History or politics: which should I study?
History may suit you better if you enjoy analysing evidence, change over time, and different interpretations of the past. Politics may suit you better if you are interested in institutions, power, public policy, and current affairs. Both can develop research, writing, argument, and critical-thinking skills, so compare the modules, teaching, assessment, and optional subjects on the courses you are considering.
Key points
- History can focus on primary sources, historical context, and debates about the past.
- Politics can include political ideas, institutions, policy, government, and international relations.
- Consider which subjects and methods you enjoy, and whether you prefer historical depth or more direct analysis of political systems and current issues.
- Both subjects can support varied further-study and career directions, but outcomes depend on your choices and experience beyond the degree.
Things to check
- Course content and assessment can differ substantially between universities and countries, so check official course information before deciding.
- The boundary between the subjects may be flexible: some courses combine history and politics or offer modules in the other discipline.