Overview:
The Oxford History course offers a unique educational experience that delves into both broad regional contexts and specialised topics. The curriculum integrates the study of extensive periods and larger societies. This also includes an in-depth analysis of smaller social groups, shorter eras, and specific themes. The course excels in emphasising comprehending the intricate connections between political, cultural, social, and economic structures in historical societies.
This programme fosters intellectual growth through lively debates on matters of interpretation and meticulous examination of source materials. Incorporating insights from various disciplines consistently generates fresh inquiries about the past. Moreover, Oxford’s reputation is built on the course’s expansive chronological coverage and the impressive array of options available. Furthermore, students can explore British and European history from the twilight years of the Roman Empire up to contemporary times.
Geographical diversity is also a hallmark, with opportunities to study North American, Latin American, Asian, and African history. The curriculum also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, and the faculty offers strong support for intellectual and cultural history pursuits.
The Oxford History Faculty also boasts cutting-edge research, and students benefit from the exceptional historical library resources available at institutions like the Bodleian Library, the History Faculty Library, the Bodleian Art, Archaeology and Ancient World Library, and the Weston Library’s special collections.
| UCAS Code | V100 |
| Minimum Entrance Requirements | A-levels – AAA Advanced Highers – AA/AAB IB – 38 (including core points) with 666 at HL |
| Admission Test for Historyat Oxford | HAT (History Admissions Test) Test date: 20 October 2023 Registration deadline: 29 September 2023 |
| Subject Requirements for History at Oxford | History is highly recommended. |
| Extras things admission tutors look for | Written work: One piece An essay on a historical topic, written as part of their normal school or college work. Deadline: 10 November 2023 |
| Duration | 3 years (BA) |
| Admissions Statistics | Interviewed: 71% Successful: 25% |
| What is History at Oxford? | History at Oxford is a distinctive course that combines the study of wide-ranging historical periods and societies with specialised investigations into smaller groups, themes, and timeframes. It also promotes an understanding of diverse political, cultural, social, and economic structures in past societies and their interrelationships. Furthermore, the curriculum encourages rigorous analysis of source materials, fosters debate, and benefits from cross-disciplinary influences. Students also gain the opportunity to explore British, European, North American, Latin American, Asian, and African history, while adopting interdisciplinary approaches and accessing exceptional historical library resources. |
| Oxford Colleges that offer History | Balliol College, Brasenose College, Christ Church, Corpus Christi College, Exeter College, Harris Manchester College, Hertford College, Jesus College, Keble College, Lady Margaret Hall, Lincoln College, Magdalen College, Mansfield College, Merton College, New College, Oriel College, Pembroke College, The Queen’s College, Regent’s Park College, St Anne’s College, St Catherine’s College, St Edmund Hall, St Hilda’s College, St Hugh’s College, St John’s College, St Peter’s College, Somerville College, Trinity College, University College, Wadham College, Worcester College |
| Structure of the History Course at Oxford | Year 1 Three courses on history & one Optional subject (choice of around 20). There are also four timed, written papers. Year 2 & 3 Six courses including Special Subject (paper & an extended essay) – There are also four written papers; one portfolio of submitted essays; one extended essay; one thesis; an additional thesis may be offered. |
| Common Careers after History at Oxford | Graduates of History at Oxford secure opportunities in Law Investment Banking and Consultancies Advertising Accountancy Civil Service Publishing Journalism and Media Global Charity Work MuseumsLibrarianship and Archive Work Teaching |
