| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
History with Foundation Year
Overview
The History with Foundation Year program at Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of historical events, processes, and cultural contexts. The program is structured to facilitate students' independent choice of focus and topics, with a dedicated team providing tailored feedback and support.
Why Study This Course
- Ranked 1st in the UK for Teaching Quality (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025)
- 2nd in the UK for Teaching (NSS 2023)
- Vibrant engagement with English Literature
- Dedicated team and student support
- Tailored feedback
Course Summary
The History with Foundation Year program explores a range of fascinating topics spanning various historical eras, in local, national, and global contexts. Students will investigate how people today engage with history and consider how the past can be brought alive.
Key Facts
- Award: BA (Hons)
- UCAS code: V10F
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of study: Full-time
- Start date: September 2025
- Awarding institution: Bishop Grosseteste University
- Institution code: B38
Course Structure
The program consists of a Foundation Year, followed by three years of undergraduate study.
Foundation Year
- Self as Learner
- Resourcing Learning
- Critical Engagement
- Critical Thinking
- The Digital Learner
- Effective Communication
- Reflective Learning
- Academic Writing
- British Libraries, Museums and Archives: A History of Collection
- Histories of Identity: Sexuality, Race, Class and Gender
- The Early Modern British Isles: From Reformation to Revolution
- At War with Itself: the United States from Civil Rights to Vietnam
- Democratic Dictators
- The First World War
- The Historian’s Craft: Doing History at University
- The merrie folk of Late Medieval England: from king to the poorest widow
Year 1
- Invented Histories: Understanding Popular Representations of the Past
- People and Places: Researching Local and Regional History
- Creative Destruction: The Atlantic World in the 17th and 18th centuries
- A Better World is Possible: British protest movements
- Work Placement
Year 2
- The Dark Arts: A History of Magic, Witchcraft and Folklore
- The Transformation of the West, 300-900 CE
- The City in Global History: The Rise of Urban Societies in the Modern Age
- The Long Weekend: Britain between the wars
- Blitzkrieg: Armoured Warfare during the Second World War
- Fighting Back: The History of (counter) insurgency
Year 3
- Special Subject
- ‘The Sun Never Set and the Blood Never Dried’: The British Empire in the 19th Century
- History Dissertation
- The Global Cold War
- Kill Your Masters: The French and Haitian Revolutions
- Crime and Punishment in Modern Britain, c. 1800 to the present
Entry Requirements
Application for this course is via UCAS, although there is no formal requirement for UCAS points to access the course (normally GCSE English or equivalent is desirable).
Careers and Further Study
Studying History at BGU enhances employability by focusing on highly desirable and transferable critical thinking and analytical skills, professional writing practices, and the art of constructing persuasive arguments. Possible future careers for History graduates include education, marketing, journalism, law, policing, public policy, information research, and management.
Assessment
In History, we believe in utilizing assessments that will accurately test your key skills, knowledge, and understanding. We select only those assessments that will enable you to learn, improve, and progress over the course of the degree program and which will prepare you for challenges beyond university.
Academic Staff
- Dr. W. Jack Rhoden
- Dr. Hazel C Kent
- Professor Andrew Jackson
- Dr. Tim Galsworthy
- Dr. Derwin Gregory
- Dr. Alan Malpass
- Dr. Darren Poole
What Our Students Say
"Studying Single Hons history at BGU has been the best journey and it was the best decision I made! Can't believe I'm on the final stretch and know I'm going to miss it tremendously" - Francesca, 3rd Year BA (Hons) History Student
Moments from Our Undergraduate Course
Studying History at BGU is more than just lectures and books - it’s about bringing the past to life! From hands-on workshops and field trips to lively discussions and research projects, our course offers a dynamic and engaging way to explore history.
Program Outline
BA (Hons) History with Foundation Year
Degree Overview:
- Objective: Equips students who don't have the necessary academic qualifications to study at BGU with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a History degree program.
- Duration: Four years, including a Foundation Year (Year 0).
- Structure: Year 0 provides a solid foundation for university study through 8 modules focusing on academic skills and knowledge relevant to history. The subsequent three years delve into diverse historical topics across various eras and contexts.
- Focus: Explores a range of historical subjects from pirates in the Early Modern Atlantic World to civil rights campaigns in the 1960s, investigating how people interacted with history in the past and showcasing its relevance in the present.
- Emphasis: Development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to engage with sources and historical data. Students are encouraged to understand history through placements and site visits to archives and museums.
