School of Humanities and Journalism

The study of human culture at the University of Derby

Whichever Humanities subject you choose, you’ll receive the same dedicated and personalised support from your tutors, which is what makes Derby different.

Add to that their experience and research reputation in their field of study, the links with cultural organisations and authors which feed into your studies, and access to a unique range of nationally and internationally important heritage sites on our doorstep – and you’ll have the foundations for a successful career in your area of specialism.

Our teaching teams strive to make a real civic impact in the city and wider region, in the cultural and creative industries and beyond, giving you an opportunity to apply what you learn in the classroom. Travelling further afield, as a Humanities undergraduate student you have the option to spend a semester of your second year studying abroad at one of our partners in Europe or the USA.

Humanities American Exchange Meet our students

1^stfor student satisfactionHistory subject area, Complete University Guide 2025

1^stfor teachingHistory - National Student Survey 2024

1^stfor academic supportEnglish Studies - National Student Survey 2024

Thomas Neuhaus speaking to colleagues at an event

Our School offers exciting and inspiring courses that equip you to tackle the issues of the modern world and develop innovative solutions. You’ll be supported to build a strong skillset to understand current issues such as globalisation, cultural diversity, free speech, environmental challenges, and the impact of digital technologies.

Dr Tom Neuhaus

Head of the Discipline of Humanities

Our undergraduate subjects

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Journalism

Gain substantial practical experience of researching and producing powerful print, radio, TV, online stories and more through our Journalism and Media courses.

A female student with brown hair and glasses stood in the library reading a book

English, Creative Writing and Publishing

Discover our English, Creative Writing and Publishing courses where you will learn from experienced writers, enhance your skills, and launch your creative career.

History

Our History, International Relations and Politics courses are designed to be relevant to today’s industries, giving you a fantastic platform to launch a dynamic career in a specialism of your ch...

International Relations and Politics

Our History, International Relations and Politics courses are designed to be relevant to today’s industries, giving you a fantastic platform to launch a dynamic career in a specialism of your ch...

Our postgraduate subjects

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English, Creative Writing and Publishing

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History and Heritage

The MA History and Heritage programme at Derby is designed to demonstrate the value of historical and heritage-based research and practice in a variety of business and industry contexts.

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Journalism

Global Affairs and Politics

Our research

We have a longstanding reputation in all of our subjects and our staff are active researchers at the highest level. Staff within Humanities contribute to the Communication, Cultural and Media Studies unit of assessment in the Research Excellence Framework.