Durham University History Society

We have a thriving student community focused upon the History Society (DUHS), one of the largest societies within the university, which has a range of events throughout the year. These vary from academic talks, given by historians in the department and invited speakers from other universities, through to social events like the annual Elizabethan banquet at Lumley Castle. The Society also organises social events throughout the year, such as pub quizzes and film nights, and occasional trips to see Hadrian’s Wall or Robin Hood’s Bay. The Society also publishes an annual journal, where students can contribute their essays.

College Experience

Whilst studying history at Durham, you’ll also belong to one of our seventeen unique colleges. Ranging from the oldest - University College (Castle), founded in 1832 - to our newest - South College, formed in 2020 - each offers a variety of sports, organisations and societies to join, as well as social events throughout the year. As teaching takes place within the department, our college system thus provides an environment dedicated to delivering an unrivalled experience outside of your studies.

Student Welfare

We are committed to providing a safe environment in which our students can live and study, and so have a range of overlapping student support services. Some of these are within the department, where you’ll have an academic advisor, with whom you can discuss concerns about your studies, as well as level tutors and the director of undergraduate studies. One of the key roles of our collegiate system is to provide pastoral support and this is done through a range of different methods. Some take the form of welfare officers from amongst the student body; others are dedicated student support officers, such as senior tutors, who are on hand should you experience difficulties outside of your studies. We also have a range of central services, including the Counselling Service, Disability Support, and Durham Centre for Academic Development, who provide help with any difficulties that are impacting your studies or university life.

What do our students think?

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