History and Politics
The History and Politics programme at Oxford University offers a distinctive opportunity to study two interrelated disciplines in a structured, intellectually engaging way. This joint honours degree enables students to contextualize modern political issues within their historical backgrounds while developing analytical and critical thinking skills in political science.
A key strength of the course is its flexibility, allowing students to explore topics ranging from medieval history to contemporary political systems. Teaching is delivered by Oxford’s leading historians and political theorists, providing interdisciplinary perspectives and in-depth guidance.
Students benefit from world-class resources, including the Bodleian Library, History Faculty Library, Weston Library’s rare manuscripts and archives, and the Social Sciences Library, offering exceptional support for research, coursework, and independent study.
Course Overview
| UCAS Code | LV21 |
|---|---|
| Entrance Requirements | AAA |
| Course Duration | 3 years (BA) |
Subject Requirements
- Required Subjects: Not applicable
- Recommended Subjects: History
- Helpful Subjects: Sociology, Politics, Government and Politics
Other Course Requirements
- Admissions Tests: None in 2025
- Written Work: One piece (History)
Admissions Statistics
| Interviewed | 38% |
|---|---|
| Successful | 12% |
| Intake | 44 |
| Successful for a different course | 3% |
| Applicant intake for a different course | 13% |
A Typical Week
The History and Politics programme at Oxford University provides students with a distinctive opportunity to study two interconnected disciplines side by side. This joint honours degree allows students to contextualize contemporary political issues within their historical framework while developing the analytical tools of political science. The programme’s flexibility is a key strength, enabling students to explore subjects ranging from medieval history to modern political systems.
Students benefit from access to leading historians and political theorists, receiving thematic and interdisciplinary teaching across both European and world history. Additionally, Oxford’s world-class resources, including the Bodleian Library, History Faculty Library, Weston Library’s rare manuscripts and archives, and the Social Sciences Library, offer exceptional support for research in both history and politics.
Course Structure
Year 1
In the first year, students complete four examination papers along with one short piece of assessed coursework. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in both history and politics:
History: Students choose either one of the seven periods in British Isles history or one of the four periods in European or World history.
Politics: Students take either Introduction to the Theory of Politics or Theories of the State.
Optional Subject: Students select one option from a range of choices, including:
Quantification in History
Approaches to History
Historiography: Tacitus to Weber
Any other history optional subject (excluding Theories of the State)
One of six designated foreign texts
The Practice of Politics
Quantitative Methods: Political Analysis – this is assessed coursework, not part of the formal exams.
Assessment: Students sit the First University Examinations, comprising four written papers, designed to evaluate both analytical skills and comprehension of historical and political concepts.
Years 2 and 3
During the second and third years, the History and Politics course comprises seven main components, designed to deepen understanding and develop advanced analytical skills:
British Isles History: Students study a chosen period in the history of the British Isles.
European or World History: Students explore one period in European or global history.
Core Politics Subjects: Students select two core politics subjects from the following:
Comparative Government
British Politics and Government since 1900
Theory of Politics
International Relations
Political Sociology
Study Combinations: Students choose one of the following pathways:
A special subject in History (two papers) plus one optional Politics subject (either a core paper not previously taken or a further subject).
A further subject in History plus two optional Politics subjects.
A further subject in History, one optional Politics subject, and one special subject in Politics.
Thesis: Students complete an independent research thesis in either History or Politics, demonstrating critical thinking, research skills, and scholarly writing.
Assessment: Students sit the Final University Examinations, which may include:
Six written papers plus one thesis (in History or Politics), or
Five written papers, one extended essay, and one thesis (in History or Politics).
Note: Course content and assessment formats may vary in certain circumstances. For the most up-to-date and detailed information, students should refer to the official History and Politics website.
Academic Requirements
Qualifications
Entry Requirements – History and Politics at Oxford University
A-levels: AAA
Advanced Highers: AA or AAB
International Baccalaureate (IB): 38 points overall (including core points), with 666 at Higher Level
Other Qualifications: Equivalent UK or international qualifications are accepted. Full details are available on the University’s guidance pages.
All grades are assessed in context, taking into account the circumstances in which they were achieved. For more information, refer to Oxford’s guidance on the use of contextual data for admissions.
Subject
Recommended: History at A-level, Advanced Higher, IB Higher Level, or an equivalent qualification.
Helpful but not required: Background in Sociology, Politics, or Government and Politics can enhance your preparation.
Science A-levels: If your science subject includes a practical component, passing the practical assessment is expected.
English Language: Applicants whose first language is not English may need to meet the University’s English language proficiency requirements.
Applying
All applicants are required to follow the standard application procedure detailed on the Applying to Oxford pages. The information below highlights course-specific requirements, ensuring candidates understand what is expected for a successful application to History and Politics.
Admissions Test
Applicants for the 2025 entry do not need to sit a written admissions test.
Written Work
Requirements:
Applicants must submit one essay focused on a historical topic, written as part of regular school or college work.
Do not submit source analyses or commentaries that require the assessor to consult additional materials.
