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Course type
Degree  

Degree

  • Also known as an undergraduate or bachelors degree.
  • Internationally respected, universally understood.
  • An essential requirement for many high-level jobs.
  • Gain a thorough understanding of your subject – and the tools to investigate, think critically, form reasoned arguments, solve problems and communicate effectively in new contexts.
  • Progress to higher level study, such as a postgraduate diploma or masters degree.
Credits
360  

Credits

  • Credits measure the student workload required for the successful completion of a module or qualification.
  • One credit represents about 10 hours of study over the duration of the course.
  • You are awarded credits after you have successfully completed a module.
  • For example, if you study a 60-credit module and successfully pass it, you will be awarded 60 credits.
How long it takes
Full-time study – 3 years
Part-time study – 6 years
Time limit – 16 years
See How long it takes
Study method
Distance learning
Entry requirements
Find out more about
Entry requirements
Ask a question

BA (Honours) History

Course code: Q01

This wide-ranging course will develop and deepen your knowledge of different periods of history from around 1500 to the late twentieth century. You’ll tackle such exciting and challenging issues as power and warfare, culture and beliefs, health and medicine, imperialism, race, class and gender. In doing so you'll learn the skills of the historian in studying historical materials; exploring how we understand, interpret and debate past events; and investigating a range of critical approaches.

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  • Explore a wide range of historical topics, periods and places
  • Find out what it means to be a historian
  • Have the opportunity to develop a project based on independent study
  • Study using custom-made teaching materials 
  • Develop skills in research, analysis and communication that are beneficial to a wide range of careers 

We also offer a Diploma of Higher Education in History (W66) that is the same in structure as the first two-thirds of this degree.

Course type
Degree  

Degree

  • Also known as an undergraduate or bachelors degree.
  • Internationally respected, universally understood.
  • An essential requirement for many high-level jobs.
  • Gain a thorough understanding of your subject – and the tools to investigate, think critically, form reasoned arguments, solve problems and communicate effectively in new contexts.
  • Progress to higher level study, such as a postgraduate diploma or masters degree.
Credits
360  

Credits

  • Credits measure the student workload required for the successful completion of a module or qualification.
  • One credit represents about 10 hours of study over the duration of the course.
  • You are awarded credits after you have successfully completed a module.
  • For example, if you study a 60-credit module and successfully pass it, you will be awarded 60 credits.
How long it takes
Full-time study – 3 years
Part-time study – 6 years
Time limit – 16 years
See How long it takes
Study method
Distance learning
Entry requirements

Find out more about Entry requirements

Ask a question

This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.

  • You’ll start Stage 1 with a broad introduction to the arts and humanities, followed by beginning your study of history.
  • Next, at Stage 2, you’ll study two compulsory modules covering the history of the British Isles and Europe across different time periods.
  • Finally, at Stage 3, you’ll complete your degree by choosing two modules from a range of options including the history of empire and twentieth-century Europe.  

Prepare for OU study with an Access module

We offer two starting points depending on how confident you are or how long it’s been since you last studied. Choose to dive straight in at Stage 1, or if you’d prefer some extra preparation, you can get started with an optional Access module. See Entry requirements for more details.

Our modular study approach allows you the flexibility to complete your qualification at a pace that fits around your other commitments. Whether you prefer a fast track or want to work at a slower rate, you can tailor your study plan to suit your needs.

Stage 1 (120 credits)

In Stage 1, you’ll encounter a variety of different times and places and engage with some fascinating people, artworks, ideas and stories. As a history student, this broad foundation will help you develop the skills and the confident, open approach you need to tackle more specialist history modules at Stages 2 and 3.

ModulesCredits
You'll study both of the following:
Discovering the arts and humanities (A111)60
Revolutions (A113)60

Stage 2 (120 credits)

You’ll explore the society and culture of Europe between 1500 and 1789, a time when society was transforming rapidly while remaining rooted in medieval times. You'll also learn about the British Isles from 1789 to 1914, when the United Kingdom experienced rapid industrial and imperial expansion, political conflict, poverty, and uncertainty.

ModulesCredits
You'll study both of the following:
Early modern Europe: society and culture c.1500-1780 (A223)60
The British Isles and the modern world, 1789–1914 (A225)60

Stage 3 (120 credits)

At Stage 3, we offer modules on empires and opposition to them from the fifteenth century to recent times, as well as on conflict and change in twentieth-century Europe. Alternatively, you can do an independent research project on an aspect of Welsh history of your choice. You can also study one module in art history, classical studies, religious studies or Scottish history.

