Modern and Contemporary History BA (Hons)

This BA (Hons) Modern and Contemporary History provides the opportunity to study Welsh, British, European and American history from the French Revolution and Britain’s Industrial Revolution to the present day.

On this Modern and Contemporary History degree youll be introduced to different historiographical schools of though, from chronological and geographical approaches to social, environmental, world, economic, cultural, gender history and more. You will examine contemporary issues in their historical context, exploring the origins of modern society and politics, from the Blitz to Brexit, Russia’s Cold War to the Ukraine War.

Studying History trains you intellectually to understand and solve problems through the interpretation of a host of different primary and secondary sources of information, written and otherwise. You’ll learn to process and synthesise vast amounts of information, form ideas and opinions, construct arguments, communicate and present written and verbal findings.

Bangor University is an ideal place to study your History degree, one of the oldest cities in Wales the main University building is a Grade 1 listed building. There are UNESCO World Heritage sites on our doorstep, including the Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales and Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Fieldtrips and excursions capitalise on our great location.

By studying History you’ll gain highly sought-after skills in communications and presentation, research, critical thinking and analysis, time management, teamworking and adaptability. Your experience and ability to investigate and solve problems, formulate and present logical and structured arguments, can be adapted to a range of professions.

‘Placement Year’ and International Experience Year’ options are available for this course. You will have the opportunity to fully consider these options when you have started your course at Bangor and can make an application for a transfer onto such a pathway at the appropriate time. You can find more information about these options on our website and if you have any questions, please get in touch.

If you don’t have the required qualifications for this degree-level course or are looking to re-enter education after time away from study, then a Foundation Year Programme might be the right choice for you. Please see History (with Foundation Year) V10F.

Make lifelong friends and build a future you can be proud of at Bangor University.

You’ll benefit from high quality teaching, expert support and a friendly learning environment at a top 20 UK university (Uni Compare Rankings 2027), while gaining real world experience through work placements and opportunities to study abroad. With accommodation guaranteed for all Clearing applicants, you can settle in quickly and start making the most of university life from day one.

Bangor’s stunning campus and close knit community make it easy to feel at home. Meet friends at Bar Uno, Pontio or Barlows, stay active at Brailsford Sports Centre, or learn in specialist facilities including a Natural History Museum, Botanic Garden, research ship, replica courtroom and fully equipped media centre.

Set between the mountains and the sea, with excellent transport links and a low cost of living, Bangor offers an outstanding student experience where you can belong, grow in confidence and shape your future. It’s time to make Bangor your new home!