History and Politics

History explains the past. Politics shapes the future. Combine both to explore the events, ideas, and institutions influencing today’s world.

How do past events shape today’s political decisions?
Explore pressing issues in contemporary politics on this BA History & Politics degree, including geopolitical rivalry, the impact of misinformation and social media, and the resurgence of right-wing populism. You’ll uncover the historical roots of today’s challenges by studying the rise of the nation-state, European imperialism, and the ideological conflicts of the 20th century.

Together, these perspectives will help you to understand the forces shaping our society today — and the ideas that will define tomorrow.

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 key concepts, methods, and approaches in both history and politics, then apply these to your studies with confidence and creativity



• Learn to analyse primary sources and the writings of historians and political scientists



• Investigate political theory and key issues around governance and international relations



Find out more

Understand today’s world through the lens of history and politics
By combining history and politics, you’ll develop the ability to analyse evidence, evaluate competing perspectives, and understand the historical context behind today’s political debates. You’ll explore the ideas, ideologies, institutions, and policies that shape societies while building the research, communication, and critical thinking skills valued across a wide range of sectors.

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 is built into the first year of your degree.

During your second and third years, you’ll be able to choose modules with live brief challenges – real projects designed by employers – and work placement opportunities.

Why study the BA History & Politics course at Leeds Beckett University?
• Explore contemporary political issues through the lens of history, from conflict and climate change to democracy and global power



• Bring your learning to life by contributing to real-world heritage and digital history projects, including initiatives such as the Leeds Blitz website



• Develop transferable digital, communication, research, and analytical skills through a range of innovative assessments like podcasting, museum reports, and blog writing



• Benefit from our strong partnerships with community organisations and opportunities to apply your learning beyond the classroom



• Learn from expert academics whose teaching connects historical insight with modern political debate

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 (Uni Compare 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 (Uni Compare, 2026 reviews).