ModulesCredits
You'll choose one from:
Empires: power, resistance, legacies (A328)60
Europe 1914-1989: war, peace, modernity (A327)60
The making of Welsh history (A329)60
You'll also choose one from the list above or one from:
Art and its global histories (A344)60
The Roman empire (A340)60
Religion and global challenges: past and present (DA332) – planned for October 202560
Modern Scottish history 1707 to present (CDDR301)*60
Medieval and early modern Scotland (CDDR321)*60
*These modules are produced in collaboration with other universities (see our Collaborative scheme website for details).

If you'd like to complete your studies at a faster rate, you can choose to study at the equivalent of full-time intensity (120 credits per year over three years). With this option, you must start your qualification in October. You can study two 60-credit modules at the same time starting in October or stagger your studies by studying one 60-credit module in October and the other in February.

If your circumstances change, don't worry. You don’t have to stick to full-time study. You can adjust your study intensity at the start of each academic year to fit your evolving needs.

ModulesCredits
Stage 1 | Year 1
You'll study both of the following:
Discovering the arts and humanities (A111)60
Revolutions (A113)60
Stage 2 | Year 2
You'll study both of the following:
Early modern Europe: society and culture c.1500-1780 (A223)60
The British Isles and the modern world, 1789–1914 (A225)60
Stage 3 | Year 3
You'll choose one from:
Empires: power, resistance, legacies (A328)60
Europe 1914-1989: war, peace, modernity (A327)60
The making of Welsh history (A329)60
You’ll also choose one from the list above or one from:
Art and its global histories (A344)60
The Roman empire (A340)60
Religion and global challenges: past and present (DA332) – planned for October 2025 60
Modern Scottish history 1707 to present (CDDR301)* 60
Medieval and early modern Scotland (CDDR321)* 60
*These modules are produced in collaboration with other universities (see our Collaborative scheme website for details).

The below sets out what modules you’d complete each year if you choose to study at the equivalent of part-time (60 credits a year over six years).

ModulesCredits
Stage 1 | Year 1
You'll study the following:
Discovering the arts and humanities (A111)60
Stage 1 | Year 2
You'll study the following:
Revolutions (A113)60
Stage 2 | Year 3
You'll study the following:
Early modern Europe: society and culture c.1500-1780 (A223)60
Stage 2 | Year 4
You'll study the following:
The British Isles and the modern world, 1789–1914 (A225)60
Stage 3 | Year 5
You'll choose one from:
Empires: power, resistance, legacies (A328)60
Europe 1914-1989: war, peace, modernity (A327)60
The making of Welsh history (A329)60
Stage 3 | Year 6
You'll also choose one from the list above or one from:
Art and its global histories (A344)60
The Roman empire (A340)60
Religion and global challenges: past and present (DA332) – planned for October 202560
Modern Scottish history 1707 to present (CDDR301)*60
Medieval and early modern Scotland (CDDR321)*60
*These modules are produced in collaboration with other universities (see our Collaborative scheme website for details).

We regularly review our curriculum; therefore, the qualification described on this page – including its availability, its structure, and available modules – may change over time. If we make changes to this qualification, we’ll update this page as soon as possible. Once you’ve registered or are studying this qualification, where practicable, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes. If you’d like to know more about the circumstances in which the University might make changes to the curriculum, see our Academic Regulations or contact us. This description was last updated on 6 September 2024.

Accessibility

Our qualifications are as accessible as possible, and we have a comprehensive range of support services. Our BA (Honours) History uses a variety of study materials and includes the following elements:

  • Online study – most modules are online; some have a mix of printed and online material. Online learning resources could include websites, audio/video, and interactive activities
  • Pre-determined schedules – we’ll help you to develop your time-management skills
  • Feedback – continuous assessment includes feedback from your tutor and using this to improve your performance
  • Finding external/third-party material online
  • Specialist material, such as works of art and musical manuscripts
  • Online tutorials
  • Group-work

Every module has its own Accessibility Statement with more detailed accessibility information – you’ll find these on individual module descriptions. Visit our Disability support page to learn about our services.

Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment

This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:

  • Knowledge and understanding
  • Cognitive skills
  • Practical and professional skills
  • Key skills

The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.

