History and Politics with Foundation Year

History and politics are disciplines that belong together. Contemporary states, political institutions, ideologies, and conflicts cannot be fully understood without knowing the historical processes through which they emerged, and history itself is enriched by the analytical frameworks that political science provides. Studying the two together enables you to move between past and present with fluency, connecting historical investigation to live political debates and seeing the long roots of issues that can otherwise appear new.

At York St John this four-year full-time programme includes a foundation year that provides additional preparation and support before you progress to the main degree. You will develop a deep understanding of the institutions, processes, and events that shape society, combining historical inquiry with close attention to contemporary political debates and issues. The programme includes a sandwich year, a year abroad, and work placement opportunities, giving you professional experience in a relevant organisation, the opportunity to study in a different political and historical context, and direct contact with the practical world beyond the classroom.

York St John's teaching is grounded in research and delivered by staff with specialisms across a wide range of historical periods and political themes.

Graduates from history and politics programmes go on to careers in the civil service, journalism, public affairs, policy, law, education, local government, political parties, NGOs, and the cultural and heritage sectors. The combination of analytical rigour, research skills, and awareness of how power functions over time is valued by employers across a very wide range of sectors. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in history, politics, or public policy, using the foundations of their degree to develop specialist expertise.