BA (Honours) History

The BA (Honours) History program at Sheffield Hallam University (SHU), situated in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK, offers students a rich and comprehensive exploration of human history. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of historical events, movements, and societies from various perspectives, enabling them to develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills. Through a diverse range of modules covering different time periods, regions, and themes, students gain insight into the complexities of the past and its relevance to contemporary society.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Honours) History program at Sheffield Hallam University is structured to cover a broad range of historical topics while allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests. Students explore key periods in history, such as ancient civilizations, medieval Europe, modern revolutions, and contemporary global issues. They also have the opportunity to delve into specialized areas of historical inquiry, including social history, political history, cultural history, economic history, and gender history. Through seminars, lectures, and independent research projects, students engage with primary sources, historical texts, and scholarly debates to deepen their understanding of historical processes and interpretations.

Research Focus: Sheffield Hallam University is committed to fostering research excellence in history and promoting student involvement in historical inquiry. Faculty members and students engage in research projects exploring diverse historical topics and methodologies, from archival research and oral history to digital humanities and public history. Students have the opportunity to participate in research activities, collaborate with faculty members on research projects, and pursue their own research interests through independent study or undergraduate research projects. Through research-based learning, students develop critical thinking skills, research literacy, and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of historical interpretation.

Industry Engagement: SHU maintains strong connections with heritage organizations, museums, archives, and cultural institutions to provide students with valuable industry insights and experiences in the field of history. Through guest lectures, field trips, and internships, students have the opportunity to engage with professionals working in historical research, preservation, education, and public engagement. Industry-relevant assignments, case studies, and practical projects further enhance students' understanding of career opportunities in the heritage sector and related fields. Additionally, SHU's partnerships with local and national heritage organizations provide students with networking opportunities and potential employment prospects upon graduation.

Global Perspective: As a globally-minded institution, Sheffield Hallam University offers students a global perspective on history, emphasizing the interconnectedness of historical processes and events across different regions and cultures. The BA (Honours) program explores international and comparative history, encouraging students to examine historical phenomena from multiple perspectives and contexts. Students have the opportunity to study global issues such as imperialism, colonialism, migration, and globalization, and to engage with diverse historical narratives and interpretations. Through exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences, students develop a broader understanding of the global human experience and prepare for careers in an increasingly interconnected and multicultural world.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Sheffield Hallam University are typically required to have a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their high school or equivalent qualifications.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90, with at least 20 in Listening, 20 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 20 in Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 60 with no individual score below 51.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105 is required.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Sheffield Hallam University offers a range of scholarships to international students to support their academic journey and recognize their achievements. These scholarships are designed to provide financial assistance and enhance the overall student experience.

Transform Together Scholarships: These scholarships are available for undergraduate and postgraduate students and cover a significant proportion of the tuition fees. The scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, and applicants are required to demonstrate their commitment to making a positive impact in their home country after completing their studies.

Chevening Scholarships: Sheffield Hallam University is a Chevening partner, offering scholarships to exceptional students from Chevening-eligible countries. Chevening scholarships are fully funded and cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other study-related costs. Recipients of Chevening scholarships become part of the influential global network of Chevening Alumni.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Sheffield Hallam University offers scholarships specifically designed for students from certain countries. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, financial need, or other specific criteria.  

Sports Scholarships: Sheffield Hallam University recognizes the achievements of talented student-athletes by offering sports scholarships. These scholarships support athletes in balancing their academic and sporting commitments. Recipients of sports scholarships receive financial assistance, access to training facilities, coaching support, and other sports-related benefits.

Partnership Scholarships: The university has established partnerships with various organizations and institutions, leading to the availability of partnership scholarships. These scholarships may be offered to students from partner institutions or through collaborations with industry partners. They provide financial support and unique opportunities for academic and professional development.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes may vary from year to year.

Graduates of the BA (Honours) History program at Sheffield Hallam University (SHU), located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK, possess a diverse skill set that prepares them for a wide range of rewarding career opportunities. With their analytical thinking, research skills, and deep understanding of historical contexts, SHU graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in various sectors, including education, heritage, public service, research, and media.

Historian: One of the primary career paths for graduates of the BA (Honours) History program is becoming a historian. Historians research, analyze, and interpret historical events, documents, and artifacts to contribute to our understanding of the past. They may work in academic settings, museums, archives, or government agencies, conducting original research, writing scholarly articles or books, and presenting their findings to audiences through publications, lectures, or exhibitions. Historians play a crucial role in preserving and disseminating knowledge about the past and its relevance to contemporary issues and debates.

Educator: Graduates may pursue careers in education as history teachers or educators. History teachers educate students at primary or secondary schools, colleges, or universities, teaching them about historical events, themes, and methodologies. They develop lesson plans, deliver lectures, facilitate discussions, and assess student learning. History educators inspire students to think critically, engage with diverse perspectives, and develop a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the past. They may also organize extracurricular activities such as historical reenactments, field trips, or academic competitions to enhance students' learning experiences.

Heritage Professional: Graduates may work in the heritage sector as museum curators, archivists, or heritage managers. Heritage professionals are responsible for preserving, interpreting, and promoting cultural heritage assets such as artifacts, monuments, documents, and sites. They curate museum exhibitions, organize archival collections, and develop educational programs to engage visitors with history and heritage. Heritage professionals also play a role in heritage conservation, policy development, and community outreach, contributing to the preservation and celebration of cultural identity and heritage.

Public Service Administrator: Graduates may pursue careers in public service as administrators or policymakers. Public service administrators work in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or international institutions, focusing on areas such as cultural heritage preservation, historic preservation, or community development. They develop and implement policies, programs, and initiatives to promote historical awareness, protect heritage resources, and enhance community well-being. Public service administrators may also advocate for funding, support public engagement efforts, and collaborate with stakeholders to address societal challenges and promote social cohesion through historical understanding.

Researcher/Analyst: Graduates may work as researchers or analysts in various fields, including academia, think tanks, market research firms, or media organizations. Researchers conduct original research, analyze data, and generate insights on historical trends, cultural phenomena, or social issues. They may specialize in specific areas of history, such as political history, social history, economic history, or cultural history. Researchers contribute to the development of knowledge, inform public discourse, and provide evidence-based recommendations to policymakers, businesses, or media outlets.