UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE · UNITED KINGDOM
History and Politics BA (Tripos)
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS VL12
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 135+Academics
- One of the largestHistory student libraries (Seeley Library)
- Unrivalled book collectionUniversity Library
- PersonalisedCollege supervisions
- Breadth and depthCurriculum structure
This joint degree offers a unique opportunity to study History and Politics together, drawing on the expertise of both the Faculty of History and the Department of Politics and International Studies. The program balances a solid foundation in each subject with an exploration of how historical and political understanding can illuminate contemporary global issues. You will benefit from the high quality of teaching, engaging with leading academics through a combination of university lectures, seminars, and personalized college supervisions. These supervisions, often one-on-one or in very small groups, provide invaluable individual feedback and a space to discuss complex ideas. The curriculum is structured to offer breadth in the initial years and depth in specialized topics later on, allowing you to develop a comprehensive understanding of historical and political themes.
Curriculum
The BA in History and Politics is a three-year program (Tripos). Each year, you will take four papers. Teaching combines university-wide lectures and classes with intimate college supervisions, where you will discuss your work, typically an essay, with a senior academic. Assessment is primarily through end-of-year written exams, with some coursework options and the possibility of replacing a paper with a dissertation in your final year.
- Year 1 (Part IA)
- History Outline paper
- The Modern State and its Alternatives
- International Conflict, Order, and Justice
- Evidence and Argument
- Year 2 (Part IB)
- International Organisation or Comparative Politics
- History of Political Thought
- History Topic paper
- Research Project in History and Politics (long essay)
- Year 3 (Part II)
- Three papers from a wide range of Politics and International Relations, History Special Subjects, and Specified Subjects
- Theory and Practice in History and Politics (compulsory core paper)
- Dissertation (optional, replaces one paper)
Careers
A degree in History and Politics provides a strong foundation for a wide range of careers. The analytical, research, and communication skills developed are highly valued by employers in various sectors.
- Journalism
- Politics and Government
- International Organisations
- Law
- Education
- Museums and Heritage
- Research
- Civil Service
- Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the History and Politics BA?
- For A-level students, the typical offer is A*AA, with A-level History normally required. IB Diploma candidates usually need 40-42 points, including 776 at Higher Level.
- How long is the History and Politics BA programme?
- The BA in History and Politics (Tripos) is a three-year undergraduate programme.
- What is the application deadline for this programme?
- The application deadline is typically in mid-October for entry in the following academic year. Interviews are usually held in December, with decisions released in January.
- How do I apply for the History and Politics BA at Cambridge?
- Applications are submitted through UCAS, and you must also complete a Cambridge Online Preliminary Application (COPA) directly to the University. You will need to choose a Cambridge college and may be invited for an interview if shortlisted.
- What career paths can I pursue with a History and Politics degree?
- A degree in History and Politics prepares students for careers in journalism, politics and government, international organizations, law, education, and the civil service, among others. The programme develops valuable analytical, research, and communication skills.
Entry requirements
A-levelTypical offer: A*AA. A-level History is normally required.
IB Diploma40-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level.
Some colleges may require a pre-interview written assessment. Please refer to the Cambridge prospectus for detailed course entry information.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information not available.
Tuition (home)Information not available.
LivingInformation not available.
Tuition fees and living costs for international students are not specified on the program page. Please consult the University of Cambridge's official fee pages for the most up-to-date information.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements for the course. Note any specific subject requirements, such as A-level History.
2. Prepare for AssessmentsSome colleges may require a pre-interview written assessment. Research these requirements and prepare accordingly.
3. Choose a CollegeYou will need to choose a Cambridge college as part of your application. Research colleges and their atmospheres to find a good fit.
4. Submit UCAS ApplicationComplete and submit your UCAS application by the deadline. This includes your personal details, academic qualifications, and a personal statement.
5. Complete Cambridge Online Preliminary Application (COPA)This form, submitted directly to the University, provides additional information and allows you to select your chosen college.
6. Attend Interview (if shortlisted)Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, which may be conducted in person or online. These interviews assess your academic potential and suitability for the course.
7. Receive OfferIf successful, you will receive an offer from your chosen college. This offer will be conditional on achieving specific grades in your final examinations.
Accreditation
N/A
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the History and Politics BA?
+
For A-level students, the typical offer is A*AA, with A-level History normally required. IB Diploma candidates usually need 40-42 points, including 776 at Higher Level.
How long is the History and Politics BA programme?
+
The BA in History and Politics (Tripos) is a three-year undergraduate programme.
What is the application deadline for this programme?
+
The application deadline is typically in mid-October for entry in the following academic year. Interviews are usually held in December, with decisions released in January.
How do I apply for the History and Politics BA at Cambridge?
+
Applications are submitted through UCAS, and you must also complete a Cambridge Online Preliminary Application (COPA) directly to the University. You will need to choose a Cambridge college and may be invited for an interview if shortlisted.
What career paths can I pursue with a History and Politics degree?
+
A degree in History and Politics prepares students for careers in journalism, politics and government, international organizations, law, education, and the civil service, among others. The programme develops valuable analytical, research, and communication skills.