Read the detailed learning outcomes here

Credit transfer

If you have already studied at university level, you may be able to count it towards your Open University qualification – which could save you time and money by reducing the number of modules you need to study. At the OU we call this credit transfer.

It’s not just university study that can be considered, you can also transfer study from a wide range of professional or vocational qualifications such as HNCs and HNDs.

You should apply for credit transfer before you register, at least 4 weeks before the registration closing date. We will need to know what you studied, where and when and you will need to provide evidence of your previous study.

For more details of when you will need to apply by and to download an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

Classification of your degree

On successfully completing this course, we’ll award you our BA (Honours) History.

The class of honours (first, upper-second, lower-second or third) will depend on your grades at Stages 2 and 3.

You’ll have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.

International recognition

If you intend to use your Open University qualifications to seek work or undertake further study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether your intended qualification will meet local requirements for your chosen career. Find out more about international recognition of Open University qualifications.

Regulations

As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website. 

Compare this course

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.

At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.

Even though there are no entry requirements, there are some skills that you'll need to succeed. If you're not quite ready for OU study we can guide you to resources that prepare you, many of which are free.

Answer a few quick questions to check whether you're ready for study success

Preparing for study with an Access module

Students who start their study with an Access module are more likely to be successful when they advance to Stage 1 of their qualification. They’re specially designed to give you a gentle introduction to OU study, boost confidence in your study skills, and help you gain a broad overview of your chosen subject area.

You’ll also benefit from:

  • feedback from your tutor through regular one-to-one phone tutorials
  • support from a dedicated team throughout your study
  • detailed written feedback on your work.
The Access module we’d recommend studying in preparation for this qualification is our:

Arts and languages Access module

What you will study

This multidisciplinary module is an ideal starting point if you have little or no previous knowledge of the arts, humanities and languages. It's perfect preparation for your study with The Open University as you'll develop both your subject knowledge and your study skills. From the perspective of its central theme, ‘popular protest’, it explores a range of subjects, including art history, English, English language studies, history, and popular music, all through its central theme of ‘popular protest’. The module also offers an opportunity to explore other subjects, such as modern languages, classical studies, religious studies and creative writing.

View full details of Arts and languages Access module

How much will it cost in England?

We believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to achieving your potential. That’s why we work hard to keep the cost of study as low as possible and have a wide range of flexible ways to pay to help spread the cost.

  • A qualification comprises a series of modules, each with an individual fee. Added together, they give you the total cost.
  • Fees are paid on a module-by-module basis – you won't have to pay for the whole of your qualification up front.
  • Most of our students study part time at a rate of 60 credits a year.
  • Our typical fee for 60 credits is £3,636*.
  • This means, at current prices, the typical total cost of your qualification would be £21,816*.
  • This qualification also includes one or more option modules with a lower-than-typical cost. If you choose to study one of these modules, the total cost of your qualification will be lower.

*The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2025. Fees typically increase annually. In England, fees are subject to the part-time fee limit, as set out in section C of the University's Fee Rules.

Additional costs

Study costs

There may be extra costs on top of the tuition fee, such as set books, a computer and internet access.

If your income is not more than £25,000 or you receive a qualifying benefit, you might be eligible for help with some of these costs after you start studying.


How will I study this course?

With our unique approach to distance learning, you can study from home, work or on the move.

You’ll have some assessment deadlines to meet, but otherwise, you’ll be free to study at the times that suit you, fitting your learning around work, family, and social life.

For each of your modules, you’ll use either just online resources or a mix of online and printed materials.

Each module you study will have a module website with

  • a week-by-week study planner, giving you a step-by-step guide through your studies
  • course materials such as reading, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities
  • module forums for discussions and collaborative activities with other students
  • details of each assignment and their due dates
  • a tutorial booking system, online tutorial rooms, and your tutor’s contact details
  • online versions of some printed module materials and resources.

If you have additional needs, we can also provide most module materials in alternative formats. Find out more about materials on our accessibility webpage.

See how our module websites work.

Tutor support

Student, Joe, talks about balancing working at the NHS and studying with the OU and how he has the best of both worlds.

You’ll have a tutor for each module, who will introduce themselves before the module begins.

Throughout the module, they will:

  • mark your assignments and give feedback to help you improve
  • guide you to learning resources
  • support you, whether with general study skills or help with a specific topic.

Tutorials

Tutorials usually take place online, and they’re always optional.

Online tutorials are live presentations with module tutors in dedicated online tutorial rooms and are sometimes recorded.

