• Departments and Services

History

Why History at The University of Northampton?

Click here to view our History Leaflet

History at The University of Northampton offers innovative and research-driven courses on British, European, American and Colonial History covering all periods from the fifteenth century through to the twenty-first century. The courses are taught by practising historians, all of whom are enthusiastic about their work and, as experts, publish regularly in their field. The study of history at UN takes place in an environment that is supportive and responsive, but above all friendly. Courses are offered for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

History is taught in The University of Northampton's modern Park Campus, located just to the north of town. The campus also houses the main library, lecture halls, seminar rooms and IT services. Several of the main student residences are located on the campus.

History at The University of Northampton can be taken as a single honours degree (BA History) or as part of a joint degree with another subject. The range of options is large and includes such popular possibilities as History with Sport Studies, Criminology, Law, English and American Studies. Flexibility is built into the programme. Both degree programmes offer some choice.

"Single honours history at Northampton is a fantastic course with a great variety of subjects and a staff that are both friendly and supportive - it's a decision you won't regret." Sophie Harris, BA History graduate.

There is also a flexible part-time path through the History programmes.
"As I had not studied for some years, I was quite concerned about the prospect of returning to University full time. However, the History tutors were approachable and always willing to provide help and guidance. I have just got back into the rhythm of working life again. I have managed to get a better job due to my degree so it has already proved to be very useful." Andrea Anderson, graduated with a BA Law with History honours degree.

National Student Survey 2006 - History at The University of Northampton was rated the best in the East Midlands.

"Tutor support is excellent: they are always available, really caring and very supportive"
Seminar tutors were praised for giving "one to one academic advice". They were described as "helping with our understanding of course content and its demands" and as giving "good feedback on your work".
Personal tutors were described as being the most useful source of support because "they know me", because they give "the most appropriate and the most personal advice", because they are "approachable and helpful" and because they "helped with my choices and most work".

History at The University of Northampton provides Innovative and Exciting Topics

History at The University of Northampton covers different periods, countries, themes and types of history. From the study of early modern, Victorian and modern history the courses explore the histories of Britain, Europe, America and the Colonial World. There are courses on the history of crime, warfare, diplomacy, medicine, gender, politics, culture and society. We also offer courses on those areas that the history staff are researching. These include: witchcraft trials; the Holocaust; the home front in the Second World War; medicine, death and the body; crime, punishment and policing; the French Wars of Religion; and Germany in the era of the First World War.

In 2003 the QAA Developmental Engagement expressed confidence in the academic standards set and achieved and in the quality of the learning opportunities that support students. The Report also praised the History course team and the attention given to student employability.

'The best students are comparable in attainment to the best anywhere. They make use of up-to-date research in historical journals and develop bibliographical and research skills, in line with aims and learning outcomes. Students are articulate and orally confident. The acquisition of transferable skills is clearly applicable to subsequent employment and lifelong learning.'

The views of our peers

History at The University of Northampton was praised for being 'imaginative and stimulating' in the 2003 Quality Assurance Agency inspection of the History Department. Its teaching and learning methods were noted as sound and innovative by History 2000 and by Subject Centre surveys, for example of feedback to student coursework, and for group presentations on History sources within Research skills classes.

Visiting The University of Northampton

There is no substitute for visiting an institution to find out what the facilities and atmosphere are really like. If you are considering studying history at Northampton, why not come and see us? There are regular visit and open days organised throughout the year.