Free Level 3 History Course in Birmingham

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCR awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Advanced GCE in History A Course in Birmingham. Classes run at University College Birmingham, full-time over two years. You'll study how past events shaped the political, social, and technological world we live in today. The course builds research, communication, and analytical skills that carry weight in higher education and employment alike. You'll learn to interpret sources, weigh evidence, and construct well-argued historical accounts. Entry is in September; check the University College Birmingham course page for specific entry requirements.

Who this course is for

"Those who don't know history are doomed to repeat it." - Edmund Burke

History is a vibrant subject that can teach us much about human social, political and technological development, and can help us make change for the better.

Events in the past have, after all, changed the make-up of regions and often caused tensions, creating government and societal systems that have lasted generations beyond when they started. And all of it affects each person alive today.

Through the study of A-level History at our sixth form centre, you will explore the achievements and struggles that have led us to the societies in which we now live, developing a wide range of skills including the ability to interpret information, to explore different perspectives and to evaluate historical narratives.

Crucially, your study of history will help you to develop skills including research, communication and data analysis and, on completion, you can go onto a degree course, onto an apprenticeship or go directly into industry in a range of careers.

Entry requirements

Please refer to the University College Birmingham course page for specific entry requirements.

What you will learn

  • You'll analyse how political and social systems developed across different historical periods.
  • You'll evaluate primary and secondary sources to build evidence-based arguments.
  • You'll explore different historical perspectives and challenge received narratives.
  • You'll develop research skills through independent study and extended writing.
  • You'll practise structured communication, constructing clear and persuasive arguments.
  • You'll examine the causes and consequences of major historical events and turning points.

How you will learn

Classes are delivered in person at University College Birmingham. Assessment is through written examinations at the end of the two-year course, as set by OCR. You'll also complete coursework involving independent historical investigation. Day-to-day learning includes source analysis, essay writing, and classroom discussion. The centre provides access to university e-learning resources to support your studies.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. University College Birmingham will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Researcher: gathering and analysing information for organisations or media
  • Civil service administrator: policy research and public sector work
  • Paralegal: supporting legal teams with case research and documentation
  • Journalist: investigative writing and current affairs reporting
  • Archivist or records manager: preserving and cataloguing historical documents
  • Teacher (with further training): history teaching in schools and colleges
  • Museum or heritage assistant: working with collections and public engagement

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) History: the natural next step, deepening your specialism at degree level.
  • BA (Hons) Politics, International Relations, or Law: subjects that build directly on the analytical and research skills you develop here.
  • Higher or Degree Apprenticeship: some employers in the public sector, media, and research accept A Level entry for apprenticeships at Level 4 and above.
  • PGCE in History (after a degree): the route into secondary school teaching.

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