This degree in history and sociology explores modern British, European and world history through the perspective of contentious issues in society, such as gender, ethnicity and social justice.
In this history and sociology degree, you will study contemporary and historical social theory, policy and practice in a vibrant, socially dynamic setting. Explore over five hundred years of social change with our creative and inspiring teachers through innovative modules which cover race, gender, violence, mobility and the family.
You'll be based on the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site, drawing on the local community resources, and museums of Greenwich, London and beyond. You'll develop IT and communication skills for a wide range of future careers and have the opportunity to undertake a placement in the public, creative or cultural sectors.
How you will learn
The following data is based on the compulsory modules for this programme.*
* Compiled from modules taught on 2023-2024 courses.
Teaching
In a typical week learning takes place through a combination of:
Overall123You can view more information about how each module is taught within our 'What you will study' section.
Seminars and workshops enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups. You will also be able to meet your personal tutor. Timetabled learning may fall between 9am and 9pm depending on your courses and tutorials.
Class sizes
The typical student intake for single honours History is around 20 students per year.
Core modules involve students on both single and combined honours History courses (3545 students on average). Optional modules usually have smaller class sizes of around 20-30 students. This can vary if modules are available for more than one degree.
Lecture and workshop sessions are usually attended by all those registered on the module, while seminars usually involve smaller groups to enable discussion. This can vary for modules which are listed in more than one degree course.
Independent learning
Outside of timetabled teaching sessions, you are also expected to dedicate time to independent study. Each module involves further reading, research and reflection, as well as time spent preparing for classwork, assessed coursework and examinations. This is around 8-10 hours per module per week, some of which may take place outside of teaching terms.
You can use Stockwell Street library and online resources to support further reading and research.
In addition, during the week you can also:
- Attend additional support classes in some modules
- Attend guest lectures from subject, business and industry experts
- Take part in employability and enterprise workshops
- Join student societies.
Overall workload
Your overall workload will consist of contact hours (lectures, seminars, etc.), independent learning, assessments, and field trips.
If you are studying full-time, you should expect the workload to be similar to a full-time job (approx. 40 hours per week). For part-time students, this will reduce in proportion with the number of courses you are studying.
Each module you study towards this degree is worth 15 or 30 credits. These represent around 150 or 300 study hours respectively. If you receive 50 contact hours for a 30-credit module, you should expect to commit 250 hours to independent study to complete it successfully.
Assessment
Students are assessed through a combination of assessment methods depending on the modules chosen.
Overall123You can view how each module is assessed within our 'What you will study' section.
Each course has formal assessments which count towards your grade. Some courses may also include 'practice' assignments, which help you monitor progress and do not count towards your final grade.
Feedback summary
We aim to give feedback on assignments within 15 working days.
Dates and timetables
The academic year runs from September to June.
Full teaching timetables are not usually available until term has started. For any queries, please call 020 8331 9000.

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