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Mode of Attendance

Full-time / Part-time

At a glance

3 good reasons to study Contemporary History and Politics at Salford
- Well-established Parliamentary Placement Scheme at Westminster
- Work placements and international exchange programmes available
- Learn from staff whose research is internationally recognised

This course offers you:

A grounding in 20th century history and politics;
A range of module options at all levels where you can direct your knowledge and learning to areas of your own interest;
The choice of two excellent placement opportunities;
The option to spend a semester or two abroad at one of our many partner institutions;
A film and documentary series;
Access to seminars and conferences of topical interest, with guest speakers from around the world;
Guidance with career options and a strong student support infrastructure.

What will I learn?

The degree programme provides students with a strong foundation of knowledge in modern history and contemporary politics. In the first year, you study international history, from the 1890s to the present day, and focus upon major works by key historians. You also study British politics, examining Britain's domestic policies, institutions and structures, as well as its role in global politics and its relations with the EU. To further your knowledge of modern politics, you study political theory, with an introduction to key concepts such as class, power, and the role of the state. You then choose from a wide range of module options in your second and third years of study.

In the second year, you will build on your knowledge gained in level 1, and examples of optional modules are: Gender and Society; US Foreign Policy Since 1945; Twentieth Century European Fascism, and many more. All students take a Researching module in semester 2.

In level 3 you will complete a dissertation on a topic of your choice and four from a range of specialised modules covering a wide variety of topics at a more advanced level. Module options can include All the way with LBJ: Corruption Contemporary Politics; Ethics in International Relations; Central and East and European Politics; West European Legislatures; Britain and European Resistance; Coalition Warfare; Democratisation in Britain and Elsewhere since 1800; E-democracy: Politics and New Media; European Union Simulation; History of Military Trauma in the Twentieth Century; Representing the Holocaust; Reputation Building and Myth-Making: Military Memoirs; Shoestring Empire: British Grand Strategy 1815-1914.

How will I learn?

You will learn by lectures and seminars. You can also get support and help with essay writing skills, researching skills and exam techniques.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed by a combination of coursework and exams. Besides testing your knowledge of politics, coursework (and seminars) are designed to give you an opportunity to acquire a range of the analytical and communication skills that employers typically look for when making hiring decisions.

Can I study overseas?

Yes, in Australia, Canada, and the USA. Our European Erasmus exchange links are our strength, and our students can study in almost any European country with financial support. You can study for one or two semesters and the teaching is in English in most of our destinations. All EU exchanges are supported by an Erasmus grant and if you go abroad for two semesters, you pay no tuition fees for that year. In addition, the Salford International Mobility Bursary applies to all exchanges. The Bursary offers up to £1,000 to eligible students who complete a year studying or working abroad. Even if your placement abroad lasts only for a semester, you could still receive up to £500 from the University.

Can I get work experience?

Suitable students can take part in our unique Parliamentary Placement Scheme, spending six months in the Westminster office of an MP. There is also the Manchester Television Placement Scheme, where you spend two days a week during the second semester undertaking research for a television programme on current politics.

Where can I get a job?

You will have the opportunity to enter a wide range of professions, especially journalism, research, teaching and public and private sector administration. Personal tutors can offer advice, encouragement and references.

Open days

Open Days are held regularly on Wednesday afternoons. All UCAS applicants are invited to attend.

Further information

Profile

Rebecca McLindon
BA (Hons) Contemporary History and Politics

'During my time at Salford, I worked for Charles Kennedy on the University's Parliamentary Placement Scheme. The duties varied enormously, from researching to dealing with the press. After graduating, I returned to work for Charles Kennedy and was involved in the 2001 General Election campaign. I would recommend this scheme to anyone who hopes to pursue a career in politics.'

Last updated 10 November 2009

University of Salford - A Greater Manchester University

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