Why is this course for me?
History and Politics is a classic combination of subjects for students looking to investigate the workings of government and society in contemporary and historical perspectives. You will examine why society has changed and seek to understand the issues facing societies across the globe today. Through both subjects, the course will teach you the essential skills of writing, critical thinking, evaluating evidence, and assessing data. This programme offers an excellent interdisciplinary preparation by combining historical research with political science and political theory.
Career & Graduate Study Opportunities
Graduates of History and Politics have key skills in research, analysis and communication that are highly valued by employers. History & Politics graduates work across: International Organizations, Broadcasting and Journalism, Business, Civil Service, Law, NGOs, Publishing, Public Relations, Politics, Research, Teaching, Marketing, Policymaking, Tourism, Heritage.
Graduates are eligible to apply for UCD MA and MSc programmes in either History or Politics and International Relations.
What Will I Study
You will study Irish, European, and world history, engaging with political, cultural, social, and economic aspects of history, and investigating historical change, from the impact of ideas to the role of class, gender, and race. You will also study International Relations and a variety of political issues including political conflict, development, human rights, and political economy, always with a focus on the role of government, public policy, and citizens.
First Year
The core first year module is an interdisciplinary module fusing historical and political science approaches to a chosen case study. You will take foundational courses in both history and politics.
Second Year
All students will take the Special Collections module, which gives you the opportunity to work with archival materials in UCD. Building on basic research skills developed in first year, the module provides structured support to help you develop more advanced skills in the field for archival research. You will also deepen your knowledge by taking core and elective modules in History and Politics. In History, these modules will allow you to allow you to focus on particular countries, themes, and periods. In Politics you will study modules ranging from international relations to human rights.
Third Year
You will choose from a range of options that will enable you to broaden your horizons and enrich your academic experience:
- Apply for a competitive internship in an area that interests you and/or relates to your area of study.
- Study abroad for a trimester/year to develop your language skills and immerse yourself in a new culture.
- Deepen your knowledge by studying a dedicated range of History and Politics
- modules.
Fourth Year
Students take option modules in both subjects in fourth year. The culmination of the programme is a capstone project, where you will work closely with a supervisor to complete a dissertation in history, politics, or an interdisciplinary mix of both.
International Study Opportunities
Students may apply for study abroad opportunities in universities across Europe and worldwide. Both subjects have a network of exchange agreements with partner Universities including: France, Norway, Belgium, Sweden, Germany, United States, Italy.