History and Politics

History and politics are disciplines that share a fundamental conviction: that the present cannot be understood without the past, and that the past is always mediated by the political frameworks that produce and interpret its records. Contemporary politics, political organisations, and social movements make sense only when examined against longer historical patterns, while history itself is shaped by the political assumptions and questions of those who write it. Studying the two together develops an unusually rich and critical framework for understanding societies as they are and as they have been.

At Westminster this three-year full-time degree equips you with the analytical tools to explore and understand societies in both historical and contemporary dimensions. You will study the forces, political, social, economic, and cultural, that have shaped the world across different periods and places, alongside the theories, institutions, and processes through which power is exercised and contested in contemporary life. The programme includes a sandwich year, a year abroad, and work placement opportunities, giving you substantial professional experience in a relevant organisation, international exposure, and direct contact with the practical world beyond the classroom.

Westminster's London location provides exceptional access to political, cultural, and media organisations.

Graduates from history and politics go on to careers in the civil service, politics, journalism, international organisations, policy, law, education, heritage, and public affairs. The combination of historical perspective and political analysis is valued across many sectors, and the research, writing, and argumentative skills the degree develops are among the most transferable available. Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in history, politics, or public policy.