The essay should be no longer than 2,000 words. Shortened extracts from larger essays or projects are acceptable if they stand alone and clearly demonstrate your ability to build a coherent argument.
Always include the essay question with your submission.
Guidance:
Select an essay that genuinely interested you and that you would feel confident discussing.
It is acceptable if your perspective has evolved since writing—the key is to show critical engagement and reflection.
Submit the essay with a signed certificate from your school or college confirming the circumstances under which it was produced.
Deadline:
10 November 2025
Fees
Full-time Home undergraduate students pay fees set at the government’s capped rate.
For the 2025/26 academic year, this cap is £9,535, which serves as a guide for students starting courses in 2026.
Final confirmation of course fees will be provided once the government releases updated information.
For guidance on potential yearly fee changes, refer to the University’s advice on likely increases to fees and charges.
Annual Course Fees
Living Costs
Estimated Expenses: For 2026 starters, living costs in Oxford are approximately £1,405–£2,105 per month.
Term Structure: The academic year comprises three eight-week terms, with students typically residing in Oxford for just over six months annually.
Budgeting Advice: It is recommended to plan for around nine months’ expenses to ensure you can cover essential costs during holidays and breaks.
Financial Support
Home Students
Tuition Fee Loan: Eligible Home students (including UK, Irish nationals, and others with UK citizens’ rights*) can access a UK government loan covering full course fees, meaning no upfront payment is required.
Oxford Bursaries (2026): Oxford offers one of the most generous bursary schemes in the UK. Students from households with an annual income of around £50,000 or less can receive financial support. Additional bursaries are available for families with incomes of £32,500 or less.
Living Cost Support: The UK government provides extra funding to help Home students cover living expenses, depending on residency status.
*From 1 August 2021, EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals may also qualify for UK student finance if they hold UK citizens’ rights (pre-settled or settled status, or are Irish citizens under the Common Travel Area). The amount of support depends on residency status.
Islands Students
Students from the Channel Islands and Isle of Man have access to financial support schemes that differ from those available to Home students in the UK. For detailed guidance on eligibility, application procedures, and available funding, please consult your local funding authority:
States of Jersey
States of Guernsey
Isle of Man
Overseas Students
International students looking to study History and Politics at Oxford University can explore a variety of funding options. A comprehensive list of scholarships, bursaries, and grants is available in the Other Scholarships section of the Oxford University [Bursaries and Scholarships page]. This guidance helps students identify opportunities to support tuition fees and living costs while studying in the UK.
Important Notes
Previous Study: Students who have already completed an undergraduate degree are generally classified as Equivalent or Lower Qualification (ELQ) students. Such students are not eligible for UK government funding or Oxford bursaries.
Additional Costs: Beyond tuition fees and typical living expenses, there are no compulsory costs associated with the History and Politics course.
For more details on funding options, scholarships, and bursaries, students can consult Oxford University’s Fees, Funding and Scholarship Search tool.
College Life
Colleges form the cornerstone of Oxford’s reputation as one of the world’s leading universities. Every student belongs to:
Their college
Their academic department(s)
The wider University
This structure combines the prestige of a world-class institution with the close-knit support of a smaller community.
What Colleges Offer:
Staffed Porters’ Lodge (reception and security)
Dining hall for meals
Lending library, often open 24/7 during term
Comfortable student accommodation
Tutors’ teaching rooms
Chapel and/or music facilities
Laundry services
Green spaces for relaxation
Common rooms (JCRs) for socialising and studying
Accommodation:
First-Year Guarantee: All first-year undergraduates are guaranteed college accommodation, either on the main site or in a nearby annexe. Living alongside fellow freshers helps with settling into university life.
Beyond Year One: Many colleges offer accommodation for at least a second year, with some guaranteeing housing for the full degree. Students can continue living in college or move to private accommodation if preferred.
Student Support:
Academic Guidance: College tutors provide support for your studies and broader academic development.
Pastoral Support: Welfare officers, peer mentors, and student-led support schemes, such as college “families,” offer guidance and practical assistance throughout your time at Oxford.
FAQ
What is the History and Politics BA at Oxford University?
The History and Politics BA is a joint honours degree at Oxford that allows students to study two complementary disciplines. The course combines historical analysis with political science to provide a coherent, intellectually stimulating programme.
What are the entrance requirements for the course?
Applicants are typically required to have AAA at A-level. While no specific subjects are mandatory, History is recommended. Helpful subjects include Sociology, Politics, and Government and Politics.
How long is the course?
The BA in History and Politics at Oxford University is a 3-year programme.
Are there any admissions tests or written work?
For 2025 entry, no admissions tests are required. Applicants are expected to submit one piece of written work in History.
What teaching methods are used?
Students participate in lectures, small tutorials, and faculty classes. Tutorials are typically 2–4 students and provide personalised feedback. Independent study and essay writing are also central to the programme.
What are the admissions statistics?
On average (2022–24), 38% of applicants are interviewed, 12% are successful, and the annual intake is around 44 students.
What are the career prospects after studying History and Politics?
Graduates gain skills in critical analysis, research, and communication, opening careers in government, public policy, academia, media, and international organisations.