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Bachelor of Arts
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Durham University
Durham
United Kingdom

History with Foundation

About

Durham University’s Bachelor of Arts in History with Foundation Year is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed for students who wish to study history but may not meet the direct entry requirements. The program begins with a foundation year that provides students with the necessary academic skills and knowledge to succeed in the study of history, followed by three years of in-depth study of historical events, periods, and methodologies.

The program covers a wide range of historical periods, from ancient civilizations to modern history, with a focus on critical thinking, research skills, and historical analysis. Students will engage with primary sources, historical theory, and historiography, culminating in an independent research project. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in education, research, heritage management, museums, and public history.

Key information

Duration
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Tuition fee
$34,185.00/year
Start dates & application deadlines
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More details
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Key Facts

Program Title: Bachelor of Arts in History with Foundation
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Duration: 4 Years
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Start Date: 30th January 2026
Location: University of Durham, United Kingdom
Field of Study: History
Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Year 1 – Foundations in History

  • Introduction to Historical Methods and Sources
  • Early Modern History: 1500-1800
  • Ancient Civilizations: A Global Perspective
  • Thematic Approaches to History
  • Introduction to Research and Writing in History

Year 2 – Core Historical Concepts and Analysis

  • Medieval History: Europe and the World
  • Modern European History: 1800-1945
  • Global Histories and Interactions
  • Political and Social Movements in History
  • Advanced Research Methods in History

Year 3 – Specialized Historical Studies

  • History of Empires and Colonialism
  • Economic and Social History
  • History of Science and Technology
  • Global Histories of Conflict and Peace
  • Dissertation and Independent Research

Year 4 – Advanced History and Final Project

  • Historiography and Contemporary Historical Debate
  • Specialized Topics in Global History
  • Public History and Digital Archives
  • Professional Development and Research Skills
  • Dissertation and Final Project

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the History with Foundation program from Durham University are well-prepared for careers in education, research, heritage management, and policy analysis. Career opportunities include positions in teaching, museum curation, heritage consultancy, public history, and research institutions. Many graduates go on to work in historical societies, government agencies, international organizations, or cultural institutions. With a strong foundation in historical research, critical analysis, and communication, you will be well-equipped to contribute to understanding and preserving global history.

Why Choose This Program

Durham University’s History with Foundation program offers a comprehensive study of global history, preparing students to engage critically with past events and their impact on the present. The foundation year ensures students build the necessary academic skills for success in history, while later years provide opportunities to specialize and develop expertise in specific areas of historical study. The program’s focus on historical research, global history, and critical analysis ensures you will be well-prepared for a variety of careers in history and related fields. With access to expert faculty, research resources, and opportunities for fieldwork, you will gain a strong understanding of history and its contemporary relevance.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)191 334 2000
Email: admissions@durham.ac.uk
Address: University of Durham, Durham DH1 3LE, United Kingdom