History

The Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of Alberta offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of past events, civilizations, and historical processes that have shaped the modern world. This undergraduate program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical, and research skills through the study of a diverse range of historical periods, regions, and themes. Students will have the opportunity to delve into topics such as ancient civilizations, medieval societies, modern national histories, and global interactions, gaining a broad-based understanding as well as specialized knowledge in areas of personal or academic interest.

The program emphasizes the importance of historical methodologies, encouraging students to analyze primary sources, interpret different perspectives, and construct well-supported arguments. Courses are taught by expert faculty members recognized for their research contributions across various fields of history, including Canadian, European, Asian, African, and American histories. In addition to theoretical coursework, students will be engaged in research projects, discussions, and presentations that foster communication skills and scholarly inquiry.

Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in History are encouraged to develop a flexible and interdisciplinary approach, often incorporating insights from fields such as politics, sociology, anthropology, and literature. The program also offers opportunities for students to participate in internships, study abroad programs, and collaborative research initiatives, thereby enriching their educational experience and preparing them for careers in education, public history, government, law, journalism, and more.

Graduates of the program will be equipped with a nuanced understanding of historical context, a critical awareness of diverse perspectives, and the ability to analyze complex issues—skills highly valued in many professional settings. The University of Alberta’s Department of History provides a supportive academic environment, with access to extensive resources, archives, and libraries to aid students throughout their academic journey. Whether pursuing further studies or entering the workforce, graduates of this program will possess a solid foundation in historical knowledge and interpretive skills essential for understanding our continually evolving global society.

The Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of Alberta offers students an in-depth exploration of human past across different time periods, regions, and cultures. The program aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of historical processes that have shaped societies worldwide. Students will engage with a broad range of historical themes, including political developments, social movements, economic changes, cultural transformations, and technological advancements. The curriculum combines core courses in historical theory and methodology with specialized topics that allow students to focus on particular geographic areas such as European, North American, Asian, African, and Latin American histories.

Throughout the program, students will undertake critical analysis of primary and secondary sources, enhancing their research capacities and interpretative abilities. They will learn how to construct coherent historical arguments and communicate their findings effectively through written assignments, presentations, and discussions. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding historical context and diverse perspectives, encouraging students to appreciate the complexity of historical events and debates.

In addition to coursework, students have opportunities for experiential learning through internships, research projects, and community engagement activities. The program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers, including education, policy analysis, archival work, museum curation, journalism, and further academic study. The university also supports students with access to extensive library resources, research centers, and expert faculty members renowned for their contributions to the field of history. By completing this program, students gain a nuanced understanding of the past, equipping them with skills essential for informed citizenship and lifelong learning.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of Alberta include completion of a minimum of 120 undergraduate credits, which typically involves taking core courses in history as well as electives. Students must complete at least 30 credits in History courses, including both lower-division (100- and 200-level) and upper-division (300- and 400-level) courses. A foundational course in historical methods and perspectives is mandatory, designed to develop research and analytical skills necessary for historical inquiry. Students are encouraged to participate in seminars, which foster discussion and critical thinking, and may have opportunities for undergraduate research projects. Language proficiency requirements vary depending on the specialization; students interested in historical studies that involve non-English sources may need to demonstrate proficiency in relevant languages. The program offers different specializations, including Canadian history, European history, World history, and Ancient history, allowing students to tailor their coursework to their interests. Capstone projects, such as a research paper or thesis, are often part of the upper-division requirements to demonstrate mastery of historical analysis and research methods. Students are advised to consult academic advisors regularly to ensure all credit and coursework requirements are fulfilled in accordance with the program guidelines. Internship opportunities, study abroad programs, and participation in history clubs or organizations are highly recommended for practical experience and professional development. To graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in History, students must also meet university-wide general degree requirements, including writing proficiency and residency requirements, which mandate a certain number of courses taken at the University of Alberta.

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 University of Alberta offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in their History undergraduate and graduate programs. Tuition fees vary depending on the level of study, residency status, and specific course load. For domestic students, undergraduate tuition typically ranges from approximately $5,000 to $8,000 CAD per year, while international students may pay between $20,000 and $30,000 CAD annually. Graduate students, including Master's and Ph.D. candidates, often benefit from different fee structures, with Master’s tuition generally being around $8,000 to $12,000 CAD per year for domestic students and up to $20,000 CAD for international students. Additional fees, such as student services, registration, and student association fees, are also applicable and are outlined annually by the university.

Funding opportunities for students in the History program include scholarships, bursaries, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and fellowships. Undergraduate students are encouraged to apply for merit-based scholarships such as the Entrance Scholarships and the University of Alberta Undergraduate Scholarships, which reward academic excellence and leadership qualities. Bursaries are available for students demonstrating financial need, ensuring broader access to education. Graduate students pursuing research in history can access funding through faculty-specific awards, national research grants, or university-wide fellowships, like the University of Alberta Graduate Awards.

In addition to institutional funding, students can explore external sources such as government scholarships, private foundations, and industry-specific grants. The university’s financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance and assistance in applying for these programs. Students are also encouraged to seek part-time work opportunities on campus, which can help offset living expenses and enhance their academic experience. International students should consider additional funding sources available through international scholarship programs and special financial aid options designed to support their study abroad endeavors.

Living expenses are an important consideration in financing studies; estimated costs for accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses in Edmonton can range from $15,000 to $20,000 CAD annually. Students are advised to create a detailed budget plan and explore all financial aid options well in advance of their studies. The university maintains partnerships with various employers and community organizations that offer work-study programs, internships, and cooperative education opportunities to support practical experience and financial stability throughout the duration of the program.

Overall, financing a degree in History at the University of Alberta is facilitated through a combination of university-provided scholarships, government assistance, external funding sources, and personal or family savings. The university’s commitment to accessible education is reflected in its diverse funding mechanisms aimed at supporting students academically, financially, and professionally throughout their studies.

The Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of Alberta offers students an in-depth exploration of human history, emphasizing critical thinking, analytical skills, and comprehensive understanding of past events and their impact on contemporary society. This program provides a diverse curriculum that covers various regions and time periods, enabling students to develop a well-rounded perspective on global history. Students have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of historical topics, including ancient civilizations, modern history, social movements, economic developments, and cultural transformations. The program encourages research, writing, and interpretative skills, preparing graduates for careers in education, research, government, journalism, and other fields where analytical and communication competencies are valued. Faculty members are distinguished scholars committed to innovative teaching and research, ensuring students receive a high-quality education grounded in the latest historical methodologies. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to participate in seminars, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities that enhance their understanding and employability. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from archaeology, anthropology, political science, and economics to enrich the understanding of historical processes. Students are supported by dedicated academic advisors who assist with course selection, career planning, and research projects. The Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of Alberta aims to develop informed, critical, and culturally aware citizens equipped to analyze complex issues and contribute thoughtfully to society.