Historical and Political Studies Major

Code MAAAJZ

History and Politics address some of the most important and contentious issues facing humanity. In this major, students will examine the ideas, structures and processes that drive society at both the national and international level.

One of the primary focuses of this course is the historical and political processes and patterns that have structured the relationship between individuals and communities. Emphasis is placed on assisting students to understand the nature of contemporary political challenges and the role of leadership, the media, corporate interests, public opinion and grassroots political movements in framing and addressing these challenges. In addition there is a focus on the role understanding our history can play in informing solutions to these issues. While the focus is global, thematic and interdisciplinary, specialist units are offered in Australian, European and Chinese politics. The major offers students the opportunity to build links between pressing contemporary issues that are impacting on global politics and international relations whilst contextualising them through a historical lens that situates the discipline as a rigorous and evidence-based approach among the multiple narratives to help frame our understanding of politics and history.