UCAS code V100
Studying history changes the way you view the world around you and how you understand your place in it. If you have a genuine curiosity about history and a desire to develop a set of advanced skills in a challenging but supportive environment, History at Liverpool is the place for you.
You will start by exploring a broad range of historical periods, some of which may be less familiar, giving you a good basis for making choices later in the degree.
You will also experience a wide variety of approaches to history and are free to study aspects of the past that interest you the most. For instance, some modules focus on political history or the history of warfare. Others place the emphasis on social, cultural and gender history. You can also take modules on global history or ones that focus on national histories, whilst others will allow you to explore particular themes, such as slavery, human rights, medicine, religion, the environment or the Cold War.
The degree programme is designed to move from breadth to depth; from directed to more independent learning; and foster the development of advanced research techniques over the three years.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
In year one, modules cover global history, modern British and European history, and medieval and early modern European history. You will be introduced to independent learning and begin to develop a range of skills necessary to succeed at university.
Students take 45 credits of compulsory modules and 15 credits of optional modules in each semester.
There is a range of optional modules for History students to choose from in year one, currently including modules in: Archaeology, Classics, Irish Studies, Languages and Politics.
ALGY109 and ALGY116 are pre-requisites for year one and year three Egyptology modules (ALGY257, ALGY244, and ALGY377).
Additional optional modules from Open Languages may be taken up to a maximum of 30 credits. The offer currently includes Arabic, Basque, Catalan, Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish, available from level A1 (complete beginners) to C1 (proficient speaker), of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). Please note that not all languages may always be available at all levels every year.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
In year two, the choice of modules includes a variety of African, American, Asian, British and pre-modern and modern European options.
Students select from entirely optional modules. Students take one 30-credit module and two 15-credit modules in each semester. Please note, certain combinations of modules may not always be possible.
HIST200 and HIST286 are subject to a suitable placement being sourced.
Students wishing to take ALGY257 or ALGY244 must have taken ALGY109 and ALGY116 in year one.
Registration onto HLAC220 is only for students planning to undertake a Work Placement Year.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
In year three, the emphasis is increasingly on independent study and the refinement of advanced research skills: namely, a three-hour weekly special subject module (centred on analysing primary sources) and preparing for the dissertation.
Students take one x 30-credit optional module and two x 15-credit optional modules in semester one.
All modules in semester two (including the History Dissertation) are required.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| HISTORY DISSERTATION (HIST396) | 30 |
| USES OF THE PAST: HISTORY IMPACT MODULE (HIST388) | 30 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
In year one you will take ‘history matters’ and ‘presenting the past’; either ‘power, belief and identity: medieval and early modern worlds, C. 500-1600 CE’ or the ‘global history of the present’ and either ‘modern Britain: democracy, war and modernity’ or ‘understanding modern Europe’. In year two, you will take 30 credits of optional history modules from the same list of options available to Single Honours students. In year three you will either take a research-focused module in semester one and write a dissertation in semester two or take 30 credits of optional modules in semester one and in semester two take modules: ‘uses of the past: history impact module’ and ‘history research essay’.
You will experience a mix of lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials, with no modules being taught entirely through lectures. Most teaching takes place in small groups where you’ll share and explore ideas with your tutors and peers. There is also the opportunity for historical field work in museums and galleries. You’ll also attend workshops and lectures and self-direct study through the course reading list and conducting research for your essays and projects. Academic staff are available on a weekly basis for one-to-one feedback and support through designated office hours. Course material is available 24-hours a day on Canvas, our online learning platform, and study support is available from our dedicated student services team.
Your second and third years benefit directly from research connected teaching, as your learning progresses from the core practice of studying History learnt in year one to a focus on more specific historical periods, places or concepts that will form the basis of your year three special subject and dissertation.
Students on this course are assessed through a combination of exams and coursework. Coursework can includes essays, group projects, individual or group presentations, writing opinion pieces, creating blogs or vlogs, or designing an exhibition. During your final year, you’ll also submit your dissertation and sit final exams.
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide. Choose to spend a year at XJTLU in China or a year or semester at an institution of your choice.
Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.
Broaden your world by spending an additional year of study at a partner university abroad following your second year of study.
Take a semester of your second year of study at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Spend a summer abroad on a study placement or research project at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:
With a combined degree, you can study two subjects as part of the same degree programme.
The Department of History is based in the School of Histories, Languages and Cultures, an ornate Georgian property located on historic Abercromby Square. Students have access to extensive library facilities, special collections and Liverpool’s renowned museums, libraries and galleries, including the University of Liverpool’s own Special Collections and Archives.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
A History degree from the University of Liverpool offers you the chance to develop skills such as teamwork, informed judgement, cultural awareness and leadership – skills which have been identified by the Association of Graduate Recruiters as those increasingly in demand with graduate employers.
