Integrated Foundation - Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - History

History is a subject suited to those with a sense of curiosity and a desire for a deeper understanding of the world. The BA (Hons) History degree at Derby provides a foundation for developing critical thinking skills and an appreciation of how past experiences have shaped people’s lives and societies. The course offers a broad exploration of British, European, and global history from the Renaissance to the twentieth century and includes opportunities for fieldwork at historical locations ranging from country houses to industrial cities. Students are encouraged to engage in public history projects, including organising and marketing high-profile conferences, while benefiting from the guidance of a dedicated teaching team of published experts. The programme equips students with a strong set of critical, theoretical, and transferable skills, enhancing career prospects. Derby has achieved first place for learning opportunities and assessment and feedback in History in the National Student Survey 2025, and ranks highly for learning resources, career prospects, and graduate outcomes in national guides.

Students use research and creative skills to interpret the past for wider communities, with opportunities to collaborate on projects involving international arts and heritage organisations. Recent initiatives have included work with Derby Museums on public engagement, and a project on British Imperialism at the National Trust’s Kedleston Hall, exploring heritage, ownership, and identity. Students also present research at public conferences on topics such as British prisoners-of-war in the First World War, the misreporting of Karl Marx’s death, and the emergence of French national identity following the revolution.

Derbyshire’s rich industrial heritage and thriving heritage industry, including a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides an ideal setting for studying history. The course incorporates study visits and field trips, enabling practical and intellectual applications of historical knowledge in museums, art galleries, country houses, parks, and heritage sites. Collaboration with external partners allows students to undertake research projects used by history and heritage organisations, such as the Bolsover Place programme, which explored heritage marketing strategies.

The inclusion of a foundation year in the four-year study programme provides a head start in academic and professional development. The foundation year strengthens skills, knowledge, and confidence with extensive support from expert staff, offering a solid platform for progressing to stage one of the honours degree. This route is particularly beneficial for those considering a career change or wishing to gain familiarity with new subject areas. The degree with a foundation year is continuous, so reapplication is not required upon successful completion of the first year.