Course overview
History is concerned with how the world came to be the way it is, and why. To understand the present fully, we must look to the past. A history degree gives you skills to champion change in society, and ‘polishes the soul’, so the ancient Greeks and Romans tell us. Many career doors are opened with a history degree in sectors including education, the military (usually as officers), police services, NHS, government, the arts, management and politics. A few have become historians.
History at Teesside allows you to explore a broad range of historical themes and periods such as modern and contemporary European history, the ancient world, social and cultural history, early modern history and modern Irish history. Choose topics along a varied route that match or spark your interests. You develop an understanding of the nature of historical enquiry, including the relationships between sources, theory and interpretation. You acquire key transferable skills including distinctive critical thinking, verbal and written communication – all highly valued by employers.
Top reasons to study this course
Quality teaching: Teesside University was ranked 3rd for Teaching Quality for History in the Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026. (88 institutions ranked, [tees.ac.uksource](tees.ac.uksource))
Student satisfaction: Teesside University was ranked 4th for Student Satisfaction and 1st for Graduate Prospects – On Track for History in the Complete University Guide 2026. (90 institutions were ranked, [tees.ac.uksource](tees.ac.uksource))
Nationally recognised: Teesside University is ranked 10th for History (Guardian University Guide 2026, 81 institutions ranked, [tees.ac.uksource](tees.ac.uksource)).
Skills for the future: 100% of history students agreed that their course has developed the knowledge and skills they think they will need for their future (National Student Survey 2025, [tees.ac.uksource).](tees.ac.uksource).)
North East Film Archive: gain access to the unique on campus North East Film Archive, dating back 130 years, this fascinating collection of material provides an insight into memorable events of the decades, people’s lives and communities. Showcased in [In the Veins](https:www.youtube.comwatchvLyQxrchc8bc&t514s), a powerful short film produced in collaboration with the Yorkshire and North East Film Archive, this rich archive brings history to life capturing the enduring legacy of mining heritage in the region.
Employability
A variety of career paths will be open to you, including law, accountancy, social work, librarianship, journalism, public relations, teaching, retail management and local government work.
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