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Modern History

What is A-Level Modern World History?

A-Level Modern World History is not just about studying the past. It’s about exploring the debates that shape our understanding of it. This course encourages you to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and build strong, analytical arguments. 

You will learn how to examine sources, challenge viewpoints, and develop independent lines of enquiry. Along the way, you’ll strengthen your ability to work with others while growing into a confident and curious learner, ready to take on the demands of the modern world.

What Will You Study in A-Level Modern History?

Year 12

In Year 12, you'll explore two key periods that shaped modern Europe: revolutionary France and post-war Britain. This will give you a firm foundation in political change, leadership, and the evolution of national identity.

Unit 2: The French Revolution and the Rule of Napoleon (1774–1815)

  • The causes of the French Revolution and the events of 1789
  • The Revolution from October 1789 to the Directory in 1795
  • Napoleon Bonaparte’s rise and leadership to 1807
  • The decline and fall of Napoleon from 1807 to 1815

Unit 1: Britain (1930–1997)

  • Churchill’s views and role from 1929 to 1940
  • His wartime leadership and diplomacy (1939–1951)
  • Conservative rule (1951–1964)
  • Changing governments (1964–1979)
  • Thatcher and the end of consensus (1979–1997)
  • Britain’s global position (1951–1997)

In Year 13, your focus shifts to civil rights in the USA. You'll study key campaigns and movements that fought for equality across American society.

Unit 3: Civil Rights in the USA (1865–1992)

Depth study topics include:

  • Civil Rights in the ‘Gilded Age’ (c.1875–c.1895)
  • The New Deal and its impact
  • Malcolm X and the Black Power movement

Thematic study topics include:

  • African American civil rights
  • Trade union and labour rights
  • Native American rights
  • Women’s rights movements

Unit 4: NEA (Coursework)

  • Independent study on the Suez Crisis of 1956

What Next after Completing A-Level Modern World History?

A-Level History is highly valued by top universities, including those in the Russell Group. It is considered the preferred humanities subject for entry onto many competitive undergraduate courses.

Studying history shows that you can:

  • Write detailed, structured arguments
  • Think independently
  • Analyse and evaluate evidence effectively
  • Reach clear, well-supported conclusions

These skills are in high demand across many sectors. Our students have gone on to pursue careers in areas such as:

  • Law
  • Politics and public administration
  • Education
  • Media and journalism
  • Business and marketing
  • Archaeology and heritage
  • Work with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

What is the Exam Board for A-Level Modern World History?

The Modern World History A-Level programme is assessed by the exam board OCR.

How Will I Be Assessed?

Unit

Title

% of the mark

Length assessment

Unit 1

Britain 1930 - 1997

25%

1 hour 30 mins

Unit 2

French Revolution and the rule of Napoleon 1774-1815

15%

1 hour

Unit 3

Civil Rights in the USA 1865-1992

40%

2 hour 30 mins

Unit 4

NEA - Coursework

20%

4,000 word essay

Throughout the course, your progress will also be monitored through internal College Assessment Point (CAP) exams. These assessments are designed to reflect the style of your final exams and help you track your development.

  • In Year 12, you'll complete three CAPs: one in autumn, one in spring, and one in summer.
  • In Year 13, there are two CAPs: one in autumn and another in spring.

What are the Entry Requirements for A-Level Modern World History?

To study A-Level Modern World History, you'll typically need:

  • At least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above
  • A grade 6 in History (if previously studied)
  • A grade 6 in either English Language or English Literature

You might also want to explore our Mixed Programme option. This allows you to combine A-Levels with a BTEC qualification. Even if you're not quite on track for five grade 5s, there may still be a suitable pathway for you at Newman.