Course content

In this course, the political, economic, and social aspects of contemporary British society will be studied in the light of developments since 1945. Britain’s relations with Europe and the rest of the world in the post war period will be examined and discussed, with a particular focus on the question of Britain’s role in the world, post-Empire.

Emphasis will also be placed on the development of British politics from 1979 to the present; focusing on the Thatcher period, New Labour and the recent Coalition government.

Learning outcome

After completing this course, you have:

  • an understanding of and insight into British postwar history and society.
  • an overview of the development of politics in Britain since the second world war, with a particular focus on the period since Mrs Thatcher gained office in 1979.

Admission

Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.

If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.

Prerequisites

Recommended previous knowledge

It is strongly recommended that students take the survey course ENG1505 – British Civilisation, an introduction before they begin their study of Britain since 1945.

Overlapping courses

10 credits overlap with ENG4515 – Britain since 1945 (discontinued)

Teaching

Seminar, two hours per week for 10 weeks, 20 hours in all.

Attendance is obligatory at least 8 out of 10 seminars. Read more about rules concerning valid excuses and how to apply for approved absences or postponements here.

Students must submit a first draft of the paper within a set due date. Feedback will be given.

During the semester, students will prepare one oral group presentation for the rest of the class.

All obligatory activities must be approved in the same semester.

Examination

The exam consists of two parts:

  1. A term paper. You are required to write ca. 5 pages (+/- 10%). 
  2. A 2-hour written exam at the end of the term. 

A pass mark is required on both parts. Both exam parts have to be taken in the same semester.  The exams will be graded separately with a combined final mark. The term paper counts towards 70% of the grade and the 2-hour exam counts towards 30%.

Previous exams and assessment guidelines

Written examination

The written examination is