Assessment

Our assessments are all designed to reinforce your learning and help you show your understanding of the topics. The mix of assessment methods will vary between modules.

Computer-Marked Assignments

  • Usually, a series of online, multiple-choice questions.

Tutor-Marked Assignments

  • You’ll have a number of these throughout each module, each with a submission deadline.
  • They can be made up of essays, questions, experiments or something else to test your understanding of what you have learned.
  • Your tutor will mark and return them to you with detailed feedback.

End-of-Module Assessments

  • The final, marked piece of work on most modules.
  • Modules with an end-of-module assessment won’t usually have an exam.

Exams

  • Some modules end with an exam. You’ll be given time to revise and prepare.
  • You’ll be given your exam date at least 5 months in advance.
  • Most exams take place remotely, and you will complete them at home or at an alternative location.
  • If a module has an in-person exam (that you must take at one of our exam centres) or is invigilated online, we’ll make this clear in the module description.

Progressing to a point where I felt more comfortable writing my assignments, and having my scores reflecting that, made me quite happy because it showed the hard work was being rewarded.

Patrick ‘Ricky’ Skene, BSc (Hons) Sport, Fitness and Coaching

Other support and resources

Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to our subject-specific Student Support Teams.

They’ll help you with any general questions about your study and updates to your OU account.

To help with your studies, you’ll also have access to:

  • our online library, with high-quality online resources to support your study
  • other university libraries in the UK and Ireland
  • the online Help Centre, which has general information about OU study and support, along with study skills advice
  • free Microsoft Office 365 software
  • IT and computing support from our Computing Helpdesk.

Find out more about student support and being a part of the OU community.

Having a course that was really varied and studying in a style that worked for Nick, was key to him launching his own business and becoming an entrepreneur.

Skills for career development

Studying history will provide you with an adaptable set of skills that can lead in many directions and are greatly valued by employers. Broadly summarised, these are skills in research, critical thinking, analysis, and communication. In research, you’ll develop abilities in finding and assimilating relevant information; you’ll then analyse that information critically as you seek to answer historical questions; and finally you’ll communicate your findings to diverse audiences and in diverse forms, using written work, IT and other approaches. These are key skills in many fields and are highly sought after in the world beyond study – whether you’re already working, volunteering, or changing career.

Career relevance

Study of the arts and humanities requires an understanding of human activities in diverse cultural environments and historical contexts. The breadth of study and range of cultural texts and objects analysed, combined with clear thinking and communication, make the BA (Hons) History relevant to a wide range of careers, including:

  • education
  • museum work
  • public administration, local government, the civil service, art institutions, and social services
  • advertising, journalism, publishing, creative industries and public relations
  • legal work
  • business, banking and retail
  • human resources
  • charities and campaigning.

Other careers

Many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline, particularly in business, finance, management consultancy and the public sector. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.

Exploring your options

Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice. This includes online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.

In the meantime if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.

  • teacher
  • museum curator
  • heritage management
  • tourism officer
  • arts administration
  • civil servant
  • local government and NHS management
  • advertising account manager
  • marketing manager
  • journalist
  • publisher
  • public relations manager
  • media researcher
  • lawyer
  • charity campaigner
  • retail manager
  • business and human resources management
  • politician
  • librarian
  • information archivist
  • accountant.

You can study for this degree in as little as three years and have a maximum of 16 years to complete it. Our module-by-module approach allows you to adjust your study intensity each year based on your needs and commitments.

3-year degree

If you want to complete your qualification in three years at roughly the same rate as a student at a traditional university, you can choose to study at the equivalent of full-time intensity.

  • You'll study 120 credits a year.
  • You'll need to study around 32–36 hours per week.

Please note: If you wish to study a collaborative module (CDDR301 or CDDR321), it will take you a minimum of three years if you fund either of these modules by any means other than a student loan or four years if you fully fund this qualification with a student loan, as the student loan provider will only provide a loan for one higher education institution in the same academic year.

For a year-by-year breakdown of modules, explore our 3-year degree pathway in the Course details section.

6-year degree

Part-time study is roughly equivalent to studying at half the rate of a student on a full-time course at a traditional university.

  • You'll study 60 credits a year.
  • You'll need to study around 16–18 hours per week.

For a year-by-year breakdown of modules, explore our 6-year degree pathway in the Course details section.

Register for this course

Start dates
Credit transfer: apply by 05/12/2024

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