Studying Modern and Contemporary History is exciting and rewarding. It will help to satisfy your curiosity about our recent past and allow you to acquire an in-depth understanding of the history of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. As well as an in-depth knowledge, Modern and Contemporary History students also develop essential skills of analysis, argument and communication - all highly valued in today’s competitive employment market.

Our internationally renowned academics are developing the very latest thinking on historical problems; this cutting edge knowledge informs the curriculum and will enhance your learning experience. By studying at one of the largest and most influential departments in the country, you will have access to a range of course options.  This degree allows you to study a range of issues in modern and contemporary history and through our courses you will learn how to analyse these issues in different ways - from the biographical, looking at Martin Luther King or Nelson Mandela; the national, by studying, for instance, modern British or American history; and the thematic, with options such as the history of global terrorism, and modern political thought. You will also study leadership and government and the broader social and cultural contexts, to form a holistic view of modern history.

You will receive individual attention and learn in small teaching groups, whilst having access to some of the richest facilities for historical research anywhere in the world; in addition to the College’s substantial library collections, there are the National Archives, British Library and other libraries of the University of London.

A Modern and Contemporary History degree gained at Royal Holloway provides valuable training that allows entry to many professions, and the focus on modern history is particularly useful for careers such as government or civil service, where a knowledge of contemporary history and public policy is highly valued. The degree is well-regarded by employers because of the skills and qualities you will develop. It demonstrates that you enjoy being challenged, are able to understand complex issues and have an understanding of other values and cultures, which equips you to operate successfully in a fast-changing and increasingly globalised and multi-cultural environment.

On graduation, you will be informed and independent - armed with key skills, including problem-solving, organisation and planning, as well as research and analysis.