History is the study of the past and has always been about change. Historians examine political, economic, social and cultural issues. It is an academic subject that makes you question why things happened, the consequences, and the way people viewed them.
Entry requirements
To study at RSFC, you must have achieved a minimum of five GCSEs or equivalent at grade 4 or above across four separate subjects, including GCSE Mathematics and/or English Language.
Why study this course?
History is a traditional academic subject that is highly regarded by universities. Top universities recommend History at A level as a way to access a wide variety of more specialist courses as well as valuing it as a subject in its own right.
What can you expect from A level History?
Debating and discussing historical issues is central to the study of this course. You should expect to be able to use the knowledge that you gain to make arguments as to the causes, consequences and significance of the key events studied. The periods of history studied embrace a range of religious, cultural and political perspectives so an open-minded ability to listen to alternative viewpoints and have a respect for them is essential. Some of the cultural norms studied differ from modern societies so there is a need for an appreciation of how people in the past saw the world around them.
KEY TOPICS
• The Age of the Crusades, 1071-1204. What motivated both Christians and Muslims to wage ‘holy war’? Investigate the four crusades and participants including the zealous Christian Templars, the mysterious Muslim Assassins, as well as the Byzantine remnants of the Roman Empire. The age of the crusades witnessed a staggering clash of cultures and societies where greed and the pursuit of power clashed with sincere religious beliefs on an international stage.
• The Wars of the Roses, 1450-1499. Fifteenth-century England witnessed the destruction of the dynasty that had ruled for over three hundred years. The Plantagenets were a family divided between the house of Lancaster and the house of York. From the ‘madness’ of Henry VI, through to the glamour of Edward IV’s court, and the controversial rule of Richard III, one of the most vilified kings in English history, the houses fought for control of England and the support of ‘over mighty’ nobles. Study the real-life game of thrones and the ascent of the Tudors to power.
• American Military Interventions, 1798-2003 (Coursework). The nineteenth and twentieth centuries saw the rise of the United States to the ranks of global superpower. Choose a hundred-year period within this timescale and investigate the reasons for American intervention in the affairs of others through conflicts such as the world wars, Korea and Vietnam as well as more recent conflicts such as Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq.
What can I do with a qualification in History?
History is a subject that provides suitable preparation for higher education. As a traditional academic course, History is well regarded by universities and supports an application for many courses, notably English, History, Law, Modern Languages and Politics.
How is this course assessed?
Assessment is through two examinations and coursework, with 20% of your total marks coming from the coursework.
Who is this course for?
If you are interested in studying past events and analysing the causes and impact of historical events, A level History is the course for you.
