Does 'Politics' improve or devalue a history degree

Hello,

I am looking to study a history based degree at university once 2019 rolls around. I have been looking at a few universities (Lancaster and Nottingham to name a couple) and noticed that they offer 'History AND Politics' degrees programmes.

My incline would say that adding politics to a history degree improves one's prospects and makes the course more relevant and contemporary, but I have heard some conflicting opinions that politics degrees aren't particularly useful. So, in your opinion, would a history and politics degree be less worthwhile than a straightforward history degree?

-Joseph.

Hello,

I am looking to study a history based degree at university once 2019 rolls around. I have been looking at a few universities (Lancaster and Nottingham to name a couple) and noticed that they offer 'History AND Politics' degrees programmes.

My incline would say that adding politics to a history degree improves one's prospects and makes the course more relevant and contemporary, but I have heard some conflicting opinions that politics degrees aren't particularly useful. So, in your opinion, would a history and politics degree be less worthwhile than a straightforward history degree?

-Joseph.

Hey Joseph,

I studied straight politics for my undergraduate degree, but I took a few history modules throughout. I found that my knowledge of certain topics in history complimented my politics modules fantastically - the history modules often provided a really useful context for contemporary political study, and this definitely helped me write better essays. Having an inter-disciplinary degree title can show employers that you have picked up a diverse skill set from your degree.

I can't speak for History & Politics programs at other universities, but I do know that UEA's History & Politics course offers a great chance to specialise in your historical and political interests. Have a quick nose at it here

Is there a specific period of political history you're interested in?

Fred - UEA PG Rep

Hi Fred,

Thanks for leading me to that particular course within the University of East Anglia.

I wouldn't say there is a particular period of political history that I am interested in - not having had the opportunity to formally study politics in school or sixth form - so, out of interest, what periods did you find most interesting and choose to specialise in?

-Joseph.