About Modern History and Politics, BA (Hons) - at Keele University

From historical events to political affairs, uncover the past and examine the key influences shaping today's society on Keele's Modern History and Politics BA. Learn how to apply history to address urgent issues facing politics and discover the complex challenges and contemporary issues in an ever-changing political world. Become equipped for an exciting career in the public or private sector, with advanced skills in problem-solving, analytical thinking and effective communication. Course overview Examine urgent issues facing politics and the influence of history in today's society through our Modern History and Politics degree at Keele.

The integration of both subjects enables you to link academic theory to practices of government policy and political behaviour to make sense of people, ideas, and how these have affected societies through time. Learn to apply historical events to understand the power of global democracy, investigating the past and how this continues to shape society. You will be introduced to chronology and theory, debating 'defining moments' in the last 1000 years and how these have shaped the lives we live today. Our BA programme enables you to make sense of politics through exploring concepts of power and democracy and applying these themes to contemporary issues to better understand the political world.

In a global framework, you will explore economic, political, social and cultural approaches to History and grapple with a wide range of challenges including processes of political change, how decisions are made and how political systems operate in practice. In doing so, you will consider how we can build a better future. You will develop your understanding of key historical themes and issues and how they have affected individuals through time, whilst critically analysing the interplay between government and society. With a foundation across history and politics, you will be able to apply your knowledge to specialist case studies and produce a 'Final Year History Project' or a 'Dissertation in Political and International Relations, or both.

Your academic studies will be complemented and enhanced through optional modules that allow you to explore professional development opportunities, gaining experience across both subjects in preparation for employment. You'll also have the opportunity to study abroad with a partner university, to learn a modern language , or to gain a recognised TESOL qualification , through our Global Challenges Pathway, which will help you to develop global perspectives and build your awareness and experience of other cultures and practices. *We have compared the positivity ratings of all participating UK institutions using the NSS 2025 sector data to determine Keele's position relative to other broad-based universities (i.e. excluding specialist institutions and further education colleges). Related courses Criminology and History Education and History English and History History Modern History and International Relations International Relations and Politics Philosophy and Politics Philosophy, Politics and Economics Politics Politics and Sociology Politics with Economics Politics ranked Top 10 in England (NSS 2025, broad-based universities)* Become part of a close-knit and supportive academic community that encourages you to discuss and debate with your lecturers and peers, and better appreciate the views of others Explore economic, political, social and cultural approaches to History Opportunity to gain hands-on experience in UK Parliamentary Studies in Year 3 Engage in work placement opportunities that provide a rich experience, preparing you for employment after university For more details, please see the course page on the Keele website.

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Entry requirements for this course

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