BIRKBECK COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON · UNITED KINGDOM
History
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS V100
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Ranked in top 8 UK universities for History research (2021 REF)Research Excellence
- Located in historic Bloomsbury, LondonLocation
- Access to world-class resources (British Museum, British Library, Institute of Historical Research)Resources
- Thriving student societies and research centres with events and seminarsCommunity
- Classes primarily in the eveningFlexible Study
Birkbeck's BA History program offers a broad exploration of global history, spanning thousands of years and taught by leading academic researchers. This degree is suitable for both students with specific career goals and lifelong learners keen to deepen their understanding of historical contexts. You will gain valuable historical knowledge, develop strong analytical skills, and enhance your presentation abilities, which are essential for careers in fields such as teaching, journalism, and the arts or media. The program also offers flexibility to tailor your studies to your interests, including options to minor in Environmental Studies.
Careers
A History degree from Birkbeck equips you with valuable transferable skills, including research, analytical thinking, and effective communication, alongside a comprehensive understanding of historical contexts. These skills are highly sought after by employers across various sectors.
- Teaching
- Journalism
- Arts
- Media
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the BA History program?
- For part-time study, a minimum of two A-levels or equivalent is generally required. Birkbeck also assesses qualifications, knowledge, and work experience, and may waive formal entry requirements based on academic potential. Specific A-level requirements include 112 UCAS points (e.g., BBC) for the main course or 48 UCAS points for the Foundation Year route.
- How can I prove my English language proficiency?
- We accept various English language tests including IELTS Academic (6.5 overall with 6.0 in each sub-test) and TOEFL iBT (Total Score: 4.5 from Jan 2026). An AS or A-Level in English Language or Literature with a Grade C is also accepted, as is a GCSE in English Language or Literature with a Grade C.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Tuition fees vary depending on your fee status and study mode. Specific amounts for this program are not provided directly on the course page but are detailed on the university's finance pages. Flexible payment plans are available.
- How long does the BA History program take to complete?
- The program duration is not explicitly stated but is a bachelor's degree, typically taking three years of full-time study.
- What are the career prospects after studying History at Birkbeck?
- A History degree equips you with valuable transferable skills like research and analytical thinking, sought after in fields such as teaching, journalism, arts, and media.
- How do I apply for the BA History program?
- For full-time study, apply via UCAS using the relevant code. For part-time options, apply directly through the Birkbeck website. Ensure you check the specific application opening dates for future intake years.
Entry requirements
A-levels112 UCAS points (e.g., BBC)
Foundation Year Route48 UCAS points
IELTS Academic6.5 overall with 6.0 in each sub-test
Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English176 overall with 169 in each sub-test
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English176 overall with 169 in each sub-test
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)62 overall with 60 in each sub-test
TOEFL iBTNew grading system from Jan 2026: Total Score: 4.5 (reading: 4, listening 4, speaking 4, writing 4.5)
LanguageCert Academic70 overall with minimum 65 in sub-tests
AS or A-Level in English Language or LiteratureGrade C
GCSE in English Language or LiteratureGrade C
International Baccalaureate English A: Literature OR Literature and Language OR Literature and PerformanceGrade 5 (Standard Level) or Grade 4 (Higher Level)
International Baccalaureate English BGrade 6 (Standard Level) or Grade 5 (Higher Level)
Birkbeck welcomes applicants without traditional entry qualifications and may waive formal requirements based on academic potential, knowledge, and work experience. An interview may be part of the application process. For part-time courses, standard requirements are a minimum of two A-levels or equivalent. If you are a national of a majority English-speaking country or have completed a degree (comparable to RQF 6, awarded within the last three years) in one of the approved English-speaking countries, you may not need to provide further English language evidence.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information on international tuition fees is available on the university's finance pages. Birkbeck offers flexible payment plans.
Tuition (home)Information on home tuition fees is available on the university's finance pages. Birkbeck offers flexible payment plans.
LivingBirkbeck can help calculate estimated living costs for students. Please refer to the university's international finance pages for guidance.
Tuition fees vary depending on your fee status (Home or International) and whether you are studying full-time or part-time. Specific amounts for this program are not provided directly on the course page but are detailed on the university's finance pages. Flexible payment plans are available.
How to apply
1. Find your courseBrowse the available programs and ensure the BA History is the right fit for your academic and career goals.
2. Check Entry RequirementsReview the academic and English language requirements for the BA History program. Birkbeck assesses qualifications, knowledge, and work experience, and may waive formal entry requirements based on academic potential.
3. Prepare your ApplicationGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency. You may also need to write a personal statement. For undergraduate courses, applications are typically made through UCAS.
4. Submit your ApplicationFor full-time BA (Hons) History, apply via UCAS using the relevant UCAS code (V100 for standard, V101 for Foundation Year route). For part-time options, apply directly via the Birkbeck website. Be aware of the specific application opening dates for future intake years.
5. Interview (if required)Depending on your chosen program and individual circumstances, you may be invited for an interview as part of the application process.
6. Receive and Accept OfferIf successful, you will receive an offer from Birkbeck. Follow the instructions to accept your place. You can find guidance on accepting your offer on the Birkbeck website.
Accreditation
University of London
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the BA History program?
+
For part-time study, a minimum of two A-levels or equivalent is generally required. Birkbeck also assesses qualifications, knowledge, and work experience, and may waive formal entry requirements based on academic potential. Specific A-level requirements include 112 UCAS points (e.g., BBC) for the main course or 48 UCAS points for the Foundation Year route.
How can I prove my English language proficiency?
+
We accept various English language tests including IELTS Academic (6.5 overall with 6.0 in each sub-test) and TOEFL iBT (Total Score: 4.5 from Jan 2026). An AS or A-Level in English Language or Literature with a Grade C is also accepted, as is a GCSE in English Language or Literature with a Grade C.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Tuition fees vary depending on your fee status and study mode. Specific amounts for this program are not provided directly on the course page but are detailed on the university's finance pages. Flexible payment plans are available.
How long does the BA History program take to complete?
+
The program duration is not explicitly stated but is a bachelor's degree, typically taking three years of full-time study.
What are the career prospects after studying History at Birkbeck?
+
A History degree equips you with valuable transferable skills like research and analytical thinking, sought after in fields such as teaching, journalism, arts, and media.
How do I apply for the BA History program?
+
For full-time study, apply via UCAS using the relevant code. For part-time options, apply directly through the Birkbeck website. Ensure you check the specific application opening dates for future intake years.