History Student reading a book in the library

Study History at Hull

Join us on a journey to gain historical knowledge as we seek to tackle today’s most pressing local, national and global challenges. We balance the thrill of fresh discoveries with looking at familiar topics, while teaching the analytical skills that employers value.

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Illuminating the past. Shaping the future

History has never been more relevant to understanding the challenges of the present day.

At Hull, our internationally-excellent research places contemporary social, political and environmental issues in their historical context and ensures that our teaching remains up-to-date and ready to change the world.

As a student, you'll work closely with us as we explore a programme that is global and diverse. Our focus on employability also means that you’ll gain the skills you need for the workplace while studying a subject that you love.

You’ll engage with social and cultural history, war and politics, sudden events and long-term change – and get out of the classroom by working hands-on with local museums, archives and galleries. We even offer an award-winning programme of voluntary placements via our Hull History Network.

This isn’t studying history as you know it. You’ll work with historical sources ranging from newspapers to computer games and develop your own ideas through channels such as podcasts and online exhibitions as part of a flexible programme designed to let you delve deeper into your own particular areas of interest.

Top 10 in the UK

History at Hull is ranked in the top 10 in the UK for teaching quality¹ and learning resources.²

100%

100% of our History research received the top grade 4* for Research Impact according to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.³

90+ years

History has been taught at Hull since 1928. As one of England’s oldest universities, we have a proud heritage of academic excellence.

Hands-on

History doesn’t just take place in a classroom. At Hull, you’ll get hands-on with local museums, archives, research centres and more.

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A city full of history and opportunity

Everywhere you look in Hull, you’ll have places and people of interest – and the resources to research them – right on your doorstep.

You’ll benefit from being in a city that’s steeped in history – with access to the Hull History Centre, the Blaydes Maritime Centre, the world-renowned Wilberforce Institute, and more. And, of course, there’s the Brynmor Jones Library on campus – housing more than a million books, journals and periodicals, as well as extensive digital resources drawn from libraries and archives across the world.

The Hull Way

We do things differently here. Instead of a series of exams, you’ll expand your thinking and express your ideas in your own way.

Hull History Network

This award-winning project provides a plethora of vocational opportunities in museums, archives and more to complement your academy journey.

Where could a degree in History take you?

You’ll develop skills that are prized in many professions, and acquire the adaptability to flourish in various arenas.

You’ll learn how to analyse complex data and present clear and coherent arguments to diverse audiences, and develop skills for working both collaboratively and independently in essays, presentations and classroom discussions. These are all skills that employers value.

Take a look at the facilities you’ll be using

We've invested millions into spaces where you can study and collaborate. Such as our library, packed full of historical resources for you to enjoy. But History at Hull is about so much more than just our campus. You'll be studying in a city steeped with its own proud history and that means there are plenty more places to explore.

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Hull History Centre

The centre is the home for the University and city's archives and is also a specialised local studies library.

Hull History Centre

Brynmor Jones Library

Our 7-storey library is home to 1 million+ books, plus extensive digital resources drawn from libraries and archives across the world.

Wilberforce Institute

The Wilberforce Institute produces world-class research on historic and contemporary slavery, and hosts a growing archive of books and electronic collections.

WilberforceWilberforce Institute

Dane Mellows - History student at the University of Hull

RESEARCH PROJECTS

Want to make a positive difference to our future?

So do we. Historical research at Hull takes in a broad chronology with areas of focus including slavery, oceanic and maritime history, environmental and indigenous history, continental and island histories, and more.

We’ve made significant contributions to the critical investigation of the history of transatlantic slavery, with our research informing the decolonisation of national collections and enhancing public understanding of the UK’s complex maritime and colonial histories.

Other projects include working with Team GB to explore the racial, cultural and religious diversity that has underpinned our athletes’ success since 1896.

Discover moreDiscover our research

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STUDY ABROAD

Spread your wings and see the world while you study

To help you build an international perspective into your future academic or professional career, we provide a wide range of opportunities to experience study and life in other parts of the world.

Australia, Tokyo, Sweden, Hong Kong, India, the Netherlands ... you name it, our students have been there. And you could too.

Because every Hull student has the chance to travel and study abroad with our Global Hull service. Along the way, you’ll make unforgettable memories. But more than that, you’ll boost your confidence and your contacts.

Global opportunities

Students and parents walking around campus on an Open Day

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Our doors are always open to unclosed minds

So whoever you are, wherever you're from and wherever you want to go, we'd love to meet you.

Book your visit now, and discover how one day at Hull can change every day.

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Stay in touch

Got questions? We've got answers.

History is ranked 10th in the UK for teaching quality. The Times Good University Guide 2026

History & Archaeology is ranked 5th in the UK for learning resources. National Student Survey (NSS) 2025, HEIs only.

History at Hull is also 18th for Historical Research in the UK, according to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.