BA (Hons) History and American Studies

On this degree you will study many different historical periods and approach the history of the USA from many different angles. This makes it a great choice if you have varied interests and prefer not to be tied down to a single academic discipline.

By studying American literature, cinema, popular culture and music alongside its history you will build a comprehensive understanding of the USA as a cultural construct and a world power. You will explore America’s place within the world throughout history and its impact on global culture and politics today.

Alongside your American history modules, you will have the opportunity to study others spanning many different historical periods and locations, from Ancient Rome to Mao’s China. In your final year you will also contribute to some of the ongoing research taking place within the department, taking advantage of the new developments being explored by our academic team.

Through our workplace learning modules you will build employable skills and take advantage of some of the great opportunities which come from studying in a city with such a rich history. Our connections include York Museums Trust, York Explore and Yorkshire Film Archive. Through these partnerships you can explore archived treasures, create historical exhibitions and build professional networks.

You can also choose to study abroad in your second year, experiencing America for yourself You will gain valuable experience of living in another country, developing your independence and initiative.

If you do not yet meet the minimum requirements for entry straight onto this degree course, or feel you are not quite ready for the transition to Higher Education, this is a great option for you. Passing a foundation year guarantees you a place on this degree course the following academic year.

Qualifications

• 104 UCAS Tariff points
• 3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language

International Students

If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.

Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.

If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.

Mature Learners Entry Scheme

If you have been out of education for 3 years or more and have a grade C GCSE in English Language or equivalent, you are eligible for our entry scheme for mature learners. It's a scheme that recognises non-traditional entry qualifications and experience for entry onto this course. Information on how to apply can be found on our dedicated page.

Your future with a degree in History and American Studies

This broad, interdisciplinary degree opens up a wide variety of career options. This course teaches you to solve complex problems through independent critical thinking, use varied sources of information to form conclusions, and present your arguments both verbally and in writing. These are valuable skills in diverse professional settings.

This degree could be the first step toward your career in:

• Historical research
• Journalism
• Heritage and Tourism
• Historic building conservation
• Law
• Archives and curation