Explore History, Politics & Economics
Whether you’re fascinated by the past, wishing to keep up to date with current affairs, or to develop a deeper understanding of democracy and capitalism, we have the course for you.
City Lit offers a wide range of history, politics and economics courses on weekdays, evenings and weekends. Our courses vary from skills-based courses on oral and family history projects, to the history of empire, the history of London and the study of global powers and international politics.
Gain critical thinking and analytical skills
Courses in the Humanities help you understand our world today, and the history that has informed the political, social and economic dynamics of modern times. Our courses, including short day courses, lectures and longer-term study over several weeks or whole terms, aim to inform you of the issues that interest and matter to you. Our courses also encourage the development of wider skills such as critical thinking and analysis, listening and discussion skills, and evidence-based interpretation.
Learn from expert tutors
Our tutors are experts in their fields and come from a range of backgrounds, and include academics, experienced educators, serving politicians, acclaimed authors and renowned guides.
Browse our range of courses below to choose your perfect option: both complete beginners and returning students are equally welcome.
- A history of global capitalismCourse start date: Wed 30 Apr 2025
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Vina TheodorakopoulouWant to understand the history of global capitalism? Join Vina Theodorakopoulou to learn about the historical transitions towards what we know as capitalism today – evolution of capital, the role of the state, labour, competition, race, and innovation-automation.Full fee £169.00 Senior fee £135.00 Concession £110.00 - The Soviet Union: a history in film, 1922-1991Course start date: Wed 7 May 2025
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Nick MorganThis is an advanced course intended to use film as a primary source in exploring the history and culture of the Soviet Union in greater detail.Full fee £249.00 Senior fee £199.00 Concession £162.00 - London 1979-2020Course start date: Tue 6 May 2025
Location on this date: Keeley Street
Tutors: Mike BerlinExplore the transformation of London from the onset of Thatcherism in 1979 to its status as a global metropolis in the 21st century.Full fee £249.00 Senior fee £199.00 Concession £162.00 - Art Deco London walkCourse start date: Thu 19 Jun 2025
Location on this date: Off Site
Tutors: Diane BursteinTravel back to the 1930s to explore the Art Deco style that influenced a variety of designs, from radios and cutlery to places related to travel, entertainment and commerce. In addition to looking at the architecture of the period, your guide will tell stories of life in London from the time these buildings were being erected.
Meeting outside St James’s Park tube station (Broadway exit) and finishing at the coach station. Meeting outside St James’s Park tube station (Broadway exit) and finishing at the coach station.
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