Cambridge is one of the most historic universities in the world and has access to a multitude of archival materials and original relics, making it the perfect place to take a History degree. History is also one of the biggest faculties at Cambridge, with over 200 places given over the last three years. Offers were given to an average of 35% of applicants, similar to other humanities subjects at the university. Cambridge has been widely recognised as one of the best places to study the subject and is run by a dynamic and active faculty of staff.
In first year, you take a total of five papers: two ‘outline’ papers (a wide overview of a period/area – this could be anywhere from Europe to Asia); a sources paper (evaluating a collection of primary sources on a particular historical issue), a Historical thinking paper, and a research skills paper.
In your second year, this number goes down to four. You will write two ‘topic’ papers (honing in on a particular aspect of historical knowledge – options are dependent on the Faculty staff available). You will also write your own research project, in addition to a historical thinking paper, which examines a particular historical lens that has dominated the field.
In final year, you have three mandatory modules – ‘Historical Argument and Practice’ (looking at methodology) and a ‘Special Subject’ (using primary sources to study a particular historical time or issue). The latter counts as two papers. You may take two taught options in addition to these from a set of ‘advanced’ historical papers or politics-based papers, or just one of the above in addition to a dissertation of 10,000 words on a topic of your own choice.
Some colleges may ask that you take A-Level History (or equivalent), but this is not a universal requirement. This course will help you develop your independent research skills through critiquing sources and communicating your arguments coherently. Graduate jobs might be in sectors such as teaching, archival work, further study, corporate, and law.