What will I learn on this module?
This module will enable you to learn about the emergence of contemporary Europe by surveying the continent’s history from the 18th century to the present. Its thematic overview of the history of Europe and its relationship with the non-European world, will provide you with an introductory knowledge and understanding of global developments. It covers key issues in the social, economic and political transformation of Europe during this period, dwelling on events in Britain and Europe where necessary, but always maintaining an international perspective. You will be encouraged to think in terms of European development as a whole, and not in terms of discrete national histories, and to make comparisons between different parts of the continent, often on a regional rather than a national basis. Many of the important events which are often seen to be rooted in a particular national considerations are nevertheless are also part of broader contexts which transcend national boundaries. For example, the collapse of the old aristocratic order, profound long-term upheavals in the international economy, the spread of communist ideology, and the rise of fascism, to name but a few.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn on this module by attending lectures that present key topics in European history and discussing those topics in seminars. You will be taught through twice-weekly lectures and weekly seminars, and will engage with a variety of primary and secondary sources. Lectures will provide broad overviews of themes, concepts and historiographical controversies. Seminars will offer you the opportunity to engage with some of these themes/concepts/controversies in a more interactive manner. You will be expected to conduct a significant amount of independent research for seminars and for assessment. By the end of the module you will have gained a knowledge and understanding of modern European history that will provide a foundation for further study of Europe.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Your academic development will be supported through engagement with your peers, academic tutors, and programme leaders. Academic support is provided through seminar discussions and optional essay tutorials which allow specific issues to be addressed and to promote progress in academic development. The module tutor will be accessible within publicised office hours and via email. Your peers will provide you will a collaborative learning environment, and your programme leader will guide you through the requirements and expectations of your course. You will also be supported through individual engagement with the academic literature, lectures, and resources available on the eLearning Portal. Formative feedback will be on-going throughout seminar activities and through assessment tasks.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the development of Europe and its interaction with the wider world during the period.
2. Critically evaluate key concepts and issues in social, economic and political transformation such as revolution, nationalism, fascism, communism, racism and industrialism.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Identify and deploy a variety of important historical writing in the study of European history.
4. Exhibit an ability to select relevant material across period and place and deploy this evidence in written form.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Value curiosity, collaboration, and academic integrity as the keystones of effective learning.
How will I be assessed?
There are two equally weighted assessments for the module:
1. A 2,000 word essay that tests students’ knowledge of the relevant history and historiography, and will demonstrate their ability to evaluate conflicting interpretations of events.
MLOs 1-5
2. A 24 hour take-home, open-book examination that tests students’ knowledge of a range of topics. It will reflect both the chronological and geographical span of the module, and answers should display an awareness of the major historical controversies surrounding the period.
MLOs 1-5
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
Please find details of this module in the other sections provided.
Course info
UCAS Code LV21
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Humanities
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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