Our reputation
History has been taught and researched at Leeds since 1877. Today, the School of History is internationally recognised as a leading centre for ground-breaking historical research and innovative teaching.
Our teaching and research covers a broad range of chronological periods, geographies and themes from the Middle Ages to the present day. We have expertise in areas of the world from Britain, Europe and Russia, to America, Asia and Africa and in key themes from international, political, cultural and social history, to military, religious, diplomatic and intellectual history.
Our academic staff are leaders in their fields and are passionate about teaching, supporting and engaging our students through compelling lectures, lively seminar discussions and one-to-one research supervisions.
Our academic community is also comprised of world-leading specialists — historians and passionate educators who support and engage our students through compelling lectures, lively seminar discussions, one-to-one research supervision and detailed feedback on all assessments.
When you join the School of History, you‘ll become part of a large and supportive community of more than 40 academic staff, approximately 1,000 undergraduates and over 150 postgraduate students. All of our students benefit greatly from our local, national and global partnerships with organisations in the arts, heritage, community and third sector, in addition to relationships with policymakers and think tanks.
The global impact of our research allows us to continually invest in world-class facilities and leading academic staff, ensuring our students will be taught by internationally renowned, inspirational academics who are leaders in their field.
University of Leeds rankings
- 86th in the world, QS World University Rankings 2026
- 6th most targeted by employers, High Fliers 2025 Report
- 21st in the UK, Complete University Guide
- Top 10 UK student city, Best Student Cities 2025
- We are a member of the Russell Group of research-intensive universities
Academic excellence
- Top 15 in the UK for History, Complete University Guide 2026
- Top 100 in the world for History, QS World Rankings by Subject 2025
Natascha Allen-Smith BA History
It can seem like you become just a number in a colossal database when you start university, but the School of History has a many-layered support network to counter any personal or academic problems. There are regular Peer Mentoring sessions for First Years, members of staff specifically appointed to handle problems, and personal tutors with whom you meet at least once a term.View Profile