Studying at Mansfield

 

  • Nine undergraduates join our History subject community each year.
  • With around 27 undergraduates, it’s one of the larger subjects at Mansfield.
  • Our tutors have a wide range of specialisms and research interests.

 

The University’s History Faculty is one of the biggest in the world – providing unparalleled opportunities for historical study. The course offers a wide spectrum of historical periods and approaches during the three years of undergraduate study.

You’ll study across the chronological span, examining global, European, and British history. The course structure also provides multiple opportunities to specialise in particular periods and themes, and to engage with a wide variety of primary sources – including film, literature, and material culture.

"Mansfield really is a friendly and inclusive environment. History is the subject that spoke to me; the subject I could see myself doing for three years straight. I generally write one or two essays a week, so liking your subject is very important! Luckily, we get a lot of choice in choosing what areas of history we want to study. I have and am still really loving my time here at Mansfield. I never thought I would get into Oxford, but I applied as a fantasy. You should too!"

Daniel Surrey, Mansfield History student

Teaching and learning

At Mansfield you’re able to enjoy the advantages of a large faculty with a very wide range of specialisms, combined with the personal support we offer as a College. We like to vary the teaching format, and therefore offer small classes and workshops as well as tutorials – plus targeted support to enhance your progression across key study skills. We encourage you to push your understanding of what constitutes history, and to experiment with different methodologies and sources.

The Oxford history course doesn’t require knowledge of a foreign language, but there are ample opportunities to take up or develop a foreign language if you would like to – and to put this to use in your work.

You’ll have access to the uniquely fine range of libraries which cater for students of History at Oxford. Mansfield is well-placed near the facilities of the University libraries – primarily the Bodleian and the Faculty Library – and is next door to the Vere Harmsworth Library, which specialises in American history. The College Library (open 24 hours a day) has an extensive history collection, and is continually updated to reflect developments in the scholarship.

Your History tutors

Mansfield’s History tutors have a range of research interests and expertise. You’ll also be taught by colleagues in other colleges depending on the fields of study periods you choose, and lectures and seminars are provided on a university-wide basis.

Helen Lacey

Dr Helen Lacey

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Associate Professor in Late Medieval History and Tutor for Visiting Students

Dr Helen Lacey
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Grace Heaton

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Stipendiary Lecturer in History

Grace Heaton

Professor Matt Cook

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Jonathan Cooper Chair of the History of Sexualities

Professor Matt Cook

How to apply

We welcome applicants pre and post A level (or equivalent) equally.
During the interviews the History tutors give every applicant the opportunity to demonstrate their intellectual ability and academic potential in as relaxed an environment as possible.

University of Oxford History course page Faculty of History

How to apply

Useful resources for students

Find out more

Our Access and Outreach team have put together a range of resources to help you get to know Mansfield, your subject, and your potential Oxford application.

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