Studying History at LSE is quite different to studying it elsewhere. The department focuses mainly on modern international history, so the programmes are highly relevant and applicable to the world today. When I was applying to study history, I couldn’t help but question whether I was wasting my time studying areas that I perceived as less important to the present. Discovering the LSE’s BA History programme erased these doubts. The programme offered the chance to study what I saw as the most relevant parts of history in a cutting-edge and topical way.
The courses tend to begin from the early modern period, specifically the 1500s, while most focus on the 19th and 20th centuries. Indeed, all of the courses that I am doing focus on the 20th century. My favourite course is a breadth study from 1914 to the present day. Not many universities have history courses that include events of the 21st century. The programme here is specialist in its periods, but each course offers a comprehensive overview. The courses are very intellectually stimulating as they allow you to learn about other disciplines in the context of the past, such as politics, international relations and economics.
In your first year, you’ll take a compulsory course that encourages you to think about History as a discipline, rather than focusing on a specific period. I found this really helpful, as it allows you to better understand your own approach as a historian. It’s something quite unique to LSE. This part of the course gives you a fresh perspective on both your historical studies and the world around you.
On top of that, all first-year undergraduates at LSE take LSE100 – an interdisciplinary module that’s quite special compared to what other universities offer. It exposes you to different viewpoints from classmates across a range of courses, which really shapes how you understand and engage with discussions. Study Amara’s blog to see how it enriched their study experience.
I really like the Department of History at LSE because it’s smaller than most others here, which gives it a more close-knit and supportive feel. Even so, the department organises plenty of social events to help students and staff stay connected beyond the classroom. Since starting here, I’ve been to two gatherings – one at the beginning and one at the end of term – that brought the whole department together. There was also an opportunity to attend a residential weekend, and there are loads of talks and lectures you can join alongside your studies. Have a look at Ananya’s blog to get a feel for the kinds of opportunities available at LSE.
I’ve found some of my closest friends on my programme. The history society enables us to socialise with history students of all years, which is both enjoyable and useful for seeking academic help. Similarly, since many History students combine their degree with Politics, International Relations, or a language, you often get the chance to learn more about these subjects too, especially as you’ll spend a lot of time with students from those programmes. Social life at LSE is definitely something special, and the international atmosphere really opens the door for us to connect with people from all over the world. Read James’s blog to see just how interesting life at LSE can be.
When it comes to teaching, my classes are led by a mix of professors and research students. I find this combination really beneficial – while professors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, PhD students tend to be more in tune with the day-to-day lives and needs of undergraduates like us.
A History degree from LSE really sets you up for life, thanks to its strong international reputation and academic credibility. The course gives you a solid understanding of international affairs over the past 100–200 years, which provides an excellent foundation for making sense of the world today. It also keeps your options open – History graduates from LSE have gone on to careers in law, government, journalism, museum work, and much more. Whatever path you choose, LSE offers strong support for its graduates. Have a read of Magdalena’s post to see how LSE helped them shape their journey.
