Historical Studies

Program Description:

The Bachelor of Arts in Historical Studies at the University of Cape Town offers students an in-depth exploration of human history, spanning from ancient civilizations to modern times, with a focus on regional and global developments. This program aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of historical processes and their impact on contemporary society. Through a diverse curriculum that includes lectures, seminars, research projects, and internships, students engage with primary and secondary sources, fostering a rigorous approach to historical research and interpretation.

The program provides a comprehensive overview of various periods, such as colonialism, apartheid, post-apartheid South Africa, and international history, allowing students to understand complex social, political, economic, and cultural dynamics. Emphasis is placed on developing skills in historiography, source analysis, and academic writing, preparing graduates for careers in education, research, publishing, policy analysis, and more.

Students have the opportunity to specialize in particular regions or themes, such as African history, world history, or social movements, tailoring their academic journey to their interests and career aspirations. The program also encourages critical reflection on issues of identity, memory, and historical justice, enabling students to appreciate the relevance of history in addressing contemporary challenges.

The Department of Historical Studies at UCT fosters a vibrant academic community, supported by experienced faculty members engaged in pioneering research. Students benefit from access to extensive libraries, archives, and digital resources, facilitating high-quality research and learning. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to contribute thoughtfully to society, possessing a deep understanding of the past and its influence on present and future developments. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Historical Studies at UCT offers a rigorous, enriching educational experience designed to produce informed, engaged, and analytical graduates prepared to make meaningful contributions in various fields.

• HST4000S READING COURSE IN HISTORICAL STUDIES
• HST4011S PRE-INDUSTRIAL WESTERN CAPE ARCHAEOLOGY AND HISTORY
• HST4016S AFRICAN ENVIRONMENTAL HISTORY
• HST4026F SPECIAL TOPICS IN HISTORICAL STUDIES
• HST4032S ADDITIONAL TOPIC IN HISTORICAL STUDIES
• HST4053F DEBATES IN ECONOMIC HISTORY
• HST4054F TOPICS IN SOUTH AFRICAN ECONOMIC HISTORY
• HST4055S RACISM, COLONIALISM & GENOCIDE
• HST4056S THEMES IN EVERYDAY HISTORY
• HST4057F THEMES IN INDIAN OCEAN HISTORY
• HST4058S THEMES IN CONTEMPORARY SA RURAL HISTORY 

• Applicants must have the required academic background and must submit an acceptable research proposal for which supervision is available. The research proposal should focus on a clearly defined topic, set out the research questions to be addressed and show familiarity with the appropriate sources, both primary and secondary. 
• Certified copies of official academic transcripts in ENGLISH (full transcripts for each tertiary institution attended)
• Certified copies of degree certificates in ENGLISH (for each tertiary institution attended where applicable)
• Applicants from universities situated in non-English speaking countries: TOEFL/IELTS certificate OR letter from previous tertiary institution stating “English as medium of instruction” for the programme
• Curriculum vitae (include work experience)
• A recent score (obtained within 3 - 5 years before application for admission) of at least 570 (paper-based test) or 230 (computer-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• A recent overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• OR, noting that this may only be written at certain designated venues within South Africa, a score of at least 65% on the university's Placement Test in English for Educational Purposes (PTEEP).

Scholarships

• International & refugee scholarships
• Merit awards

The Bachelor of Arts in Historical Studies at the University of Cape Town offers students an in-depth exploration of past events, cultures, and societies from a global and regional perspective. This programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of historical processes that have shaped contemporary society. Students have the opportunity to study a diverse range of historical periods, including ancient civilizations, medieval history, modern history, and contemporary developments. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical approaches and empirical research, enabling students to analyze primary and secondary sources effectively.

Throughout the course, students are encouraged to engage with issues such as social justice, political change, cultural exchanges, and economic transformations. The programme fosters an understanding of historical methodologies, including oral history, archival research, and comparative analysis, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, education, journalism, museums, and cultural heritage management.

The Department of Historical Studies at UCT collaborates with local and international institutions, providing students with opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and participation in seminars and conferences. The programme promotes a critical awareness of different historiographical traditions and encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from anthropology, sociology, political science, and literature.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Historical Studies are equipped with versatile skills such as critical reading, effective communication, and detailed research, all highly valued in various professional fields. The university supports language proficiency, technological literacy, and global perspectives, which further enhance students' academic and career prospects. The programme’s structure allows flexibility for students to specialize in specific regions, themes, or periods of history, tailoring their degrees to their interests and career ambitions. Overall, UCT’s Historical Studies programme aims to produce well-rounded scholars who can analyze, interpret, and contribute meaningfully to understanding the complex tapestry of human history.