MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) English and History (with a study abroad year)
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) English and History (with a Study Abroad Year) program at the University of Sussex offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to understanding the past and present through the lens of literature and history. Combining the study of English literature with a deep exploration of historical contexts, this program provides students with a well-rounded education that highlights the interplay between cultural narratives and historical events. The inclusion of a study abroad year further enriches the learning experience, allowing students to immerse themselves in a global context, broadening their perspectives and enhancing their academic journey. This program equips students with strong analytical, research, and writing skills, preparing them for a variety of career paths in academia, publishing, heritage, and other sectors.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) English and History program is designed to foster a deep understanding of both literary and historical traditions. In the first year, students explore foundational topics in English literature, from medieval to modern texts, alongside core modules in historical analysis that examine key historical events, movements, and periods. As students progress through the course, they deepen their knowledge in both fields, studying specific literary genres, historical periods, and themes. The curriculum is structured to offer a balance between theoretical study and practical application, encouraging students to develop critical thinking, research, and writing skills. The study abroad year offers an exciting opportunity for students to expand their academic and cultural understanding by studying at a partner university in a different country, further broadening their global perspective. The final year focuses on independent research, with students completing a dissertation that explores a topic of their choice, integrating both English and History disciplines.
Research Focus: Research at the University of Sussex in the fields of English and History is both interdisciplinary and globally informed. The university’s faculty members are engaged in a wide array of research areas, with strengths in British, European, and American literature and history, as well as postcolonial studies, gender and sexuality, and the history of ideas. The English department has a strong research focus on modern and contemporary literature, while the History department specializes in a variety of historical periods, including medieval, early modern, and contemporary history. Students are encouraged to engage with current research through seminars, workshops, and independent study, and they benefit from being part of a research-led teaching environment. The combination of English and History research helps students explore how historical events have shaped literary works and how literature can offer insights into the historical past.
Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex offers numerous opportunities for students to engage with the professional world, preparing them for a range of careers in history, literature, education, publishing, and beyond. The university's strong connections with industries such as media, publishing, and heritage allow students to gain practical experience through internships, placements, and project-based work. Students can also attend guest lectures, workshops, and networking events featuring industry professionals from both the literary and historical fields. The program encourages students to apply their academic learning in real-world settings, giving them the opportunity to build professional skills, networks, and portfolios. Additionally, the university’s global partnerships enhance career prospects by offering students the chance to develop international connections and experience while studying abroad.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) English and History (with a Study Abroad Year) program at the University of Sussex takes a global approach to education, encouraging students to consider the impact of literature and history on a worldwide scale. The study abroad year is a central feature of the program, enabling students to experience different cultures, academic systems, and historical contexts. Whether studying in Europe, North America, or beyond, students gain a broader understanding of how history and literature intersect across different regions and societies. The program’s global perspective is also reflected in its curriculum, which includes the study of international literature and global historical movements. Sussex’s diverse international community and wide-ranging academic partnerships provide students with the opportunity to engage in cross-cultural discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of global issues.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19050
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
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 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The BA (Hons) English and History (with a Study Abroad Year) program at the University of Sussex offers graduates a wealth of career opportunities in diverse fields such as education, publishing, media, heritage, research, and international relations. The unique combination of literary analysis and historical inquiry, paired with the invaluable experience of studying abroad, equips graduates with critical thinking, research, and cross-cultural communication skills that are highly sought after by employers.
Historian or Archivist: Graduates with an interest in history can pursue careers as professional historians or archivists, working in museums, archives, libraries, and cultural institutions. These roles involve researching, preserving, and curating historical documents, artifacts, and records, providing insight into the past. Sussex graduates are well-prepared for these roles due to their strong research and analytical skills.
Museum or Gallery Curator: A background in history, combined with an understanding of literature, can lead to roles as curators or cultural heritage professionals in museums, galleries, and heritage sites. Graduates may be involved in curating exhibitions, managing collections, and educating the public about historical events and cultural heritage through engaging exhibits and educational programs.
Publisher or Editorial Assistant: The program’s strong emphasis on English literature equips graduates with excellent writing, editing, and communication skills. Graduates can pursue careers in publishing, working as editorial assistants, production assistants, or book editors. They may help to review manuscripts, curate literary content, or manage the production process for books, journals, and digital publications.
Journalist or Writer: The skills developed in both English literature and history are highly transferable to journalism. Graduates may become reporters, editors, feature writers, or content creators, writing for newspapers, magazines, online publications, or broadcast media. Their ability to analyze historical and contemporary events, combined with excellent writing skills, makes them valuable assets in media and communications.
Teacher or Educator: A significant number of graduates from this program go on to pursue careers in teaching, either at secondary or higher education levels. The combination of English and history provides a strong foundation for teaching a wide range of subjects, including literature, history, and social studies. Graduates may also further their studies by pursuing teaching qualifications or postgraduate degrees to teach at university level.
International Relations or Diplomatic Service: The study abroad year provides an invaluable global perspective, preparing graduates for roles in international relations, diplomacy, or governmental agencies. With a solid understanding of history and culture, graduates are well-equipped to work in foreign affairs, NGOs, or international organizations, contributing to global policy, cultural exchange, or humanitarian initiatives.
Public Relations (PR) or Communications Specialist: Public relations roles require a combination of strong communication skills, historical insight, and cultural sensitivity. Graduates can work as PR officers, communications managers, or public affairs consultants, crafting narratives, managing media relations, and promoting organizations or individuals through written and digital content. The storytelling expertise honed in the program is ideal for crafting compelling narratives in PR.
Researcher or Policy Analyst: Graduates may find positions as researchers or policy analysts in think tanks, government agencies, or research institutions. Their ability to analyze historical events, understand social dynamics, and conduct independent research makes them ideal candidates for roles that require critical thinking and data analysis. This may involve research on historical trends, public policy, or social and political issues.
Heritage Consultant: With a strong background in history, graduates can work as heritage consultants, advising on the preservation and interpretation of historical sites, landmarks, and monuments. These roles may involve working with local authorities, conservation organizations, or tourism boards to ensure that heritage sites are protected and accessible for future generations.
Advertising or Copywriting: Graduates with strong writing and communication skills may pursue careers in advertising or copywriting. These roles involve creating engaging and persuasive content for brands, advertisements, and campaigns. A deep understanding of historical and literary themes can help graduates craft unique messages that resonate with diverse audiences, drawing from cultural and literary references.
Government or Civil Service: The analytical skills and ability to understand complex social and historical contexts gained from studying English and History are highly valued in government and civil service roles. Graduates may work in policy development, public administration, or local government, where they can influence policy and contribute to governance based on historical analysis and research.
Social and Community Work: Some graduates are drawn to careers in social work, community outreach, or advocacy. A background in history and literature provides a deep understanding of social issues, human rights, and cultural narratives, making graduates well-suited for roles in supporting and empowering communities, particularly in multicultural or historical contexts.
