History and Philosophy, BA, University of Leeds

Course content

A joint honours degree allows you to study the same core topics as students on each single honours course, but you'll take fewer optional and discovery modules so you can fit in both subjects.

In your first year you'll study core modules in both subjects, which will lay the groundwork for your degree. You'll develop an awareness of historiography and explore key issues in philosophy. You'll also build key skills in each subject, such as constructing effective arguments. You'll also have the chance to take optional modules on topics such as philosophy of the mind or science, or key periods of history, or you can study discovery modules from across the University.

You'll build on these foundations in the following year, when you'll choose from optional modules in each subject. You'll maintain a balance across earlier and more recent history, as well as key areas in philosophy such as logic and language, mind and knowledge or value philosophy.

In your final year you'll continue to take a balanced approach to your choice of philosophical topics while focusing on a specific aspect of history in your special subject. The choices on offer reflect the research interests of our diverse School from the medieval period to the present day, and cut across historical approaches and geographies.

You'll also have the opportunity to demonstrate your skills in research, interpretation and analysis when you undertake an independently researched dissertation.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: AAB including A in History excluding General Studies and Critical Thinking.

  • Career opportunities

    You'll gain a broad base of skills from a Joint Honours degree in History and Philosophy.

    As well as in-depth subject knowledge, you'll have good research skills and be able to analyse complex information from a range of sources. You'll be able to construct clear and persuasive arguments, and present and defend them using your advanced communication skills. You'll also have good organisational skills from juggling two different subjects.

    Graduates have pursued diverse careers that reflect this variety, in areas like advertising and marketing, journalism, education, charity work, the civil service, business and finance, law and publishing.

    Careers support

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    All University of Leeds students can apply to spend a year studying abroad. It's a great way to gain an insight into another culture, as well as gaining valuable experience that will look great on your CV.

    The School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science also has exclusive exchange links with universities in Denmark, France and Spain - language classes are available before you go to prepare you for the experience.

    Read more about Study abroad in Philosophy, Religion and History of Science

    Work placements

    Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

    Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.