Many universities also offer a range of online learning options via moocs or other platforms. As part of their outreach, some of these are freely available. If you want to get ahead over the summer and prepare yourself for your history course, why not try one of the free online short courses offered by universities? It may also help you to get to grips with some of the online learning options that can be used.
 

Derby | Exeter | Kent | Leeds Beckett | Royal Holloway | Open University
 

University of Derby

Website: https://www.derby.ac.uk/departments/humanities/ 

Contact: Dr Tom Neuhaus, t.neuhaus@derby.ac.uk 

Online taster course:
 

• Dictatorship, Censorship, and Propaganda: Historical Perspectives (Free MOOC)
  Over the course of five units, this free online course explores the histories of the Third Reich under Adolf Hitler, the Soviet Union under Josef Stalin, and the People’s Republic of China under Mao Zedong. It covers a range of issues relevant to the history of these authoritarian regimes, including the use of terror and violence, how propaganda was produced by the state and received by ordinary citizens, as well as the ways in which ordinary people collaborated with or resisted state authority. Finally, it also explores how present-day Germany, Russia and China deal with the complex legacies these three regimes have left.
  
  This course is for anyone with an interest in modern history and politics. We particularly welcome students of History and Politics at schools and colleges and hope that the course will give you an insight into what it is like to study these subjects at university.
  
  

History at the University of Exeter

Contacts: Prof. Henry French, Head of Dept. H.French@exeter.ac.uk
Dr Gemma Clark, Admissions Officer G.M.Clark@exeter.ac.uk  

About: History at Exeter has a global reputation for excellence in teaching and research and we are proud to be one of the leading research centres for History in the UK. Our varied research culture is one of the things which makes History at Exeter unique. We have expertise in political, economic, social, cultural, religious, medical, environmental, maritime, naval, military and diplomatic history. Find out more

Online taster course:
 

• MOOC on the British Empire - The British Empire continues to cause enormous disagreement among historians. Find out why and join the debate in this Free 6-week MOOC. 
   

School of History, University of Kent

Online taster courses:
 

• MOOC: ‘From Waterloo to the Rhine: The British Army 1815-1945’ - Free MOOC on British Military History. On this course, you’ll see for yourself how the British Army evolved as an institution between 1815 and 1945. You’ll reflect on its social composition, place in society, and military proficiency, analysing a range of primary sources and incorporating your findings into historical debate. (Requires Registration but is completely free.) 
  
  
• DP11075: School of History Transition module - Free module for A-Level students who have finished their exams. School of History at Kent’s transition module has been set up to provide A-Level students with some brief but important information that will answer some of the questions young people may have about what they can expect when they become History Undergraduates. We hope that the information in this module ultimately leaves them feeling well-informed and confident to make the most of their new environment and the opportunities offered by studying History at the University of Kent. (Please note that at the moment this website requires a Kent login but we are working to make it freely accessible for all.) 
  
  

History at Leeds Beckett University

Contact: Simon Morgan s.j.morgan@leedsbeckett.ac.uk 

About: History at LBU: nurture your understanding of social, cultural and political developments in Britain, Europe and the wider world from 1700 onwards. Find out more

Online taster courses:
 

• LBU Study Ready - an open-access online course designed to share tips and advice on what it’s like to study at university and introducing some key study skills. No login is required.
    

Department of History at Royal Holloway

Contact: Catriona Cooper Catriona.Cooper@rhul.ac.uk

About: To be a historian is to be insatiably curious and ready to question, to challenge and to learn. It is these qualities which define our community. The History department at Royal Holloway has an international reputation for teaching, research and public engagement. We are passionate about our work but equally committed to the well-being of all members of the department. Find out more

Online taster courses:

• Free online courses designed and run by the Department of History at Royal Holloway.  These courses are suitable for students making the transition to A Level, to University or for teachers looking to develop their subject knowledge. They have been developed by our Historians in collaboration with heritage institutions to bring together the most up-to-date knowledge and engaging stories.

The Open University

Contact: Dr Anna Plassart anna.plassart@open.ac.uk 

About: Whether you’re looking to improve your understanding of the past or enhance your career prospects, our history courses have much to offer you. Historians at The Open University want to share their passion for history and to inspire you to learn about the past. They are committed to delivering the highest quality teaching and assessment materials that are informed by up-to-date historical research. Find out more

Online taster courses:
 

• The First World War: Trauma and Memory - online module. This is a 9-hour 'taster' course, pitched at introductory level (Level 1). It contains text, but also a variety of A/V materials. 
   
• National Identity in Britain and Ireland, 1780-1840 - online module. This is a 4-hour 'taster' course. Althouth it is really aimed at L2 students, it can also be used at L1 as it is relatively short and contains a number of activities with sample answers.