Open day questions: history and philosophy students
If you've got a penchant for history or philosophy (or perhaps both), don't head to a university open day without checking through these must-ask questions…
By Nik Taylor (Editor, The Uni Guide) | 14 March 2025 | 1 minutes read
About the course
How much reading is there each week?
How many contact hours / lectures are there per week?
Am I taught research methods?
How many of my lecturers are still publishing research?
Do I specialise in a particular period or area, or is it a broad syllabus?
Books and facilities
What books are necessary for me to buy?
Do I need to read anything before I start the course?
Are there enough books for all history students to access easily?
Can my reading material be found online?
Field trips and placements
Are there any field trips?
Can I do a placement year?
Will companies take on interns from this course?
Can I take modules in other subjects?
Assessments
What is the split between exams / coursework / group work?
Will I have to do presentations during the course?
Do I need to complete a dissertation or research-based project?
Prospects
Can I move on to a related PhD or Masters after my course? Is there funding for me to do this?
How could I make the most out this course and get a job at the end of it?