History can be studied at Buckingham as a Major. This means that you study two-thirds History and one-third English Literature (or Economics, Journalism or Politics). This is not a pick-and-mix degree; the minor subjects are designed to integrate with the History modules.
The History Major is a new programme. It has been carefully designed and fine-tuned by Buckingham’s team of experienced and high-calibre historians. The History Major offers outline and conceptual modules which concentrate on the period from 1800 to the present day – though we do study some earlier periods too. Students progress to study the history of history and to reflect on historical method. In the last part of the course we study historical documents and texts, and develop research and writing skills through a long essay and a dissertation. So the programme not only teaches history; it also teaches you to think historically and to research and write history.
History is one of the five most popular subjects among UK university students, and with good reason. Having a historical perspective enables people to make sense of today’s rapidly changing world. Employers like it, because history teaches you to think for yourself, to work under pressure, and to construct a coherent argument from the evidence. Historical research has never been more exciting than it is today, with the Internet making available so many treasures from the archives.
The English Literature part of the degree concentrates on period study (mainly 16th-19th centuries) and modules inculcating theoretical and practical skills.

1. To provide historical knowledge of a range of topics and periods in British, European, international and imperial history, focussing on the 18th c, 19th c and 20th c , while providing a long-term perspective.
2. To ensure progression within the History programme by advancing to courses which require higher standards of conceptual sophistication and independent study.
3. To train students in the critical assessment of secondary sources and the presentation of a historical argument.
4. To train students in the critical use of texts and primary sources through in-depth study of a historical period.
5. To instil an awareness of the historical process and the evolution of historical thought.
6. To introduce students to historical research, independent study and presentation skills through writing a dissertation.
7. To provide knowledge of authors and literary texts from different periods, including before 1800.
8. To promote wide and varied reading in English literature, and to enable students to develop critical thinking and judgement.
9. To enable students to appreciate the resources of language and to engage in the critical analysis of literary and non-literary texts and discourse.

• Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (Link);
• Relevant Subject Benchmark Statement(s) (Link);
• Other (list)

Please note: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information on the learning outcomes, content and teaching, learning and assessment methods of each course unit/module can be found in the departmental or programme handbook. The accuracy of the information contained in this document is reviewed annually by the University of Buckingham and may be checked by the Quality Assurance Agency.