Certificate in History
Course Overview
The Certificate in History at London Online University (LOU) is a 3 to 6-month introductory programme for learners who want to explore the discipline of history in a structured academic setting for the first time. Delivered entirely online through LOU's virtual learning environment, the certificate introduces you to major periods and themes in world history, and develops the analytical reading, source evaluation, and essay-writing skills that underpin historical scholarship — all at London academic standards.
By the end of this certificate, you will have a foundational awareness of how historians think, argue, and interpret the past. Whether you are planning to progress into further humanities study or simply wish to deepen your engagement with history, this certificate provides a credible and accessible online starting point.
Key Features
- Delivered entirely online and accessible via LOU's virtual learning environment with no campus attendance required
- Curriculum aligned with the academic standards of the British Academy and the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
- Live online lectures and recorded sessions available on demand, allowing study from anywhere in the world
- Digital library access including primary sources, historical journals, and key secondary texts
- Analytical essay and source-evaluation tasks designed to develop genuine academic skills
- Foundation articulation route into the LOU Diploma in History and Heritage Studies
What You Will Learn
- Introduction to the nature of historical enquiry and how historical arguments are constructed
- Familiarity with key periods in world history — ancient, medieval, early modern, and modern
- Basic understanding of primary and secondary source analysis
- Awareness of major historical themes — empire, revolution, industrialisation, globalisation
- Introduction to historiography and how interpretations of the past change over time
- Basic understanding of how to structure a historical argument in written form
- Introduction to the relationship between history and cultural heritage
Who This Course Is For
- School leavers who have an interest in history and want a UK-recognised foundation qualification
- Adults returning to education who studied history at secondary level and wish to progress further
- Professionals in heritage, museums, education, or the public sector who want a formal historical grounding
- International learners who need flexible online study to pursue humanities education at London standards
- Anyone with a passion for understanding the past who has no prior formal qualification in history
Career Pathways
- Heritage and Cultural Tourism Officer (with further study)
- Museum or Archive Assistant
- Education and Community Engagement Officer
- Content Writer, History and Culture
- Academic Researcher (with further study)
- Publishing Director (with further study)
LOU's online career support service provides virtual guidance on pursuing careers in heritage, education, media, and the public sector, with online interview preparation and CV support available throughout your studies.
Entry Requirements
- Age 16+ with a genuine interest in history and a commitment to online learning
- GCSE-equivalent secondary education (or overseas equivalent)
- Basic English proficiency for online study (IELTS 5.0 or equivalent for international applicants)
- Access to a computer or tablet with a reliable internet connection for online delivery
- No prior qualification in history or humanities required — this is a foundation entry route
Why Study at LOU
LOU — London Online University — is an online-first division of Harold International College of London, giving students and working professionals worldwide access to London-standard humanities education through LOU's virtual learning environment. Live online lectures, recorded sessions available on demand, and comprehensive digital library access make historical study online both rigorous and rewarding.
The value of studying humanities online is significant — history develops critical thinking, analytical writing, and the ability to evaluate competing arguments, skills that are highly transferable across careers in education, media, heritage, and public affairs. LOU students can study from anywhere in the world and progress through the full qualification ladder to Bachelor and Master level.
Apply for Certificate in History
Start your London-recognised online qualification today by applying for the Certificate in History at LOU. This programme is delivered entirely online, so you can pursue your interest in historical study from anywhere in the world. Enrol Now
