A level History

Other Courses

History A level by distance learning – the course

The History A level course includes two major components – AS level and A2 level. The AS level is a qualification in its own right and may be studied for on a one-year distance learning course.

Each lesson begins with a set of clearly stated objectives and an explanation of its place in the overall programme of study.

Effective learning is encouraged through frequent activities and self-assessment questions.

The course includes nineteen Tutor-marked Assignments (known as TMAs), eleven in the AS course and eight in the A2.

Key Topics

The Oxford Open Learning History A-level course is based on the new AQA 2040 specification and covers the following four selected options:

History AS level course

Module One: Britain, 1906-1951
Module Two: The USA and Vietnam, 1961-1975

History A2 level course

Module Three: Aspects of International Relations, 1945-2004
Module Four: Representation and Democracy in Britain, 1830-1931 – Chartism and Later Struggles (Historical Report)

The History A level Syllabus

This course prepares candidates for the AQA History AS level syllabus 2040, for examination in 2012 and later years. Most candidates will then study the A2 syllabus. The full Advanced level qualification comprises AS and A2.

AS level assessment is by two written exam papers while A2 requires a further written exam paper and a Historical Report.

Coursework

A2 students are required to complete a historical report worth 20% of the final mark. Full guidance is given within the course and by your distance learning tutor.

Entry requirements for the History A level course

Students wishing to study the A level History course need a minimum of 4 GCSEs or equivalent. This should include English GCSE or English IGCSE. Whilst we don’t absolutely insist on History GCSE as a prerequisite, students are advised to have studied History GCSE first as it teaches modern historical research methods.

Successful History A level Students

Many students study the History A level course just for the love of the subject, others so they can progress on to university. Below is a quote from Brian Whitehead, one of our 2010 graduates about his reasons for studying A level History.

“I chose to study History in order to help me get on a university course for teaching and although this is no longer my overall goal, I feel as though I have achieved new personal goals and developed belief in my own abilities.”

Within this qualification there are the following courses

The History A level course, more than any other subject, requires you to read far more than a single supporting text. The most essential books linked to the History A level course are as follows:

Click to download the History A level course introduction

Click to view the History A level specification

What our students say about studying our History A level

"I have loved doing History A level. It has been a very positive experience. I did not achieve when I was at school and this has been a huge confidence boost to now be getting A's and B's."

Vicki Jarvis 2010

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