History and Politics

The new BA in History and Politics will offer students the opportunity to undertake intensive study in political science, the history of political thought, a range of topics in modern British, European, American and world history, conceptual issues in political science, and quantitative methods. Cambridge History and Politics graduates are highly employable and the course should provides a springboard into a huge variety of careers, from journalism and broadcasting to PR, law, business and finance.

In first year, students take five papers: ‘Evidence and Argument’, two papers from the Politics and International Relations course, and one History outline paper.

In Part IB, students take a paper in the history of political thought, a paper on either Comparative Politics or International Organisation, a history outline paper, and a long essay paper in either History or Politics.

In final year, all students take a core paper called Theory and Practice in History and Politics. Alongside this, students take three other papers which are chosen from a wide variety of specialised options.

Further information can be found on the Faculty and University websites.  

Typical offers require

• A-Level: A*AA including A* in History
• IB: 42 points, with 776 in Higher Level including 7 in HL History
• Advanced Highers: A1, A2, A2 including A2 in History

For other qualifications see the main entrance requirements pages on the University website. 

Subject Requirements

• Required: History
• Highly recommended: Politics

Mature students and those taking other qualifications are encouraged to contact our Admissions Office (at admissions@lucy.cam.ac.uk) to discuss the entry requirements for their qualifications.

Written work

Applicants are required to submit two pieces of written work.

Assessments

Applicants are required to sit a Cambridge Colleges Registered assessment.

Interviews

Interviews allow us to distinguish amongst excellent applicants by assessing the skills and aptitudes essential for successful study in higher education, and your academic qualities – essentially, how do you think?

For 2023 entry, interviews for all applicants, will take place virtually, except for UK-based applications to Trinity College. However, the aims and content will still be the same as in-person interviews.

Each candidate typically has two interviews, lasting between twenty and thirty minutes. In some cases, you will be given preparatory reading beforehand.

In a few subjects, you will be interviewed by more than one College or in the Faculty. You will be notified of this in your interview invitation.

Supracurricular exploration is an important way to expand your knowledge of your subject, explore your interests and develop your skills. Our new webpage contains guidance on supracurricular exploration and a comprehensive source of resources, grouped according to undergraduate degrees at Cambridge. 

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Attend an open day or event

Our Events and Open Days page advertises regular events held by Lucy Cavendish College. If you can, join us for a College Open Day to discuss your application with a member of our admissions team.