Our graduates progress to a range of careers including banking, law, financial consultancy, national and local government, third sector work, journalism, publishing, teaching or work in heritage and culture organisations.
Recent employers include:
Hear what graduates say about their career progression and life after university.
Gavin and Sam, History graduates from the University of Liverpool, were selected for the Santander Universities Emerging Entrepreneurs Programme to represent the University of Liverpool. In this short article, they discuss their business idea and their feelings about being nominated.
Can you tell us a little bit about your role at the House of Commons? “One of the best things about working in Parliament is that there really is no ‘typical day’. My role is to advise and work with the MP in responding to, and communicating, current affairs. On the Parliamentary side of things, […]
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £9,535
Year abroad fee - £1,430 (applies to year in China)
Full-time place, per year - £24,100
Year abroad fee - £12,050 (applies to year in China)
The tuition fees shown are correct for 2025/26 entry. Please note that the year abroad fee also applies to the year in China.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
If you’re a UK student joining an undergraduate degree and have a household income below £35,000, you could be eligible for a Liverpool Bursary worth up to £2,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Apply for an Asylum Seekers Scholarship and you could have your tuition fees paid in full and receive help with study costs. You’ll need to have applied for asylum in the UK, or be the dependant of an asylum seeker, and be joining an eligible undergraduate degree.
If you’ve spent 13 or more weeks in Local Authority care since age 14, you could be eligible for a bursary of £3,000 per year of study. You’ll need to be a UK student joining an eligible undergraduate degree and be aged 28 or above on 1 September in the year you start.
Are you a UK student with a Black African or Caribbean heritage and a household income of £25,000 or less? You could be eligible to apply for a Cowrie Foundation Scholarship worth up to £8,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
If you’re a UK student identified as estranged by Student Finance England (or the equivalent UK funding body), you could be eligible for a bursary of £1,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Joining a School of Biosciences degree and have a household income of less than £25,000? If you’re a UK student, you could apply to receive £4,500 per year for three years of your undergraduate course.
Do you live in the Liverpool City Region with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a Nolan Scholarship worth £5,000 per year for three years of undergraduate study.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? If you’ve participated in an eligible outreach programme, you could be eligible to apply for a Rigby Enterprise Award worth £5,000 per year for three years of your undergraduate degree.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a ROLABOTIC Scholarship worth £4,500 for each year of your undergraduate degree.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
Joining a degree in the School of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Computer Science? If you’re a UK student with household income below £25,000, you could be eligible to apply for £5,000 a year for three years of study. Two awards will be available per academic year.
If you’re a young adult and a registered carer in the UK, you might be eligible for a £1,000 bursary for each year of study. You’ll need to be aged 18-25 on 1 September in the year you start your undergraduate degree.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| A levels |
ABB Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is BBB with A in the EPQ. You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme. Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work. Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers. |
| T levels |
T levels considered in a relevant subject. Applicants should contact us by completing the enquiry form on our website to discuss specific requirements in the core components and the occupational specialism. |
| GCSE |
4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics |
| BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma | Applications considered. BTEC applications are encouraged. We evaluate each BTEC application on its merits. |
| International Baccalaureate | 33 points with no score less than 4 |
| Irish Leaving Certificate | H1,H2,H2,H2,H3,H3 |
| Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher | ABB in Advanced Highers, combinations of Advanced Highers and Scottish Highers are welcome |
| Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced | Accepted at grade A including BB at A level |
| Access | Accepted in a relevant subject, with 30 level 3 credits at Distinction and 15 level 3 credits at Merit |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our direct entry requirements. Although there is no direct Foundation Certificate route to this course, completing a Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, can guarantee you a place on a number of similar courses which may interest you. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 125 overall, with speaking, reading and writing not less than 105, and listening not below 100. For academic year 2025/26 only, we will also accept the production, literacy, comprehension and conversation score set: 120 overall, with no component below 95. |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 61 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 70 overall, with no skill below 60 |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 | Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking and listening. Speaking and listening must be separately endorsed on the certificate. |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0990 | Grade 4 overall, with Merit in speaking and listening |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0510/0511 | 0510: Grade B overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0511: Grade B overall. |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0993/0991 | 0993: Grade 6 overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0991: Grade 6 overall. |
| Cambridge ESOL Level 2/3 Advanced | 176 overall, with no paper below 162 |
| International Baccalaureate English A: Literature or Language & Literature | Grade 5 at Standard Level or grade 5 at Higher Level |
| International Baccalaureate English B | Grade 7 at Standard Level or grade 6 at Higher Level |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 10 weeks | On campus and online options available |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 | 12 weeks | On campus and online options available |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 4.5 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5, for further details.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 23 April 2025 / / Programme terms and conditions