History & Politics

History and Politics is an exciting joint degree which offers subjects from both the History and the Human, Social, and Political Sciences (HSPS) courses, together with bespoke topics that allow you to explore the space between the two disciplines. You will analyse the operation of power and politics across histories, institutions, and societies around the world, as well as understanding the nature of evidence, methodology, and approaches in both History and Politics. It is possible to choose topics in British, European, American, African, and Asian history and politics. More information about the course can be found on the University website.

History & Politics at Murray Edwards

We admit 1-2 History and Politics students each year, giving a small but strong community of students. You will study alongside students from both History and Human, Social, and Political Sciences (HSPS), which are two of the larger subjects in the College, so there are ample opportunities to share and develop your ideas with like-minded and supportive colleagues. You will also have access to our fantastic library which boasts particularly well-stocked History and Politics sections.

Typical offer

A Level: A*AA

IB: 42 (776)

Required subjects

No specific subjects are required.

Admissions assessment

No admissions assessment is required.

Written work

Applicants are required to submit two pieces of written work.

What the students say:

Orla Howard

I adore studying History and Politics, as the style of teaching is perfectly designed to indulge your intellectual curiosity, whilst also pushing you to your full academic potential! I have enjoyed all of my papers, but the history of political thought as a discipline has stood out to me in particular. The teaching of ancient as well as modern political thought is tailored in such a way as to lead you to not simply understand a text on the surface level, but also to appreciate the inseparability of ideas, and the form of their articulation, from historical context.

Outside of my studies, I have fully embraced college life. I spent a year on the JCR, the dramatic highs and lows of which gave me a taste of what it’s like to do politics, as opposed to studying it… I love playing for the college netball and football teams, not only to make friends across college, but also to fight for the glory of Murray Edwards! I’ve also co-founded the college politics society, and through it organise socials and discussions of topics that mightn’t crop up on our course reading lists. I occasionally venture beyond college, as well, whether that is to volunteer with the Museum of Classical Archaeology, attend free Irish language classes provided by the university, or simply find a live music venue in town to boogie in with my friends! Most of all, I love cycling around, which may sound small but is probably my favourite thing about being here.