University of Leicester

History and American Studies BA

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

Our History and American Studies BA brings together two popular and exciting subjects. Combine the excellence of our Centre for American Studies – one of the top 10 places in the UK to learn American Studies* - with the world-leading research of our History experts. You will chart the history of America since its beginnings as an independent state all the way through to the modern day.

Along the way, you will study the diverse people, ideas and events that have shaped the nation. Political, cultural and economic factors will all be discussed and you will learn how all of these contribute to the shaping of one of the most influential countries in the world. You can pursue modules in American history, politics, and culture whilst also studying aspects of British, European and global history.

This degree allows you to study American politics and culture in ways that will complement and extend your understanding of both American and world history. You will also have the exciting option to immerse yourself in American culture by spending a year of accredited study at one of our partner institutions in the USA, including universities in New York, Florida, Texas, California and many other destinations across the country. *The Guardian University Guide 2021 Other official national and international qualifications considered from across the world. You can review some of the qualifications we accept on our countries page and English Language equivalencies.

If your qualification or country is not listed, please contact us for more information, including the name and result of the qualification you have studied. Second year entry may be possible with suitable qualifications. If you don’t quite meet the above entry requirements, why not consider our Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities Foundation Year ?

We welcome applications from motivated students whose predicted grades are slightly below our standard entry requirements. We understand that predicted grades are not always an

Key highlights

  • Optional year of accredited study at partner universities across the USA
  • Centre for American Studies ranked UK top 10 (Guardian 2021)
  • Charts American history from independence to the present day
  • Modules in American history, politics and culture
  • Also study British, European and global history
  • Taught by world-leading History researchers

Entry requirements

  • A-level: ABB-BBB — A/AS-levels : ABB-BBB at A-Level.
  • A-level: BBB-BBC — with EPQ; + EPQ at grade B
  • Access to HE Diploma: Pass — Pass relevant Diploma with 45 credits at level 3, 30 of which must be at distinction
  • International Baccalaureate: 30 — …relevant Diploma with 45 credits at level 3, 30 of which must be at distinction International Baccalaureate : Pass Diploma with 30 points including 6 in one Higher Level subject BTEC Nationals : Pass Diploma with DDM Other offi…
  • BTEC: DDM — …Baccalaureate : Pass Diploma with 30 points including 6 in one Higher Level subject BTEC Nationals : Pass Diploma with DDM Other official national and international qualifications considered from across the world.

Scholarships

  • Chancellor’s International Scholarship

    This scholarship, worth £3,000 per year, reflects the University’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world.

    Up to £3,000

  • Choral Scholarships at Leicester Cathedral

    Leicester Cathedral offers three Choral Scholarships of £1,000 each year to University of Leicester students (undergraduates or postgraduates).

    Up to £1,000

  • Family Loyalty Discount

    10% discount on the tuition fee for each year of your course.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • International Citizens of Change Scholarship

    A £10,000 tuition fee discount will be awarded to 10 undergraduate international fee-paying students starting an undergraduate programme in September 2026 for each year of their course for up to three years.

    Up to £10,000

  • International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship

    This merit-based scholarship, worth £5,000 per year, is offered to international-fee-paying students applying for an undergraduate degree at the University of Leicester who achieve or exceed the academic grades outlined.

  • International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver

  • Music Scholarship

    Music Scholarships of £500 are available for the academic year to cover the cost of music lessons for student musicians who are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any subject.

    Up to £500

  • Sanctuary Scholarships

    Each Sanctuary Scholarship consists of a tuition fee waiver, and a support package to be confirmed following assessment with our Welfare Service.

  • Sports Scholarships - The Talented Athlete Award

    Financial contribution on agreed items up to £500 (e.g., travel expenses, equipment, specialist coaching, nutritional advice).

Careers this course leads to

  • Archivist
  • Museum curator
  • Journalist
  • Policy researcher
  • Civil Service administrator
  • Secondary school history teacher (after PGCE)

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790; £10,050 | International: £20,200

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Leicester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

Ready to start?

Book a free consultation and we'll map your fastest route to a September 2026 place.

Apply Now
Download Free Guide