what degree options does A level history give you

Completing A-Level History can significantly broaden your academic and career options, offering pathways into various degree programmes. While it directly supports studies in History, Archaeology, and Ancient History, its benefits extend to fields like Law, International Relations, Anthropology, and English Literature. The analytical, critical thinking, and research skills you develop during A-Level History are highly valued in these areas.

Why is this important? Well, these skills not only enhance your academic performance but also prepare you for diverse career opportunities. For instance, the ability to analyse complex information and construct well-reasoned arguments is crucial in Law and International Relations. Similarly, understanding historical contexts can enrich your studies in English Literature and Anthropology.

In short, A-Level History equips you with versatile skills, opening doors to a wide range of degree options and career paths.

Degrees Where A-Level History is Essential

A-Level History is a vital foundation for degrees that demand a solid grasp of historical contexts and strong analytical skills. Subjects like History, Archaeology, Ancient History, Medieval Studies, and Modern History often consider this qualification essential.

This is because A-Level History develops crucial abilities in critical thinking and research. These skills are invaluable for understanding timelines and evaluating historical events, which are core components of these fields.

History

For students who are eager to explore the past, pursuing a degree in History often feels like a natural choice. Many universities, such as the University of Plymouth, view A-Level History as a crucial requirement for admission into their History programmes. This is frequently highlighted in UCAS listings, ensuring that applicants have the analytical skills and historical knowledge necessary for success.

University	A-Level Requirement
University of Plymouth	History
University of Edinburgh	History
University of Oxford	History

These programmes equip graduates for various careers, including roles in education, research, and public service. Their deep understanding of historical contexts enables them to contribute significantly to societal development and cultural preservation.

Archaeology

Exploring beyond traditional historical studies, the field of archaeology offers another academic path where a solid foundation in history is highly valued. Archaeology degrees combine the detailed study of history with hands-on exploration of ancient sites and artefacts. For those passionate about uncovering the past, this field provides a unique way to contribute to our understanding of human civilizations.

Key benefits of an archaeology degree include:

• Interdisciplinary Knowledge: Blends history, anthropology, and geology to offer a well-rounded education.
• Fieldwork Opportunities: Provides practical experience through excavations and site studies.
• Cultural Preservation: Involves safeguarding historical artefacts and sites for future generations.

Ancient History

Pursuing a degree in Ancient History offers a thorough exploration of early civilisations and their enduring influence on the contemporary world. This path is particularly suitable for students with a strong foundation in historical studies, such as those who have excelled in A-levels, as it prepares them for the detailed study of ancient societies. Additionally, combining Ancient History with sociology can provide a more comprehensive understanding of human behaviour and social development.

Degree Component	Importance for Career
Historical Analysis	Essential for understanding past events
Archaeological Methods	Crucial for fieldwork and research
Sociological Theories	Enhances understanding of social structures
Language Studies	Key for interpreting ancient texts

This holistic approach prepares students to contribute to society through education, preservation, and cultural enrichment.

Medieval Studies

Medieval Studies is a crucial field within historical research, focusing on the intricate details of the Middle Ages. It provides students, especially those with an A-Level in History, with a deep understanding of the significant societal, political, and cultural changes that shaped medieval Europe. This degree is particularly valuable for anyone aiming to enhance their knowledge of this pivotal era.

For students with a GCSE in History and a BA (Hons) in Medieval Studies, a wide range of rewarding career paths is available. The OCR exam board's comprehensive History A-Level syllabus serves as an excellent starting point for these studies.

Key career opportunities include:

• Research and Academia: Engaging in scholarly research and teaching.
• Museum and Heritage Management: Preserving and interpreting historical artefacts.
• Archival Science: Managing and curating historical records.

These careers allow graduates to play a vital role in preserving history and educating others about the past.

Modern History

A-Level History is a crucial stepping stone for students who wish to pursue a degree in Modern History. These degree programmes focus on analysing recent historical events and their current impacts. BA (Hons) courses in Modern History delve into socio-political and economic changes from the late 19th century to today. Completing A-Level History equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills, which are vital for success in these programmes. Doing well in history exams can significantly boost your application, showcasing a strong foundation in historical analysis and research methods.

Degree Programme	Key Focus Areas
BA (Hons) Modern History	20th Century Wars
BA (Hons) Contemporary History	Cold War & Post-Cold War Era
BA (Hons) Political History	Political Movements & Reforms
BA (Hons) Social History	Social Changes & Cultural Shifts

This educational path empowers future historians to make meaningful contributions to society.

