History and Economics
The History and Economics oxford course is designed to combine the best of both disciplines into a single, intellectually rich programme. By studying these subjects together, you gain insights into society and the economy that neither subject could provide alone. While the course integrates both areas, students still have the flexibility to lean more towards either history or economics, depending on their interests, while keeping the advantages of an interdisciplinary approach.
This programme allows you to explore economic theory, quantitative methods, and historical analysis side by side. You will develop the economist’s ability to use models, statistics, and logical reasoning, alongside the historian’s skills in argumentation, evidence evaluation, and narrative understanding. Together, these methods help you view real-world issues from multiple perspectives.
Oxford offers outstanding resources for both subjects. You will benefit from access to the Bodleian Library, the History Faculty Library, the Social Sciences Library, and numerous college libraries. This ensures you have world-class support for your studies.
Course Overview
- UCAS code: LV11
- Entrance requirements: AAA
- Course duration: 3 years (BA)
Subject Requirements
- Required subjects: Not applicable
- Recommended subjects: History, Maths
- Helpful subjects: Not applicable
Other Course Requirements
- Admissions tests: TSA (Section 1)
- Written Work: One piece (History)
Admissions Statistics*
- Interviewed: 41%
- Successful: 11%
- Intake: 15
- Successful for a different course: 3%
- Applicant intake for a different course: 4
A Typical Week History and Economics
Your timetable will vary depending on the stage of the course, but generally includes:
- 5 lectures per week
- Regular tutorials (usually 2–4 students with a tutor) to discuss written work
- Independent research and reading
- One essay per week
In the second and third years, you will also work on a thesis in Economic History, giving you the opportunity to carry out independent research on a topic of your choice.
Class sizes are typically small (around 12 students, sometimes up to 20 for popular subjects). Most teaching is delivered by experienced tutors and world-leading researchers, though some classes may also be taught by university of oxford postgraduate students.
Course Structure
Year 1
You will study four core courses:
- Introductory Economics (covering Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Statistical Methods)
- European and World History (choice of four options)
- Approaches to History, Historiography, or Foreign Texts
- Industrialization in Britain and France 1750–1870 (or another History optional subject)
Assessment: Four written examinations at the end of the year.
Years 2 and 3
Your studies will deepen through core and optional courses:
- Core in Economics and Economic History
- History of the World Economy
- At least one of: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, or Quantitative Economics
- Two additional Economics papers from a list of options
- Core in History
- A period of British History or European/World History
- Compulsory Thesis
- An independent research project, usually in Economic History
- Optional Papers (choice of history and/or economics subjects, depending on your preference)
Assessment:
- Seven written exams
- One compulsory thesis
Academic Requirements
- A-levels: AAA
- Advanced Highers: AA / AAB
- IB: 38 points (including core), with 666 at Higher Level
- Other qualifications: Equivalent international qualifications are accepted.
Grades are considered in the context of your background and circumstances.
Subject Recommendations:
- Highly recommended: History and Mathematics to A-level or equivalent.
- If English is not your first language, you will also need to meet University of Oxford English language requirements.
Applying
Admissions Test
Applicants must take the Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) Section 1.
- Test Dates: 21–24 & 27 October 2025
- Registration: Details to be confirmed
There is no separate admissions test for History in 2025.
Written Work
- Candidates must submit one argument-driven essay in History (max 2,000 words).
- The essay should be normal school or college work and must show the ability to construct an argument.
- Deadline: 10 November 2025
No Economics essay is required.
What Tutors Look For
Tutors seek:
- Intellectual curiosity
- Flexibility in tackling new ideas
- Enthusiasm for History and Economics
- Clear evidence of interest in economics (no formal prior study required)
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed and may be asked to:
- Discuss their written work and personal statement
- Read and analyse a short passage
- Solve a problem or explain their reasoning
Careers
Graduates in History and Economics Oxford are highly employable across a wide range of careers, such as:
- Management consulting
- Industry and finance
- Law
- Civil and Diplomatic Service
- Bank of England and public policy roles
- Teaching and research
Recent graduates include a management consultant, a charity officer, and an economist.
One graduate, now Managing Director at Thomson Reuters, said:
“Running a diverse region such as Asia Pacific requires lateral thinking across cultures and clear communication—skills I developed through Oxford University tutorial system.”
Fees and Living Costs
Annual Tuition Fees (2026 entry):
- Home (UK): £9,535
- Overseas: £43,600
Fees usually increase annually. Check Oxford university course fees guidance for the latest details.
Living Costs (estimate for 2026):
- £1,405–£2,105 per month
- Academic year usually requires ~6 months in Oxford, though budgeting over 9 months is advised.
Financial Support
- Home students: Eligible for government tuition fee loans and living cost support.
- Oxford offers one of the most generous bursary packages in the UK for students from lower-income households.
- Overseas students: May apply for scholarships via Oxford’s funding pages.
No compulsory additional costs apply to this course beyond tuition and living expenses.
Oxford College life
At Oxford college, every student belongs to both:
- A college (your community and accommodation base)
- A department/faculty (your academic base)
Oxford Colleges provide accommodation (guaranteed in first year), meals, libraries, welfare support, and social spaces. Most offer accommodation beyond first year too.
Colleges are supportive communities where staff and peers help you academically and personally. You’ll quickly find yourself part of a welcoming and vibrant student life.
Connect with Us
Oxford runs many outreach programmes to support applicants from all backgrounds.
- University-wide outreach events: Explore the calendar for upcoming activities.
- Digital Resource Hub: Access online learning and subject-specific resources.
- Oxplore: Oxford’s free learning platform for ages 11–18.
- UNIQ Programme: Free academic residentials for UK state school students, giving insight into Oxford teaching, student life, and application support.
Prospective applicants can also sign up for step-by-step guidance with their Oxford application.