History

The Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of New Brunswick Saint John offers students an in-depth exploration of the past, engaging them with a diverse range of historical periods, regions, and themes. This program provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of historical processes and their impact on contemporary society. Students will examine significant historical events, cultural developments, and socio-political transformations through a variety of methodologies, including textual analysis, historiography, and research methods. The program encourages active learning through lectures, seminars, and research projects, fostering independent inquiry and scholarly growth. Throughout their studies, students will have opportunities to specialize in areas such as Canadian history, American history, European history, or global history, tailoring their academic experience to their personal interests and career goals. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding historical contexts to better comprehend current issues and global developments. Graduates of the History program at UNB Saint John will be well-equipped with skills highly valued in numerous fields including education, public history, government, law, journalism, and international relations. The program benefits from the university’s experienced faculty members who are dedicated to providing personalized mentorship and fostering a vibrant academic community. With access to extensive library resources, archives, and research facilities, students are supported in conducting original research and participating in internships or co-curricular activities that enhance practical skills. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of New Brunswick Saint John aims to cultivate knowledgeable, analytical, and culturally aware individuals prepared to make meaningful contributions in their chosen careers and in society.

The Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of New Brunswick Saint John offers students a comprehensive exploration of key historical periods, regions, and themes, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of human societies. The program emphasizes the development of research abilities through rigorous coursework, engaging students in analyzing primary and secondary sources, and crafting compelling historical arguments. Students will have the opportunity to study a diverse array of topics, including ancient civilizations, medieval history, modern political movements, social transformations, and cultural developments across different geographic areas such as North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to examine historical narratives critically, question assumptions, and develop insights into the impact of historical events on contemporary issues. The curriculum combines core courses in historical methods and theories with specialized courses allowing students to tailor their education to their interests, whether in political history, social history, economic history, or cultural studies. Practical skills such as historiography, archival research, and oral history are integrated into the program, preparing graduates for careers in education, research, publishing, museums, public history, and other fields requiring strong analytical and communication skills.

In addition to classroom instruction, students are encouraged to participate in internships, community projects, and study abroad opportunities, broadening their perspectives and gaining real-world experience. Faculty members are dedicated to mentoring students and providing personalized guidance to help them succeed academically and professionally. With a balanced combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application, the Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of New Brunswick Saint John equips graduates with the critical tools needed for lifelong learning, informed citizenship, and various professional pursuits related to history and the humanities.

The Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of New Brunswick Saint John requires students to complete a minimum of 120 credit hours over the course of the program. Students must select a combination of core courses, electives within the field of history, and possibly some cross-disciplinary courses to fulfill the degree requirements. The program emphasizes developing skills in critical thinking, research, and written and verbal communication through the study of historical events, themes, and methodologies. Students are encouraged to engage in primary source analysis, historiographical debates, and field-specific research projects. Typically, students start with introductory courses that cover world history, Canadian history, and Western civilization, progressing to more specialized courses such as Modern European History, North American History, and thematic courses like History of War or Social Movements. In addition to coursework, students may be required to participate in seminars, complete a senior thesis or capstone project, and undertake an internship or co-op placement if available. The program also promotes interdisciplinary learning by allowing students to choose electives from related disciplines such as Political Science, Sociology, or Anthropology. To graduate, students must maintain an acceptable academic standing, complete all required courses with a passing grade, and fulfill any additional university-wide graduation requirements such as a citizenship or community service component. The program prepares students for diverse careers, including education, research, public history, government service, and further academic study.

The University of New Brunswick - Saint John offers various funding options for students pursuing a degree in History. Financial aid packages may include government-sponsored student loans, bursaries, scholarships, and awards based on academic achievement, financial need, or other criteria. The university provides entrance scholarships for high-achieving students, which can significantly reduce the cost of education for eligible applicants. Additionally, students are encouraged to apply for external scholarships and grants available through provincial and federal government programs, as well as private organizations. Work-study opportunities may also be available, allowing students to earn income while gaining work experience relevant to their field of study. International students enrolled in the History program can access specific international student scholarships and funding options to support their studies. The university’s financial aid office offers personalized advice and support to help students identify suitable funding sources and complete application processes efficiently. Students are also advised to explore part-time employment opportunities both on and off-campus to supplement their finances during the academic year. Furthermore, some departments and faculty members may offer research assistantships or teaching assistantships, which provide stipends or remuneration for involved students. The cost of attendance, including tuition fees, living expenses, books, and supplies, varies depending on the student’s residency status and course load. The university also provides information on payment plans, which enable students to spread out tuition payments over the semester. International students are often required to demonstrate proof of funds to obtain a student visa, and the university can provide guidance on acceptable funding sources. Overall, students enrolled in the History program at the University of New Brunswick - Saint John are encouraged to proactively seek financial aid opportunities and utilize available resources to support their educational goals.

The Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of New Brunswick – Saint John offers students a comprehensive understanding of diverse historical periods, regions, and themes. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep appreciation for the complexities of human societies over time. Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics, including ancient civilizations, medieval history, modern global events, Canadian history, and world history. The curriculum emphasizes not only the acquisition of factual knowledge but also the development of research and writing skills essential for academic and professional success.

Throughout their studies, students engage in close textual analysis, primary source evaluation, and interpretative writing, preparing them for careers in education, research, public history, government, or the private sector. The program also encourages experiential learning through internships, seminar discussions, and opportunities for undergraduate research projects. Students are supported by faculty members who are active researchers and experienced educators, providing mentorship and guidance tailored to individual academic interests and career goals.

The department promotes a multidisciplinary approach, allowing students to integrate insights from fields such as political science, economics, anthropology, and archaeology. This approach enriches understanding and enables students to analyze historical events within broader social, cultural, and economic contexts. The program also offers elective courses that enable students to tailor their studies according to specific interests in areas like indigenous history, gender studies, military history, or international relations.

Graduates of the History program at UNB Saint John are well-prepared for diverse career paths, including education, archives and museum work, government service, international organizations, journalism, and further graduate studies. The university's active alumni network and career services provide valuable resources for internships, job placement, and graduate school applications. Overall, the History program aims to cultivate a nuanced understanding of the past and its significance to current global challenges, empowering students to become informed, critical, and engaged citizens.