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Undergraduate

History and Philosophy BA (Hons)

What is History and Philosophy BA (Hons)?

Examine key ideas about what it means to be human, and the events and developments which have shaped humanity’s world. This course is for those who want to ask deep questions about what it means to be human, to explore other people’s answers to those questions, and the ways that they’ve shaped actions and society in particular times and places.

Our Philosophy courses are ranked 6th in the UK for student satisfaction by the Complete University Guide 2023.

Our students don’t just study what others have said, or learn names and dates – they are philosophers and historians, investigating and interpreting evidence and ideas for themselves, in order to understand individual, social and cultural identities. Working closely with subject experts as you develop deep knowledge in your field, you’ll gain highly desirable skills in investigative, analytical research and communication.

Study style

You’ll learn through lectures, seminars, tutorials and student-led sessions, supported by digital technologies. Small group discussions allow you to connect with expert tutors and other students, with excellent environments for learning and strong group identity. You’ll choose modules to explore your interests and shape your own studies.

You’ll gain hands-on experience with historical documentation and artefacts, as well as closely examining texts and ideas – helping you to build essential skills for work within and beyond university. You’re able to specialise in British, European, American and Soviet history, as well as in philosophies from Ancient Greece to the digital age, allowing you to shape your studies in ways which match your interests.

Get History and Philosophy BA (Hons) course updates and hear more about studying with us.

Entry requirements

    • 96 – 112 UCAS tariff points, CCC – BBC  at A levels, MMM – DMM at BTEC or a Merit in your T-Level.

      If you are unsure whether we could make you an offer or you have any questions, just get in touch with our admissions team who will be able to advise you.

    • English Language or Literature and Maths Grade 4/C in GCSE (or equivalent) are normally required.

    • This course is available with an integrated foundation year to help you prepare. A degree with an integrated foundation year starts your studies with a year spent learning the skills required to progress onto a full honours degree. You will develop valuable study skills, communication, team work and problem-solving techniques which help to build your confidence and prepare you for the rest of your course.

      Typical offers
      48 UCAS tariff points, DD at A levels, PPP at BTEC or a Pass in your T Level.

      GCSEs
      Grade C/4 in English Language/Literature and Mathematics, or equivalent (e.g. Level 2 Functional Skills).

    • We welcome applications from mature students (aged 21 and over) and do not necessarily require the same academic qualifications as school leaving applicants, although some entry requirements may still apply for Professionally Accredited Courses. We accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas and make offers on an individual basis.

Fees and costs

See the further details of fees and potential extra costs when studying a course at the University of Gloucestershire.
Start date Location UCAS code Fee (UK)
per year
Fee (international)
per year
Sep 2024 Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham V152 TBC TBC

Possible careers

Graduates from this course can go on to work in:

  • heritage and museums
  • third sector/NGO/Charities
  • publishing
  • teaching
  • human resources
  • media/journalism
  • social care
  • research and consultancy
  • politics.

Industry links

Our partnerships with archives, museums and societies enable students to explore the heritage industry and reflect on the philosophies of local and professional organisations. A variety of guest speakers, as well as local and international partnerships with museums, archives and philosophical groups will also enrich your learning.

Work with history and philosophy experts

Gain an excellent grasp of key historical and philosophical ideas, events and developments, and understand the role they play in shaping one another and our ever-changing world.

Become an independent historian and philosopher

Grow your intellectual initiative and research skills in a supportive environment. Enjoy opportunities to challenge yourself in developing abilities to ethically interpret and evaluate key texts, events and ideas.

Explore human culture, ideas and identity

You’ll develop your learning by engaging with others and wider society – with empathy, insight and confidence.

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Ranked 6th in the UK for student satisfaction

Our philosophy courses are ranked 6th in the UK for student satisfaction by the Complete University Guide 2023.

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Ranked 12th in the UK for teaching quality

Our history courses are ranked 12th in the UK for teaching quality by The Times Good University Guide 2023.

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Ranked in the top 15 in the UK for student experience

Our history courses are ranked in the top 15 in the UK for student experience by The Times Good University Guide 2023.

Trips and experiences

Unique placement, field trip and study abroad opportunities support your learning on the course. Previous destinations have included the USA, Canada, India and Spain, as well as various UK destinations.

Placements

Through field trips, projects and placement opportunities, you’ll get hands-on experience of ideas and artefacts, providing opportunities to gain key employability skills.

"My passion for history originates with the blues"

“I’ve loved the blues since I was little, and through it I became aware of the issues surrounding African American history: slavery, civil rights, culture, and the influence this had on American society. A real highlight for me has been the publication of my book Blues, How Do You Do? Published with University of Michigan Press (August 2015). In my teaching I use culture as a new way of exploring the past, providing new and previously unheard interpretations.”

Christian O’Connell, Academic Course Leader in History

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