Course Overview
You’ll begin with a comprehensive study of the ideals and thought that shaped Western Civilisation, from the birth of democracy in Athens to the glitter of the Enlightenment and the beginning of modern times. Then, a range of modules will focus on historical events that brought new countries into being, world-changing conflicts and revolutionary schools of thought. You’ll learn research techniques, and the ability to critically analyse source materials to reconstruct a balanced and informed view of the past.
Entry requirements
To enter the degree programme directly, you should have 200 UCAS points from two subjects at GCE / VCE A’ Level, one of which should be a Grade B in History, or a related discipline, or an equivalent qualification.
If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS score of 6.
Students over 21 years of age (‘mature students’) may be admitted with fewer formal qualifications, particularly if they have completed an appropriate Access or Foundation course.
In addition, students without the traditional entry qualifications who choose to study via distance learning with ICS, may be offered an introductory course that consists of the first module of the degree and a specially prepared module providing the skills required to study in Higher Education. Students seeking entry through this route will be registered at the University on these modules only. On successful completion of these modules, students will have the opportunity to progress on to the full degree, at which stage they will be registered as full degree students.
Support and Benefits
- Tailor made ‘Higher Education Study Skills’ module for all students
- Step-by-step modules to guide your learning
- All course materials designed by experts in history
- Develops the interpersonal and self-management skills valued by employers
- Successful completion of this course demonstrates your motivation and commitment to learning
- Gain additional transferable skills in data collection, analysis, IT, communication and report writing
- Full support from a dedicated ICS tutor to mentor and motivate you throughout
- Support with Personal Development Planning programme, which is embedded with modules throughout the programme
Higher Education Study Skills Module
Studying for a degree by distance learning will be a new experience for the majority of students. Furthermore, how well you cope with this study and how you perform will be largely dependent on how well prepared you are. With this in mind ICS have developed a tailor made ‘Higher Education Study Skills’ module to provide you with the best possible start. All students will be required to study this alongside the first (double) module they undertake. Some students, perhaps those who have recently studied, may find this module serves, in the main, to refresh areas they have previously covered, whilst others may find all the content new and challenging. However, we are confident all students will benefit for studying this module and will enjoy better success in their studies as a result.
What is Personal Development Planning?
Personal Development Planning (PDP) is a new initiative, which aims to ensure that our our undergraduate students are given the opportunity to engage in planning to support effective personal, educational and career progression.
Why is PDP Important?
Studies indicate that too many undergraduate students currently complete their university studies not really knowing what they want to do next, or even what they have really gained from their degree to ‘transfer’ into the job-market. Many students also fail to take advantage of the full range of opportunities, initiatives and support on offer through their studies, to help them maximise their learning – and earning – potential.
What will I have to do?
As part of your academic programme you will be encouraged to engage in personal development planning to help you get the most out of your course, and also to plan ahead for what you want to do after your degree. Your mentor and the academic team will explain the precise form that PDP will take for your particular programme, but it is likely to include aspects such as: creating and updating a personal development plan; monitoring your progress against a range of subjects and generic/transferable skills; and developing/updating a CV.
Engagement in this process should help you feel more in control of your development over the course of your study programme, and also help you to become more focused about your future plans.
Distance Learning
You will have access to specially written study guides for each module and to eCampus, a virtual learning environment (VLE) that will support you throughout your studies. This will include access to your course materials, discussion forums, study timetables and a resource section. You will also be able to contact your tutors through eCampus, and upload assessments, send tutor queries, request a tutor phone call and see your results.
Career opportunities
While studying the past, you’ll be shaping your future with a variety of valuable key skills. You could continue on to postgraduate study, and perhaps an academic career. Alternatively, a degree in History could take you into a role in a museum or archive, the Civil Service, publishing, the media or teaching.
Assessment
Assessment will involve a mix of exams (both open and closed), essays, dissertations, internet search reports, document analyses, case studies, bibliographical exercises, book reviews and geography tests.