Degrees Where A-Level History is Useful

A-Level History offers a strong foundation for degrees that explore human societies and their evolution. Subjects like Anthropology, Classics, Cultural Studies, English Literature, and Geography benefit greatly from the analytical skills and historical knowledge gained through this qualification.

Understanding historical contexts enhances critical thinking and deepens the study of these varied fields.

Anthropology

Understanding how cultures and societies have developed over time is a key part of A-Level History and provides a solid foundation for pursuing a degree in Anthropology. This interdisciplinary field delves into the complexities of human societies, making historical knowledge extremely valuable. A-Level History equips students with the critical thinking and analytical skills essential for anthropological studies.

Several key areas where a background in history enhances an Anthropology degree include:

• Historical Context: Knowing how societies have evolved helps you analyse current anthropological data more effectively.
• Research Skills: Being skilled in historical research methods enables you to conduct thorough investigations in anthropology.
• Cultural Awareness: Learning about various historical cultures fosters a deeper understanding of human diversity.

For those passionate about helping others, a degree in Anthropology offers a meaningful way to understand and address societal issues.

Classics

Studying Classics provides a deep dive into ancient civilizations. When you have a background in History, it enhances your understanding of their languages, literature, and cultural developments. A BA (Hons) in Classics can be significantly enriched by the knowledge and analytical skills gained from A-Level History. Reading ancient texts and understanding historical contexts becomes easier, allowing for a richer appreciation of the cultural and societal intricacies of classical antiquity.

Degree Focus	Skills Enhanced	Career Opportunities
Ancient Languages	Translation, Philology	Academia, Research, Museum Curation
Classical Literature	Critical Analysis, Writing	Publishing, Education, Journalism
Archaeology	Fieldwork, Data Analysis	Heritage Management, Archaeological Sites

Having a background in History boosts your ability to preserve and interpret the legacies of the past, making your contributions more impactful.

Cultural Studies

Often, a strong background in History is essential when aiming for a degree in Cultural Studies, as it significantly aids in understanding societal changes and cultural developments. A BA (Hons) in Cultural Studies explores the complex web of human cultures, necessitating a deep grasp of historical contexts to effectively examine current issues.

Students frequently find their history knowledge valuable in:

• Investigating cultural trends: Historical insights help in understanding socio-cultural patterns.
• Participating in internships: Knowledge of history enhances experiences in museums, cultural institutions, and NGOs.
• Building critical thinking skills: Analysing past events hones the ability to evaluate contemporary cultural narratives.

Therefore, A-Level History equips students with crucial tools for a rewarding career in Cultural Studies, fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and societal advancement.

English Literature

A-Level History offers a crucial foundation for students aiming to study English Literature at university. It helps them understand the historical backgrounds that influence literary works, which is essential for deeper analysis. This background knowledge allows BA (Hons) English Literature students to interpret texts with more depth and insight.

Studying history also improves note-taking skills, which are vital for organising complex literary themes and arguments. Moreover, the critical thinking skills developed through A-Level History are indispensable for analysing and critiquing literature. This kind of rigorous training helps students write well-informed, persuasive essays and engage in meaningful discussions, significantly enhancing their academic and professional growth.

For those interested in careers like teaching, writing, or community work, this combination of historical understanding and literary analysis is particularly valuable. It equips them with the tools to educate, inform, and inspire others effectively.

Geography

Understanding historical contexts is crucial for students studying Geography, as it helps them analyse how landscapes and human-environment interactions have evolved over time. A-Level History provides students with critical thinking skills that are essential for a BA (Hons) in Geography. The interdisciplinary nature of geography is greatly enriched by the historical insights gained during AS-Level and International A-Level studies.

Students with a background in history can:

• Assess historical land use and its impact on current geographical issues.
• Understand the socio-political factors that influence environmental policies.
• Analyse historical climate data to predict future trends.

These skills are invaluable for those aiming to contribute to sustainable development, urban planning, or environmental conservation. Therefore, A-Level History is a significant asset for Geography students.

International Relations

A strong background in history equips students with the analytical skills needed to excel in International Relations. Understanding past events is essential for tackling today's global challenges.

Pursuing a BA (Hons) in International Relations allows students to delve into the complex interactions between countries, policies, and global institutions.

For those seeking practical experience alongside academic learning, an apprenticeship in a related field provides valuable hands-on experience.

Additionally, flexible online courses offer an accessible way for both newcomers and working professionals to gain expertise in international diplomacy and conflict resolution.

