History and American Studies (Hons) Northumbria University

Overview

Throughout the  History and American Studies (Hons) BA programme from Northumbria University you will learn to think about how history provides a deeper perspective on present-day challenges, and apply these ideas to aspects of the American present, as well as focusing on how these skills can enhance your future career options.

You will gain new understanding of present-day concerns, including environmental change, racial and gender equality, war and conflict, and economics and health. You will also have the opportunity to delve into African, British, Middle Eastern, and European history, with options taking you from the medieval to the contemporary world.

Our History and American Studies (Hons) at the Northumbria University  sets you on a path towards a wide range of future careers. We give all students a chance to work on a placement with a local business or cultural partner, and our unique module on place and heritage helps you learn about policy making in the real world. More broadly, as you explore new approaches to understanding conflict and society, past and present, in the Americas and beyond, you will be prepared for many future careers. Recent alumni work in jobs that range from barrister or property manager to university researcher to archive manager, author, teacher, and much more.

You will be taught by leading researchers in the field. Our historians were ranked 10th in the UK for the quality of their published research in the Research Excellence Framework, 2021. You also develop your own research skills, leading to a dissertation in Year 3 that will give you a voice in contemporary historical debates and build your confidence as you think about your own career after graduation.

You will also have the option of extending your studies, either taking a placement year in industry or opting to study abroad in continental Europe or North America.

Career opportunities:

• Our programme is designed to prepare you for the future: as someone who can think critically, communicate clearly and work effectively with others. You will learn to combine excellent research skills with the ability to analyse texts, to assess evidence and to weigh up different arguments. You will develop an understanding not only of the cultural, social and political dynamics of past societies and contemporary America, but of the modern world more generally. Your degree will enable you to become a valued contributor to the community and the wider world in which you live.
• The versatile set of skills that you will develop through your studies is key to unlocking your success after graduation. Graduates from both our courses in both History and American Studies have gone onto careers in the civil service, journalism, teaching, advertising, marketing, PR and law.