Study history abroad

History is the study of events, people, attitudes and beliefs throughout time. As a history student, you’ll be tasked with analyzing the legacies of these episodes and individuals in today’s world.

In most countries across the globe, our modern lives are very different from those of our ancestors. You’ll research various historical periods and topics, formulate questions, and offer answers as to why contemporary society looks the way it does.

One of the best ways to study history is to experience a country’s culture, sites and cities first-hand; that’s why studying abroad is such a great idea. By immersing yourself in the history of another country, you’ll gain a more comprehensive and authentic understanding of the subject.

You can study history at associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels of study. At undergraduate level, you can often choose to study history alongside another related subject as part of a joint-honours course.

History is taught across the world so there are plenty of opportunities to specialize in particular areas. However, programs will usually be focused around the history of the country you’re studying in. It’s important to bear this in mind if you’re interested in the history of a specific country.

If you choose to study in the US, you’ll probably select a major in history. The American higher education model outlines that you must first complete two years of general education before specializing in history for the final two years of your program.

Although the exact content and structure of your program will depend on your university, most history courses are delivered through lectures, seminars and tutorials. You will probably be assessed through a combination of essays, exams and presentations. Most history programs will cover the following topics:

• Historical approaches and concepts
• Why history matters
• The Middle Ages
• Making of the modern world 1500-1800
• Historical warfare
• Political history

As a history graduate, you will have gained a number of transferable skills that are well-respected by employers. Your ability to research, offer analysis and engage with critical thought will open many doors for you in the world of work, including the following roles:

• Teacher
• Civil servant
• Researcher
• Journalist
• Curator
• Archivist
• Academic librarian

It’s a good idea to consider improving your employability alongside studying. Most universities will have a career service that can point you in the direction of internship and work-experience opportunities that will strengthen your CV.