History

The Bachelor of Arts in History at Saint Mary's University offers students an in-depth exploration of the past, providing a comprehensive understanding of key historical events, movements, and figures from around the world. This program is designed to develop students’ critical thinking, analytical skills, and research capabilities through engaging coursework and immersive learning experiences. Throughout the degree, students will examine diverse historical periods, from ancient civilizations to contemporary history, gaining insights into societal, political, economic, and cultural developments that have shaped the modern world.

The curriculum emphasizes a variety of historical methodologies, encouraging students to evaluate sources critically and construct well-supported arguments. Students will have opportunities to specialize in areas such as North American history, European history, world history, or thematic studies, allowing them to tailor their academic experience to their interests and career goals. The program also integrates opportunities for experiential learning, including internships, research projects, and fieldwork, fostering practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.

Graduates of this program will be well-equipped for careers in education, government, public history, archival work, journalism, and beyond. They will also acquire the foundational skills necessary for further academic pursuits, such as graduate studies in history or related disciplines. Saint Mary's University’s dedicated faculty members are committed to providing personalized mentorship and fostering a supportive learning environment that encourages intellectual growth and curiosity. By pursuing the Bachelor of Arts in History, students will gain a nuanced understanding of the complexities of the past, enabling them to critically assess contemporary issues and contribute meaningfully to society.

The Bachelor of Arts in History at Saint Mary's University offers students a comprehensive exploration of the past, equipping them with critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of historical developments across different periods and regions. The program is designed to provide a broad foundation in history, covering areas such as ancient civilizations, medieval history, modern history, and contemporary global issues. Students will engage with primary sources, develop research methodologies, and analyze historical documents, fostering an ability to interpret and evaluate complex information. The curriculum includes courses in Western and non-Western history, encouraging a diverse and inclusive perspective on world events. In addition to core courses, students can choose from a variety of electives that align with their interests, such as Canadian history, European history, Asian history, Middle Eastern studies, and history of science and technology.

Throughout the program, students will gain essential skills in writing, argumentation, and scholarly research, preparing them for careers in education, public history, archival work, government, journalism, and other fields where an understanding of history is valuable. The program emphasizes critical analysis of historical sources and the development of a nuanced understanding of how historical narratives shape contemporary society. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, research projects, and study abroad opportunities to enhance their practical experience and global awareness.

Faculty members are dedicated to providing personalized mentorship and fostering an engaging learning environment. They are active researchers in their fields, bringing current scholarship into their teaching. The History program at Saint Mary's University aims to cultivate informed, analytical, and globally-minded individuals who are prepared to contribute thoughtfully to society. Graduates of this program will possess a thorough knowledge of historical processes and a versatile skill set that opens doors to diverse professional paths.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in History at Saint Mary's University include a combination of foundational courses, advanced seminars, and complementary general education requirements. Students must complete a minimum of 120 credit hours to graduate. The core curriculum begins with introductory courses such as HIST 101 - World Civilizations I and HIST 102 - World Civilizations II, which provide a broad overview of global historical developments. Following these, students are encouraged to select from a range of specialized electives, including courses in European, Asian, African, Latin American, and North American history, allowing for regional and thematic focus areas.

To develop analytical and research skills, students are required to take HIST 200 - Historical Methods and HIST 210 - Research Seminar, where they learn historiographical approaches and primary source analysis. Engagement with original historical texts and documents is emphasized throughout the program. Students must also complete a senior thesis or comprehensive exam, demonstrating mastery of their chosen specialization within the field.

In addition to history courses, students are expected to fulfill general education requirements in areas such as English, social sciences, and humanities, fostering interdisciplinary understanding. Language proficiency, either in a second language or through relevant coursework, is strongly recommended to enhance comparative and international perspectives. Internships and experiential learning opportunities are available and encouraged for credit, providing practical experience in museums, archives, and research institutions.

Graduate-level students pursuing honors may be required to undertake additional coursework and research projects. All students are advised to consult their academic advisors regularly to ensure they meet prerequisites and to tailor their academic plans to meet degree completion requirements. Overall, the program aims to cultivate critical thinking, analytical writing, and well-rounded historical understanding, preparing graduates for careers in education, research, public history, and various fields requiring historical literacy.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the History degree program at Saint Mary's University is structured to provide students with a range of financial aid options and support mechanisms to facilitate their academic pursuits. Undergraduate students enrolled in the History program have access to federal and provincial government funding programs, including student loans, grants, and bursaries designed to reduce the financial burden of higher education. The university participates in federal loan programs such as the Canada Student Loans Program (CSLP), which offers low-interest loans to eligible students based on financial need. Additionally, students may qualify for provincial assistance through the Nova Scotia Student Assistance Program (NSSAP), providing grants and repayment assistance during and after their studies.

Saint Mary's University also offers various internal scholarships and bursaries specifically targeted at History students, recognizing academic excellence and financial need. These awards are merit-based and range from partial tuition reductions to full-ride scholarships, often renewable annually contingent upon academic performance. Students are encouraged to apply early and complete the necessary financial aid documentation to maximize their eligibility.

Moreover, the university supports students in securing external scholarships, awards, and sponsorships from community organizations, private foundations, and industry partners. Examples include national and regional scholarships geared toward students pursuing humanities and social sciences degrees. The university’s Financial Aid Office provides comprehensive guidance, including workshops and personalized consultations, to help students identify funding opportunities and navigate the application process.

For students interested in gaining practical experience while studying, part-time work opportunities are available through campus employment programs and co-op placements. These positions allow students to earn income and gain relevant skills while balancing their academic commitments. Saint Mary's University also emphasizes budgeting and financial planning resources to help students manage their expenses effectively throughout their studies.

International students pursuing a History degree are considered for specific scholarships and may also explore additional financial aid options available for international applicants. The university advocates for proactive financial planning from the outset of the academic journey to ensure students can sustain their educational and living expenses without undue hardship.

Overall, the financing of the History program at Saint Mary's University is comprehensive and designed to support diverse student needs through a combination of government aid, university-funded awards, external scholarships, work opportunities, and financial planning resources, helping students to focus on achieving their academic and career goals in the field of history.

The Bachelor of Arts in History at Saint Mary's University offers students an in-depth exploration of the past, encompassing various eras, regions, and themes. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of historical processes and their impact on present-day society. Students will engage with diverse historical periods, including ancient, medieval, modern, and contemporary history, gaining knowledge of major events, movements, and figures that have shaped the world. The curriculum includes a mix of core courses and electives, allowing students to focus on specific areas such as Canadian history, North American history, European history, Asian history, or world history, depending on their interests.

Throughout the program, emphasis is placed on research skills, critical analysis of sources, and effective communication. Students will learn to interpret primary documents, utilize archives and digital resources, and craft well-argued historical essays and papers. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, drawing insights from sociology, political science, economics, and cultural studies to enhance understanding of historical contexts.

Saint Mary’s University’s Department of History provides a supportive academic environment with experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields. Students have access to seminars, workshops, and internships that prepare them for careers in education, research, government, law, journalism, and other fields requiring strong analytical and writing skills. The program aims to produce well-rounded graduates equipped with a nuanced understanding of the past and its relevance to contemporary issues. Enrollees benefit from small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and opportunities for community engagement through local history projects and public history initiatives. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in History at Saint Mary’s University prepares students for graduate studies or diverse professional pathways by fostering a critical appreciation of historical complexities and the development of essential transferable skills.