History and Sociology BA (Hons)

History at Sheffield has all the academic rigour you’d expect from a Russell Group university – the department is ranked third in the UK for research in this discipline (Research Excellence Framework 2014) and you will be involved in research projects right from the start. But what makes our history degrees really stand out is our passion for bringing history to life. Our history department, and the Faculty of Arts and Humanities in general, are innovators in the field of public engagement, particularly the use of digital technology to give people access to historical records, texts and research. Our students are closely involved with this work, which is great preparation for a career as an archivist, broadcaster, writer or museum curator. You will spend roughly half your time in the Department of Sociological Studies, where you will get an excellent grounding in global issues – such as crime, migration, religion and poverty – that enhance your understanding of humanity and historical change.When you’re not in seminars, you’ll be able to work on projects such as our New Histories blog and WikiAmerica. There are opportunities to take part in volunteering projects with a history focus. You could go on work placement with a heritage or culture organisation. This emphasis on communicating ideas is why you will find Sheffield history graduates working for organisations such as the Imperial War Museum, the National Archives, BBC Online and the Guardian.