History and Politics

Combine modern history with politics to understand the roots of contemporary issues. Study ideologies and identities and think critically about policies and political institutions.

Explore pressing issues in contemporary politics, including Brexit, climate change and the resurgence of right-wing populism. You’ll gain an in-depth historical perspective including the rise of the nation-state, European imperialism, and the ideological conflicts of the 20th century.

As part of this course, you’ll:


• Examine how historical events and processes have shaped the modern world, its ideologies and political institutions



• Understand how circumstances, chance and human agency have affected global events and processes



• Evaluate theories, methods and approaches relevant to both history and politics and apply these to your studies with confidence and creativity



• Analyse primary sources and the writings of historians and political scientists



• Be introduced to political theory and key issues around governance and international relations



Find out more

This course blends skills in critical thinking from a historical perspective, evaluation of evidence and consideration of context. You’ll also learn to analyse the ideas, ideologies, policies and institutions that form the foundations of modern politics.

Building your future potential
As a student in the School of Humanities & Social Sciences, you’ll be encouraged to think about your future career right from the start of your learning journey. Information and advice about relevant future career options will be built into the first year of your degree. During your second and third years of study, you’ll be able to choose modules with live brief learning challenges (real life projects designed by employers) and work placement opportunities.

Why study the BA (Hons) History & Politics course at Leeds Beckett University?
• We're ranked 13th in the UK for History*



• We offer distinctive and creative programmes that are responsive to the changes taking place in society



• Benefit from strong and meaningful partnerships with community organisations



• Work on real-world projects such as the Leeds Blitz website



• Take assessments that build digital communication skills for the modern world

Curiosity needs thinkers, makers, and dreamers. It needs you!

Leeds Beckett believes that when unlike minds come together, incredible things happen. That’s why they don’t just teach; they collaborate, challenge and inspire.

Their courses are meticulously designed, combining practical experience through work placements with a vibrant location at the heart of one of the UK’s largest student communities. Boasting a top 10 UK ranking for both course quality and student life (Unicompare 2026) and a prestigious five-star QS rating, LBU sets the standard for excellence.

The university prioritises student wellbeing and stands among just seven universities nationwide to earn the University Mental Health Charter Award - proof of their unwavering commitment to advancing mental health and wellbeing.

All of this is why 98% of Leeds Beckett students and graduates would recommend studying at the university to a friend (Unicompare, 2024 reviews).