Law

Many students discover that having a strong background in history can significantly improve their performance in law degrees. This is because history focuses on critical thinking and analysing contexts, which are key skills in law. The analytical abilities developed through A-Level History are directly applicable to a BA (Hons) in Law, making the transition easier. Furthermore, universities often view history as a valuable subject when considering applicants for law degrees.

Key benefits of studying A-Level History for aspiring law students include:

• Improved research skills: Useful for building legal arguments.
• Critical analysis: Crucial for understanding case law and legal precedents.
• Contextual understanding: Aids in grasping the development of legal systems.

Moreover, combining history with relevant work experience can greatly enhance a student's application and preparedness for a legal career.

Philosophy

Philosophy degrees benefit greatly from the analytical and contextual skills developed through A-Level History studies. Students pursuing a BA (Hons) in Philosophy find that their history background gives them a solid grasp of historical context, which is essential for understanding and dissecting philosophical arguments.

The detailed analysis of historical events closely mirrors the critical thinking required in philosophy, providing a strong intellectual foundation.

While philosophy is not a science, its systematic approach to inquiry is similar, enhancing students' problem-solving abilities. This makes history students well-prepared for the theoretical and practical challenges of philosophy.

For those interested in vocational training, the transferable skills gained—such as critical analysis, clear argumentation, and contextual comprehension—are invaluable in various professional fields, including education, ethics, and public service.

Politics

Studying A-Level History provides valuable skills and knowledge for students interested in pursuing a degree in Politics. A BA in Politics often requires a comprehensive understanding of historical events, ideologies, and political movements, which A-Level History covers thoroughly.

This subject promotes critical thinking and a detailed approach to complex issues, both of which are essential for a career in public service or governance.

Key benefits include:

• Enhanced Research Skills: The research techniques developed in history courses are directly applicable to political studies.
• Critical Analysis: Assessing historical sources hones the ability to evaluate modern political arguments.
• Contextual Understanding: An awareness of historical contexts helps in understanding current political scenarios and policy decisions.

These skills make A-Level History an excellent preparation for a BA in Politics.

Sociology

Students who do well in A-Level History often find that the skills they gain—like analysis and research—are incredibly useful for studying Sociology at university. A BA (Hons) in Sociology provides a distinct perspective on how societies function and behave, making it an attractive option for history students.

The critical thinking, data interpretation, and understanding of context developed through history studies are directly applicable to sociological research. This degree teaches you how to examine social issues, influence policy, and support community initiatives.

History students, with their knack for evaluating sources and building strong arguments, are particularly well-suited to Sociology, where these abilities are crucial for making a real impact on society.

Theology and Religious Studies

Besides Sociology, students with an A-Level in History will find their analytical skills and deep understanding of cultural contexts especially useful when pursuing degrees in Theology and Religious Studies. This field demands a sharp ability to analyse ancient texts, interpret historical religious movements, and grasp the cultural implications of religious beliefs.

Key benefits include:

• Analytical Skills: History students excel in critical thinking and analysis, which are essential for theological studies.
• Cultural Insight: Understanding various historical contexts helps in comprehending different religious traditions.
• Research Proficiency: The rigorous research skills developed in history courses are invaluable for theological research.

These strengths make history an excellent foundation for those aiming to serve others through theological and religious careers.

Art History

A-Level History students will find their skills in critical analysis and contextual understanding particularly beneficial when pursuing a degree in Art History. The BA (Hons) in Art History explores the visual culture of various periods, requiring a solid grasp of historical contexts. Students trained in history excel at evaluating sources, constructing arguments, and understanding the broader cultural and societal factors that influence art. These abilities are crucial for analysing artworks and understanding their significance within specific historical frameworks.

Moreover, the capacity to synthesise information from different historical periods and regions aligns well with the interdisciplinary nature of art history, making A-Level History students well-prepared for this academic path. By bridging history and visual arts, they contribute to a deeper understanding of humanity's cultural heritage.

In essence, A-Level History students bring valuable skills to the study of Art History, enriching their analysis of artworks and enhancing their appreciation of the cultural contexts in which these works were created.

Education

Beyond Art History, the analytical and research skills developed through A-Level History are incredibly useful for students considering degrees in Education. A BA (Hons) in Education or Teaching can greatly benefit from the critical thinking and evidence-based analysis that history studies provide. These skills are essential for several key areas:

• Curriculum Development: Crafting detailed and engaging lesson plans.
• Classroom Management: Applying effective teaching strategies to create a productive learning environment.
• Educational Research: Conducting studies to enhance teaching methods and improve student outcomes.

