History and Politics at Cambridge is an exciting Honours degree which offers subjects from our highly-regarded History and Politics and International Relations courses, together with bespoke papers which will allow students to explore the space between the two disciplines. Students will develop skills in analysing the operation of power across institutions and societies around the world, and explore how different forms of evidence can be used to understand the past and the present. They will be able to choose from a wide range of topics in British, European, US and World history, the history of political thought, international relations, and comparative politics.

Cambridge is uniquely placed to teach History and Politics and International Relations together. Both Faculties are widely regarded as world-leading and are consistently top-ranked in research and teaching assessments. The History Faculty (http://www.hist.cam.ac.uk/) is one of the largest in the United Kingdom and has internationally recognised experts in all relevant fields of study.  The Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) (http://www.polis.cam.ac.uk) is a rapidly growing department with particular research strengths in political thought, comparative politics, and international relations, and close links with the other social sciences. 

Staff in the Faculty of History and the Department of Politics and International Studies have a wide range of shared interests in political history, the origins of contemporary politics and international relations, and the history of political ideas. This degree balances a strong grounding in the two component subjects with the opportunity to explore the ways in which historical and political understanding together illuminate the modern world. 

Course requirements

A Level History (or equivalent) is normally required, but if you are able to demonstrate that you have developed other, equivalent skills by taking other relevant subjects these will be considered. A Level Politics (or equivalent) is not usually expected, but is considered excellent preparation. 

Written Work

Please submit two recent essays marked by a teacher.

Admission Assessments

For further information, please view the entry requirements tab on: https://www.undergraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/history-politics-ba-hons 

Director of Studies - Dr Adam Woodhouse

College Fellows in History and Politics:

Baroness Smith of Newnham (Professor Julie Smith)

Dr Deborah Thom

For incoming 1st year students, the following reading list will be helpful: History & Politics Reading List

Last updated September 2024