Modern and Contemporary History with Year Abroad BA (Hons)

The past two centuries have seen huge advances in society and technology. But they have also witnessed devastating world wars, the Black Death and the rise of Soviet communism. Learning modern and contemporary history at Queen Mary, you’ll explore how such historical events have shaped the modern world we live in.

British history. The war on terror. American democracy. These are just a few of the subjects you’ll uncover, taught by our research-active academic experts. Build specialist knowledge, satisfy your curiosity and pursue your own interests, picking optional modules spanning events of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

Invest in your future.
Based in a city steeped in history, you’ll have access to some of the richest facilities for historical research. Outstanding museums, libraries, archives and resources right on your doorstep, ready to aid your studies. You can also join our vibrant history society where we welcome talks by historians and visit sites of historical interest. And put your knowledge into action writing for Queen Mary’s history journal.

Analysis, reasoning and communication are just a few transferable skills you’ll develop – all highly valued in today’s employment market. Apply your new knowledge in a heritage or museum role. Bring change in policy making or social research. Or step into publishing. You’ll be ready to make an impact in whichever direction you choose.

As a history graduate, you can apply your degree knowledge directly to a career in museums, education or the arts and heritage sector. Our graduates are also highly employable in other sectors and commonly enter roles in publishing, journalism, policy, consumer and social research, management consulting and the Civil Service – making use of skills gained from the programme, including verbal and written communication, research, critical analysis and attention to detail.

Recent graduates from the School of History have been hired by:

• Bank of England
• Croud Marketing
• Deutsche Bank
• Gillamor Stephens
• J.P. Morgan
• LexisNexis.

Career support

The School of History has a dedicated Careers Consultant who can offer specialist advice. We hold an annual ‘History Futures’ event where you can meet former students and discover how their studies have helped them progress in their career.

The Queen Mary careers team can also offer:

• advice on choosing a career path
• support with finding work experience, internships and graduate jobs
• feedback on CVs, cover letters and application forms
• interview coaching.

Learn more about career support and development at Queen Mary.