A-Level History helps future educators analyse historical contexts, leading to a better understanding of how societal influences shape education. This foundation equips graduates to inspire and guide students, making a significant impact in the field of education.

Journalism

Using the critical thinking and research skills gained from A-Level History, students pursuing a degree in Journalism can effectively investigate, analyse, and report complex stories with precision. History promotes a deep understanding of societal contexts, which is invaluable for any budding journalist. The BA (Hons) in Journalism builds on this foundation, allowing students to create engaging narratives that inform the public.

The analytical skills developed in history courses are directly applicable to journalism. Understanding past events and trends is vital for insightful reporting. Additionally, the detailed attention required in historical research enhances a journalist's ability to fact-check and present balanced viewpoints. This helps in creating a well-informed and engaged audience.

Public Administration

Studying history at A-Level provides students with a strong grasp of governance and policy-making, making it an ideal precursor to a degree in Public Administration. A BA (Hons) in Public Administration benefits greatly from the analytical skills and contextual understanding gained through history studies.

Students aspiring to work in public service can use their historical knowledge to:

• Grasp the development of governmental systems.
• Assess the long-term impacts of policies.
• Formulate well-informed strategies for today's issues.

Having a background in history enhances critical thinking and offers a detailed perspective on the intricacies of public governance.

This degree opens doors to various public sector roles, such as policy advisors and administrative managers, enabling graduates to make significant contributions to society.

Social Work

Having a solid grounding in A-Level History provides students with essential critical thinking and analytical skills, which are crucial for a successful career in social work. When pursuing a BA (Hons) in Social Work, the detailed understanding of societal changes and human behaviour gained from studying history is highly beneficial.

History students learn to examine complex social issues, a vital skill in social work, where understanding various contexts is key. Additionally, the research and evidence-based methods developed during history studies are directly relevant to social work practices.

Therefore, the interdisciplinary insights gained from A-Level History not only enhance a BA (Hons) in Social Work but also equip graduates to make meaningful contributions to community welfare.

Degrees Where A-Level Further History is Essential

For those aiming to delve deeper into historical studies, having an A-Level in Further History is often crucial.

This qualification equips students with a solid grounding in historical analysis and research techniques, which are vital for demanding academic courses.

Universities typically look for this background to ensure applicants have the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in specialised history degrees.

Advanced Historical Studies

Pursuing advanced historical studies at the university level often requires a solid foundation in A-Level Further History, highlighting its importance for in-depth academic exploration. This preparation is crucial for those aiming to earn a BA (Hons) in History, where a thorough understanding of past events and contexts is essential.

Advanced historical studies include:

• Rigorous historical research, which allows students to uncover new insights and perspectives.
• Development of analytical skills, vital for interpreting complex historical data.
• Comprehensive knowledge of various historical periods and regions, fostering a well-rounded scholarly approach.

These elements equip students not only for academic success but also to make meaningful contributions to society by understanding how history shapes the present and future.

Degrees Where A-Level Further History is Useful

A-Level Further History lays a strong foundation for various advanced degree programmes. Fields like Advanced Archaeology, Advanced Classics, and Advanced Medieval Studies greatly benefit from the analytical skills and in-depth contextual understanding that this subject fosters.

Moreover, degrees in Advanced Modern History and Advanced Cultural Studies also find this background particularly useful for conducting nuanced research and critically examining historical contexts.

Advanced Archaeology

In the field of advanced archaeology, having a strong background in A-Level Further History can significantly boost one's grasp of historical contexts and research techniques. This educational combination is particularly beneficial for those looking to study archaeology at university, as it provides students with a deeper understanding of ancient societies and the skills needed to analyse archaeological discoveries.

Key benefits include:

• Improved Analytical Skills: Develop the critical thinking and analytical abilities essential for archaeological research.
• Contextual Knowledge: Gain a thorough understanding of historical events and timelines that are crucial for archaeological studies.
• Research Skills: Learn advanced research methods necessary for conducting excavations and historical evaluations.

Together, these elements prepare students to engage more effectively in archaeology, fostering a deep appreciation for history and its physical traces.

Advanced Classics

For students aiming for a degree in Advanced Classics, having a background in A-Level Further History can be incredibly beneficial. This background helps students understand the complex connections between ancient civilizations and their cultural legacies, which is crucial for those pursuing a BA (Hons) in Classics.

