Early Modern History (1485-1799)

  • Course Type School Leaver
  • Subject Area Humanities and Social Sciences
  • Qualification A Level 🧩
  • Study Mode: Full Time
  • Course Level Level 3
  • Course Length 2 years

This course can be combined with others and goes particularly well with Politics, Classics, English Literature, Sociology and Law. Note you  cannot take both Early and Later Modern History together.

Overview

This course is for you if you are a keen historian and avid reader. It goes slightly further back in time to satisfy your thirst for knowledge. If you feel that you need a  wider historical experience after having studied a lot of twentieth century history in school, then this could be the course that you are looking for.

Who is this course for?

Choose this course if you enjoy finding out about how and why historical events happen and what the consequences of these events are. Lessons are suited to those who enjoy debating and developing arguments about historical issues.

What you will study

You will take an AS Level in the first year of this course.

On this course you will:

  • Develop skills of research and show evidence of written arguments through independent research
  • Attend guest lectures delivered by university professors from places such as the University of Exeter and University of Southampton
  • Read widely and learn through research and discussion, as well as in lectures

What topics will I study?

You will study Britain 1625-1701: Conflict, Revolution and Settlement and the French Revolution, alongside developing research, discussion and independent learning skills. Students also complete an AS Level in the first year. In the second year you will complete a piece of coursework and study Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors.

  • Britain 1625-1701: Conflict Revolution and Settlement
  • France in Revolution, 1774-99
  • Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors, 1485-1603
  • Side taking in the English Civil War (coursework)
Assessment

Written examination and by submission of a piece of coursework.

Entry Requirements

You will need eight GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including English Language and Maths).

Progression and careers

This course is excellent preparation for a History degree. It is also ideal if you would like to pursue a career in the civil service, journalism, law and teaching, as well as specific history careers such as museum work and archaeology.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Early Modern History different from the History I studied at school?

If you’ve mainly studied twentieth-century topics at GCSE, this course gives you the opportunity to explore an earlier period of history and develop a broader understanding of historical change across time.

What are lessons like?

History lessons involve debate, discussion, research and analysis. Students are encouraged to read widely, investigate historical interpretations and develop well-supported arguments.

What opportunities are there beyond the classroom?

Students benefit from guest lectures delivered by academics from universities such as the University of Exeter and University of Southampton, helping to deepen their understanding of the subject and prepare for higher education.

Where can History A Level take me?

History is excellent preparation for university study and careers including law, journalism, teaching, the civil service, archaeology and museum work. The course develops valuable skills in research, analysis, communication and critical thinking.

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  • How to apply

    Ready to start your journey?

    Applying is straightforward:

    1) Complete our online application form

    2) Submit your GCSE results or predicted grades

    3) Attend an interview

    4) Receive your offer and enrol

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