experience for future job applications or even land a graduate job.

Support from St Mary’s every step of the way

Securing a placement can really help you develop your job search skills and the Employability Service placement and Careers Teams can support you to find and apply for available opportunities.

Please note: in the event that you cannot secure a placement you will be able to transfer onto the three year version of your degree programme.