Brief details:

A-level history is a rich and varied course, covering social, economic and political change in different time periods and countries. It is an academically challenging but intellectually satisfying subject. In addition to interesting topics, the study of History at A-level develops skills in research, building and arguing a case, decision-making, interpreting evidence and understanding the causes and impacts of significant historical events.

Preferred entry requirements:

At least grade 5 at GCSE History and grade 5 at GCSE English

Units studied:

• Unit 1: England 1445-1501 – Lancastrians, Yorkists and Henry VII, with a focus on the War of the Roses
• Unit 2: Russia 1894-1941
• Unit 3: The Changing Nature of Warfare 1792-1945
• Unit 4: Coursework assignment

Exam board: OCR

Course assessment:

This course is assessed with final examinations (80%) and coursework (20%).

Progression and career opportunities:

History is an excellent course to study. It is recognised as being beneficial to a wide range of careers, including journalism, management, consultancy, politics, law and teaching. The skills gained are seen as valuable to any line of work, as it builds transferable skills in argument building, interpreting and evaluating opinions, making inferences and researching independently. History is therefore an enabling A-level, and can be utilised for applying to any degree course through UCAS. It is no coincidence that history, at both GCE and graduate level, is one of the most employable subjects to study.