Outline:
- Year 0: Eight modules designed to equip students with necessary academic skills and knowledge for successful progression in their chosen subject. Specific modules include:
- Self as Learner
- Resourcing Learning
- Critical Engagement
- Critical Thinking
- The Digital Learner
- Effective Communication
- Reflective Learning
- Academic Writing
- Years 1-3: A diverse range of modules covering various historical periods and themes, providing a broad understanding of history and allowing students to specialize in areas of interest. Examples include:
- British Libraries, Museums and Archives: A History of Collection, 1600-2000
- Histories of Identity: Sexuality, Race, Class and Gender
- The Early Modern British Isles: From Reformation to Revolution
- Democratic Dictators
- The First World War
- The merrie folk of Late Medieval England: from king to the poorest widow 1000-1485
- People and Places: Researching Local and Regional History
- Invented Histories: Understanding Popular Representations of the Past
- Creative Destruction: The Atlantic World in the 17th and 18th centuries
- A Better World is Possible: British protest movements 1800-2000
- Work Placement
- The Dark Arts: A History of Magic, Witchcraft and Folklore
- The Transformation of the West, 300-900 CE
- The City in Global History: The Rise of Urban Societies in the Modern Age
- The Long Weekend: Britain between the wars, 1918-1939
- Special Subject
- ‘The Sun Never Set and the Blood Never Dried’: The British Empire in the 19th Century
- History Dissertation
- The Global Cold War, 1945-1991
- Kill Your Masters: The French and Haitian Revolutions
- Crime and Punishment in Modern Britain, c. 1800 to the present
- Assessment: A combination of written essays, presentations (oral, digital, and practical), portfolio submissions, assessed debates, and one-to-one discussions. The program utilizes a variety of assessments to test students' critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills.
Teaching:
- Methods: Lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical workshops, coursework, and work placements.
- Faculty: Experienced and knowledgeable staff with expertise in their respective fields.
- Approaches:
- Small group seminars and workshops provide opportunities to discuss issues raised in lectures and foster independent study.
- Emphasis on student participation and interactivity through diverse teaching methods.
- Focus on developing key skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary for success in the program and beyond.
Careers:
- Possible career paths: Education in the schooling and heritage sectors, marketing, journalism and publishing, law and policing, public policy, information research and management, archivist, librarian, museum curator.
- Further study: PGCE or Master's degrees in History or related fields.
Other:
- Support: Personalized and academic support from staff and a friendly, supportive community atmosphere.
- Field trips and work placements: Educational visits and opportunities to gain practical experience beyond the classroom.
Bishop Grosseteste University: A Summary
Overview:
Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU) is a public university located in Lincoln, England. It is known for its high student satisfaction rates, ranking first in the UK for student satisfaction according to the Times Higher Education. BGU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, with a particular focus on teacher training and other education-related programs.
Services Offered:
BGU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
BGU boasts strong academic support, ranking first in the National Student Survey 2024 for this category.Student Advice & Wellbeing:
The university offers dedicated support services for student well-being, including counseling and guidance.Library:
BGU has a well-equipped library with extensive resources for students.IT Services:
Students have access to various IT resources and support.Accommodation:
BGU provides on-campus accommodation options for students.Careers:
The university offers career guidance and support to help students find employment after graduation.Alumni Network:
BGU has a strong alumni network that provides support and networking opportunities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
BGU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various clubs and societies, engage in sports activities, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Students' Union. The university is located in the historic city of Lincoln, offering a rich cultural experience and numerous attractions.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High Student Satisfaction:
BGU consistently ranks high in student satisfaction surveys, indicating a positive learning environment and supportive community.Strong Academic Support:
The university provides excellent academic support services to help students succeed in their studies.Focus on Teacher Training:
BGU is a leading provider of teacher training programs, offering various routes into teaching.Vibrant Campus Life:
BGU offers a lively campus experience with numerous opportunities for student engagement.Location in Lincoln:
The university is situated in a historic and charming city with plenty to offer students.Academic Programs:
BGU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Courses:
BGU offers a variety of undergraduate degrees in various fields, including education, business, humanities, and social sciences.Postgraduate Courses:
The university offers postgraduate programs, including Master's degrees and doctoral studies, with a strong focus on teacher training and education-related fields.Apprenticeships:
BGU offers degree apprenticeships in various fields, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning a degree.Other:
- Additional Information: You will have the opportunity to speak with a member of BGU Admissions staff during the application process to resolve any questions or queries you may have.
EU Students
Entry requirements for EU students are the same as for UK students.
International Students (outside of the EU)
- Formal Qualifications: You will need to demonstrate that you have the equivalent of a UK GCSE in English language at grade C or above.
- Additional Information: You may also need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency through a recognized English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL. The specific requirements will vary depending on your country of origin.
Important Note:
- Different degree subjects may have specific entry requirements to allow you to progress from the Foundation Year. You will need to have met these by the time you complete the first year of this four-year course.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- For Non-native English speakers: You will need to demonstrate that you have the equivalent of a UK GCSE in English language at grade C or above. You may also need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency through a recognized English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL. The specific requirements will vary depending on your country of origin.
