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Study history

Study human history across continents and cultures, from prehistory to the present. 

We are one of the few Schools in the UK to include historians working on every period from prehistoric humans, Ancient Greece and Rome, to medieval, early modern and modern societies. Our expertise encompasses much of the globe, with specialists in, for example, medieval Armenia, early modern England, colonial India, modern China, Nazi Germany and much more.

Birkbeck was ranked in the top eight universities in the UK for its History, Classics and Archaeology research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

Come and meet us

If you're a postgraduate student looking to start studying in January or October 2026, you can join us at our Postgraduate Open Evening on 12 November.

If you're an undergraduate student looking to study with us, come along to our Student Support Event on 26 November.

Alternatively, come along to one of campus tours, suitable for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

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Birkbeck Explains: What is public history?

Dr Julia Laite explains what is meant by public history. "Public history explores community history, oral history and memory, digital, online and crowdsourced history, fiction, performance, and it also considers other, often non-Western forms of remembering and explaining the past."

Find out more about Birkbeck's MA Public Histories

History at Birkbeck

History Courses

We offer a range of programmes at all study levels to focus and develop your interest in history, from prehistory to present. View our courses.

Birkbeck Institute for the Study of Antisemitism

The Institute is a centre of innovative research and teaching and contributes to discussion and public policy on antisemitism and intolerance.

Centre for the Study of internationalism

The Centre for the Study of Internationalism takes a broad view to make sense of internationalism in its various guises, past and present.

Raphael Samuel History Centre

London-based, we are devoted to encouraging the widest possible participation in historical study and debate.

Eric Hobsbawm and Birkbeck

Explore why Eric Hobsbawm’s work continues to inspire students and academics around the world.

Information and support

Contact us

Contact us if you need specific course advice that's not available on our site or if you're a PhD with research enquiries.

Staff list

Browse a list of the academic staff teaching you as well as the school staff who can provide help and guidance.

Open days

Come to Birkbeck and visit us in central London or watch an online campus tour.

Timetables for enrolled students

A personalised timetable is available for enrolled students on their MyBirkbeck profile.

Taster Events

Meet our experts to get a flavour of studying at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in our department.

More reasons to choose Birkbeck

Top reasons to choose Birkbeck

If you have the ability and drive to succeed, find out how Birkbeck’s study options and outstanding support can help you achieve the university education you want.

Student services

Birkbeck offers a range of services to current students, including disability support, financial support and academic support.

Student funding

Find out more about advice, support and funding opportunities for Birkbeck students at undergraduate, postgraduate and MPhil/PhD levels.

How to apply

Find out how to apply for any of our courses, including details about work experience, personal statements and supporting documents.

International students

If you're an international student wishing to study at Birkbeck, find out about our entry requirements, English language requirements and how to apply.