Modern and Contemporary History

Modern and contemporary history covers the period from roughly the eighteenth century to the present, examining the events, structures and ideas that have shaped the world we live in. It encompasses the age of revolution and the rise of nationalism, the industrial transformation of European societies, the era of empire and decolonisation, two world wars and a cold war, the emergence of the United States as a global power, and the complex politics of the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. Understanding this history is essential for making sense of contemporary politics, international relations, and the structures of power and inequality that characterise the present.

At the University of Leicester, the three-year full-time programme explores how modern history, contemporary politics and international relations have shaped one another, asking how past events continue to determine current realities. You will develop strong skills in historical analysis and research, engaging with primary sources, evaluating historical arguments and constructing your own well-evidenced interpretations of the past. The degree includes a sandwich year, a year abroad and a work placement, giving you the opportunity to develop professional experience and international perspectives.

Leicester's history department has a strong research profile, and the contemporary focus of the degree reflects a commitment to understanding history as a living discipline rather than an antiquarian one.

Graduates of modern and contemporary history degrees work in education, journalism, the civil service, international organisations, politics, the heritage sector, publishing, law, the third sector and research. The analytical and writing skills the degree develops are broadly valued. Postgraduate study in history, international relations, politics or a related field is a natural continuation.