With this knowledge, students can better analyze primary sources and understand historical contexts.

A-Level Further History also equips students with essential critical thinking skills and a detailed perspective on the development of societies, art, and thought. This foundation enhances a Classics curriculum, allowing students to appreciate ancient texts, languages, and artifacts more deeply.

Ultimately, this knowledge enables graduates to contribute meaningfully to academic research, education, and cultural preservation.

Advanced Medieval Studies

Building on the analytical skills and historical insight developed through A-Level Further History, students are well-prepared to pursue degrees in Advanced Medieval Studies. A BA (Hons) in History with a focus on Medieval Studies provides students with a thorough understanding of the social, political, and cultural landscapes of the Middle Ages. This interdisciplinary field is especially valuable for those aiming to work in academia, museums, or heritage organisations.

Key areas of study include:

• Medieval Literature: Delving into texts that shaped the intellectual and cultural context of the era.
• Archaeology: Discovering and interpreting material remains from medieval times.
• Church and State Relations: Examining the complex balance of power and influence between religious and political spheres.

Such a degree cultivates a deep appreciation for history and equips students with the skills needed for roles in education and cultural preservation.

Advanced Modern History

A-Level Further History is an excellent stepping stone for students planning to pursue a degree in Advanced Modern History, where strong analytical and critical thinking skills are essential. The demanding curriculum of a BA (Hons) in History helps students develop the ability to analyse complex events, appreciate diverse viewpoints, and critically assess sources.

These skills are crucial not only for historical research but also for careers in teaching, where explaining detailed historical narratives clearly is important.

Moreover, graduates with a BA (Hons) in History often find themselves well-equipped for roles that require strong analytical skills, such as policy analysis and archival management. This makes it a versatile degree for those dedicated to making informed decisions and contributing to education and society.

Advanced Cultural Studies

Students with a background in A-Level Further History often find their analytical skills and understanding of cultural contexts make them well-suited for degrees in Advanced Cultural Studies. These programmes typically focus on the complex relationship between historical events and cultural phenomena, offering a rich field for those eager to work with diverse communities.

A BA (Hons) in Cultural Studies can lead to various career opportunities, including:

• Cultural Policy Development: Creating policies to preserve and promote cultural heritage.
• Museum and Heritage Management: Managing historical sites and cultural institutions.
• Media and Communications: Producing and analyzing content with historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity.

This degree not only broadens your knowledge but also equips you with practical skills that are valued in many sectors.

Historical Research

Students with an A-Level in Further History are well-prepared for degrees in Historical Research. Their analytical skills and deep understanding of historical contexts make them valuable candidates. Pursuing a BA (Hons) in Historical Research helps students critically examine past events, providing essential insights for both academic and other professional fields. This degree fosters an appreciation of diverse historical narratives and methodologies, encouraging a commitment to intellectual rigour and public service.

Degree Programme	Key Skills Developed	Career Opportunities
BA (Hons) Historical Research	Analytical Thinking	Academic Researcher
History Degree	Critical Evaluation	Museum Curator
Historical Research	Comprehensive Understanding	Historical Consultant

These programmes are crucial for those dedicated to preserving and interpreting history for future generations.

Historical Conservation

Historical conservation is an essential field where the skills gained from A-Level Further History are incredibly useful. Pursuing a BA (Hons) degree in historical conservation equips students with the knowledge and techniques needed to preserve and protect cultural heritage. This degree provides a solid foundation for a rewarding career dedicated to maintaining historical artefacts and sites.

Advantages of earning a degree in historical conservation include:

• Developing expertise in the materials and methods used in conservation work.
• Gaining hands-on experience through internships and fieldwork.
• Engaging in interdisciplinary studies that cover history, chemistry, and art.

For those passionate about safeguarding history for future generations, a BA (Hons) in historical conservation offers a meaningful and impactful career choice.

Museum Studies

Building on skills developed in historical conservation, a degree in Museum Studies enables individuals to curate, manage, and interpret historical collections in museums and cultural institutions.

A BA (Hons) in Museum Studies provides students with a comprehensive understanding of history, artefact preservation, and exhibition design. This degree is especially advantageous for those with A-Level History, as it deepens their knowledge of historical contexts and analytical skills.

Graduates can explore diverse roles such as museum curators, archivists, or educators. These positions are crucial for preserving and sharing cultural heritage.

The interdisciplinary nature of Museum Studies ensures graduates are well-prepared to engage the public, making history both accessible and interesting.