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 offers a broad exploration of British, European, and global history from the Renaissance to the twenty-first century, incorporating fieldwork at historical locations ranging from country houses to industrial cities. Students are encouraged to organise and market public conferences to present research, while benefiting from the guidance of a dedicated teaching team of published experts. The course equips students with a strong set of critical, theoretical, and transferable skills, providing a competitive advantage in graduate careers. Derby ranks first for learning opportunities and assessment and feedback in History in the National Student Survey 2025, is in the top five for learning resources, top ten for career prospects in the Guardian University Guide 2025, and top twenty for graduate prospects in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.

Students apply research and creative skills to interpret the past for the wider community, with opportunities to collaborate on projects involving international arts and heritage organisations. Recent initiatives have included work with Derby Museums on communicating history to the public and a project linked to 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 the experiences of British prisoners-of-war during 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, including work with the Bolsover Place programme to explore heritage-based marketing strategies.