History and Politics

Course overview

The papers on the History and Politics degree offer a broad understanding of both subjects and the opportunity to think about their combination. All students take foundation courses in History and in Politics whilst also being able to pursue their preferred choices with ample flexibility. The aim of the course is to enable students to explore how historical and political understandings illuminate the modern world. The degree covers a range of subjects from the history, politics, and international relations programmes. There are opportunities to study major areas across both subjects, including comparative politics; the history of political thought; international security and organisation; the history of different regions of the world, from Britain and Europe to Latin America, Asia and beyond; world history; and advance topics in both politics and history.

For more information about the course and its modules, visit the University website.

What is it like to study History and Politics at King’s?

History and Politics students typically have five or six hours of lectures per week, divided between the Faculty of History and Department of Politics, and roughly two weekly supervisions (an hour of one-, two- or three-to-one teaching) in College. King’s students also have some group teaching within College related to the ‘Theory and Practice in History and Politics’ Paper in their third year.

We usually take three students each year for the joint History and Politics degree.

In a typical supervision, a student will be asked to explore their understanding of that week’s subject and be challenged on how they think about it. For most supervisions students must submit an essay, on which they will receive individual feedback ranging from subject comprehension to writing style, essay structure, and avenues for further research, allowing for unparalleled pursuit of intellectual curiosity with expert, tailored guidance.

What do we look for in an applicant to History and Politics?

A strong interest in and aptitude for both History and Politics and an ability to think imaginatively and constructively about the subjects taken jointly.

Requirements

A Level: A*AA with A* in History or Government and Politics 

IB: 41-42 points overall with 7, 7, 6 at Higher Level with 7 in History Higher Level or Global Politics Higher Level

Subject requirements: History or Government and Politics

Admissions assessment: None

Written work: 2 pieces

Written work

Further details about written work will be provided in due course.

Careers and graduate opportunities

History and Politics opens up opportunities in most sectors, including work in the media, the civil service, consultancy, journalism, television, film, politics risk analysis, think tanks, law, business, and teaching.

What is the best thing about studying History and Politics at King’s?

A long-standing tradition of thinking about the relationship between history and politics, including a commitment to the study of the history of political thought.

A top tip for applicants to History and Politics at King’s  

Show us why you are interested in History and Politics, separately and as a combined course of study. Think about how and why they might go together.