If you’re thinking of taking a history degree, you're probably already planning to study history at A-level. But what are the best subjects to combine it with? Read on…
By Andy Gardner (Careers Adviser) | 14 March 2025 | 1 minutes read
If you’re planning to study history at university, an A-level in history will keep all courses open to you – though more unis than you might think will accept you without it. Either way, having a combination of essay-based subjects such as English literature and politics will set you in good stead for studying history at degree level.
Essential A-levels (or equivalent)
Most courses require history, but there are some exceptions.
Useful A-levels (or equivalent)
Economics.
English literature.
Politics.
Philosophy.
Sociology.
Theology or religious studies.
Other A-levels taken by current history students
General studies.
English language.
Maths.
Take a look at individual history courses on The Uni Guide to find out the most popular subjects students studied before taking a history degree.
Similar subjects may have slightly different A-level requirements to history, so if you want to keep your degree options open, be sure to check the entry requirements of specific courses before you finalise your choices.